[Cytochemical localization of concanavalin A binding sites in the peripheral nerve axons of old rats]

Distribution of alpha-D-mannose and alpha-D-glucose residues of glycoconjugates in axons of sciatic nerves of 24-month old rats of Wistar strains was studied by concanavalin-A-ferritin conjugate. In some of axons there were cumulations of ferritin molecules in agglomerates of various size with polarization of the phenomenon at preserved integrity of myelin sheath. In other cases the concentration of a large number of lectin binding sites was established in the region of the degenerating part of myelin sheath, engrossed in the axon cylinder. The changes in the distribution of carbohydrate residues in the axoplasm of some of the fibers are discussed in connection with the occurring axonal atrophy in fibers of peripheral nerves of old rats.