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Globoid structures in the cytoplasm of rapidly growing HeLa cells

A HAMLIN, C G HARFORD, E PARKER

    The Journal of Biophysical and Biochemical Cytology
    |July 25, 1956
    PubMed

    Insights

    Electron microscopy revealed numerous globoid bodies in the cytoplasm of rapidly growing HeLa cells. These structures are suspected to be mitochondria based on morphological evidence.

    Area of Science:

    • Cell Biology
    • Microscopy

    Background:

    • HeLa cells are a widely used human cell line in biological research.
    • Mitochondria are essential organelles responsible for cellular respiration.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the ultrastructure of rapidly growing uninfected HeLa cells.
    • To identify and characterize novel cytoplasmic structures observed during electron microscopy.

    Main Methods:

    • Transmission electron microscopy was employed to examine HeLa cell ultrastructure.
    • Morphological analysis of cytoplasmic inclusions was performed.

    Main Results:

    • Numerous distinct globoid bodies were consistently observed within the cytoplasm of HeLa cells.
    • The morphology of these globoid bodies suggests a mitochondrial origin.

    Conclusions:

    • The observed globoid bodies in HeLa cells exhibit characteristics consistent with mitochondria.
    • Further studies may be warranted to confirm the identity and function of these structures.
    Keywords:
    MICROSCOPY, ELECTRONNEOPLASMS/pathology

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