Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Fate Mapping of Human Embryonic Stem Cells by Teratoma Formation
Published on: August 1, 2010
The ultrastructure of the nervous tissue in a benign teratoma
Abstract:
The ultrastructure of the nervous tissue in a benign ovarian teratoma is described. This tissue was organized into areas having both "meningeal" and "ependymal" surfaces, between which were found astrocytes, ependymal cells, neurones with synapses and microglia. These cells all had ultrastructural similarities to their normal counterparts in the nervous system. In addition, some signs of degenerative change--due possibly to the abnormal location of the nervous tissue--were observed. Oligodendrocytes and myelin were absent, possibly because of vascular insufficiency.
Related Concept Videos
Tissues
Neurulation
Spinal Cord: Cross-sectional Anatomy
Gray Matter and its Components
Central to the gray matter is...
Peripheral Nervous System: Ganglia and Nerves
Nerves
The nerve is a bundle of axons that serves as the communication highway in the PNS. Each nerve is ensheathed in a protective layer of connective tissue called the epineurium. This outermost layer safeguards the nerve and supports the...

