Ultrastructural studies on the ventricular surface of the frog cerebellum

Ultrastructural studies of the ventricular surface of the frog cerebellum showed regional differences. In the midline region of the adult cerebellum was found a band of profusely ciliated squamous ependymal cells. In the rest of the cerebellum the ependymal cells were columnar and each had a single cilium. In the cerebellum of the premetamorphic tadpole, the squamous ependymal cells of the midline region also were monociliated. During metamorphosis they gradually became multiciliated. Additionally, supraependymal cells and synaptic elements were present on the ventricular surface of the cerebellum of adult frogs as well as in late metamorphic tadpoles. In contrast, supraependymal cells were rarely observed in premetamorphic tadpoles, and it was concluded that the supraependymal system develops during metamorphosis. It is postulated that the band of cilia may be associated with the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, and supraependymal synaptic elements function in neuroendocrine regulation.