Surface morphology of macrophages in the regressing corpus luteum, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy

Activated macrophages phagocytize moribund luteal cells and thus play a central role in the postpartum regression of corpora lutea in guinea pigs (Paavola, '79). When viewed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), these luteal macrophages exhibit many surface protrusions. To characterize more fully the nature and extent of these evaginations, as well as to gain further understanding of phagocytes in their natural surroundings, luteal macrophages were studied in situ by scanning electron microscopy of regressing corpora lutea. Correlated TEM was carried out to confirm the identity of the various cell types. Even in low power scanning electron micrographs, macrophages are consipicuous, and can be readily distinguished from luteal cells by their surface topography. Luteal cell surfaces bear low ridge-like folds and sparse microvilli. In contrast, macrophages characteristically exhibit highly developed surface projections, the most common of which are knob-like or clubbed processes of varying size and shape. Other distinctive surface modifications displayed by luteal macrophages include long, slender filopodia, and well developed pseudopodia. These processes generally have an uneven distribution over the cell; thus, luteal macrophages may appear polarized with regard to surface activity. Both filopodia and pseudopodia occur in close contact with luteal cell surfaces. In addition, occasional luteal macrophages have surfaces that are covered with large, crater-like depressions. The phagocytosis of cells and cellular debris by macrophages was also observed. In summary, the highly pleomorphic surface activity of luteal macrophages appears to be correlated with their role in the removal of senescent luteal cells.