Related Experiment Videos
Peculiar ultrastructural features in the cytoplasm of cells from human effusions associated with malignant disease
Abstract:
A peculiar structure revealed by the electron microscope in a few cells from two human pleural fluids, showing the morphologic features of metastasizing cancer cells in effusions, is described. It has the appearance of a rod-shaped pentalaminary structure approximately 25-35 nm thick formed by an outer double membrane, surrounding a central, more dense axis showing transverse striations at about 10-nm intervals. The double membrane often exhibits a terminal expansion connected with the endoplasmic reticulum and it is sometimes associated with microfilaments. These structures could be a variant of or represent a step in the formation of confronting cisternae, but the periodic striations they show in the more dense lamella give them some resemblance to a Langerhan's cell granule. To date, such striations have not been seen in confronting cisternae.
Insights
Electron microscopy revealed unique rod-shaped structures in human cancer cells. These structures, resembling pentalaminary formations, may represent a novel cellular component or a stage in organelle development.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Electron Microscopy
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Metastatic cancer cells in human pleural effusions present unique ultrastructural features.
- Understanding these features can provide insights into cancer cell biology and metastasis.
Observation:
- A peculiar rod-shaped pentalaminary structure was observed via electron microscopy in cancer cells from human pleural effusions.
- This structure measures 25-35 nm in thickness, featuring a double membrane and a striated central axis.
Findings:
- The observed structure exhibits a double membrane, sometimes connected to the endoplasmic reticulum and associated with microfilaments.
- Periodic striations (approx. 10-nm intervals) in the central axis distinguish it from typical confronting cisternae.
- Morphological similarities to Langerhan's cell granules were noted, but striations are a unique feature.
Implications:
- These findings suggest a potential novel cellular structure or a transitional form in the development of confronting cisternae.
- The unique morphology may offer new avenues for investigating cancer cell ultrastructure and metastatic processes.
- Further research is needed to fully characterize these structures and their functional significance in cancer cells.