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Phi bodies: peroxidatic particles that produce crystalloidal cellular inclusions
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|August 26, 1977
Summary
Unique spindle-shaped particles, termed phi bodies, exhibiting peroxidatic activity were identified in mouse epithelial cells, rat cells, and leukemic leukocytes. These structures form from spherical granules deforming due to extruded crystalloids fragmenting into rods.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Biochemistry
- Pathology
Background:
- Certain cellular structures, including granules, can exhibit unique morphologies and enzymatic activities.
- Investigating these structures aids in understanding cellular processes and potential disease markers.
Observation:
- Unique, spindle-shaped particles (phi bodies) and rod-like structures were observed.
- These particles demonstrated peroxidatic activity.
- They were identified in epithelial cells of normal mice, clofibrate-treated rats, and leukemic leukocytes.
Findings:
- The ellipsoidal shape of phi bodies is attributed to the deformation of spherical granules.
- This deformation is caused by the extrusion of an axial crystalloid.
- The extruded crystalloid subsequently fragments into rod-like structures.
Implications:
- The findings provide insights into the biogenesis and morphology of specific cellular particles.
- Understanding phi bodies and rods may contribute to diagnostics or understanding of cellular stress responses.
- Further research could explore the functional significance of peroxidatic activity in these structures.