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The microfibrils of connective tissue: I. Ultrastructure
The American Journal of Anatomy
|June 1, 1986
Summary
Ultrastructure analysis reveals two types of connective tissue microfibrils in mouse eye and foot pad. Typical microfibrils have a distinct tubule and surface band, while atypical ones show degradation.
Area of Science:
- Connective tissue ultrastructure
- Cell biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Connective tissue microfibrils are essential structural components.
- Understanding their ultrastructure is key to comprehending tissue integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the detailed ultrastructure of connective tissue microfibrils.
- To classify and differentiate microfibril types based on morphology.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy of mouse ciliary zonule and foot pad.
- Glutaraldehyde fixation for ultrastructural preservation.
- High-magnification imaging for detailed analysis.
Main Results:
- Two microfibril categories identified: typical and atypical.
- Typical microfibrils exhibit a pentagonal-walled tubule with a spherule and a helical surface band with spikes.
- Atypical microfibrils are irregular, lack a clear tubule, and are likely proteolyzed.
Conclusions:
- The surface band likely stabilizes the tubular segments of typical microfibrils.
- Atypical microfibrils represent a degraded form of typical microfibrils, possibly due to proteolysis.