Tubular lysosomes in rat and gerbil pinealocytes

Ultracytochemical demonstration of acid phosphatase (AcPase) in pinealocytes of rat and Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) has revealed an existence of tubular lysosomes (30-200 nm in diameter and more than 5 micron long) in their cytoplasm. The tubular lysosomes arise by bulging from GERL cisternae (Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes) and spread throughout the whole cell body without forming an anastomosing network. Numerous varicosities are characteristic for the tubular lysosomes whose similarity with grumose bodies has lead to conclusion that the vermiculate variety of the latter are almost certainly tubular lysosomes. The role of these organelles is unknown. Their possible engagement in a rapid cytoplasmic remodelling of the pinealocyte body in answer to various stimuli has been discussed.