Abstract
Thin section and freeze-fracture transmission electron microscopy were used to examine and identify the cytoplasmic and membrane structures in a cell line derived from a melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI). The cultured cells had a uniform appearance after 70 population doublings characterized by long dendritic processes and evidence of melanin production. The cytoplasm contained numerous melanosomes in various stages of development, vesiculated rough endoplasmic reticulum, microfilaments and uncoated as well as coated vesicles. The membrane specializations included caveoli, coated pits, gap junctions, microfilaments, desmosome-like structures and lamellipodia. The ultrastructural appearance of the cultured MNTI cells was similar to features previously seen in electron micrographs of MNTI tumor specimens. However, correlated freeze-fracture and thin section micrographs permitted further identification of structures previously described. The MNTI cell line represents one of the cell types of the tumor and provides an opportunity for further study of the pathogenesis of this rare tumor.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of oral pathology & medicine : official publication of the International Association of Oral Pathologists and the American Academy of Oral Pathology
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
