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Tubular arrays in cerebrospinal fluid cells: their location within smooth endoplasmic reticulum cisternae
Abstract:
Unique ultrastructural formations termed tubular arrays have been reported in a variety of renal diseases, viral infections, malignant tumors, and other circumstances. This report describes identical structures in monocytes in the cerebrospinal fluid in a case of pneumococcal meningitis. The occurrence, previously unreported, of tubular arrays in this infection and this kind of cell supports the growing view that tubular arrays probably do not represent viral components, but rather a general reactive phenomenon of the cell. In addition, ultrastructural findings are presented suggesting that tubular arrays appear to be located in the cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum with major involvement of its smooth compartment.
Insights
Tubular arrays, unique cell structures, were found in monocytes during pneumococcal meningitis. This suggests they are a general cell reaction, not viral, and appear in the endoplasmic reticulum.
Area of Science:
- Cellular biology
- Neurology
- Pathology
Background:
- Tubular arrays are unique ultrastructural formations observed in various conditions.
- Previous reports linked them to renal diseases, viral infections, and tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the occurrence of tubular arrays in monocytes within cerebrospinal fluid during pneumococcal meningitis.
- To investigate the cellular location and implications of these structures.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to examine monocytes from cerebrospinal fluid.
- Ultrastructural analysis focused on identifying and characterizing tubular arrays.
Main Results:
- Identical tubular arrays were observed in monocytes in a case of pneumococcal meningitis.
- These structures were found within the cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum, particularly the smooth compartment.
Conclusions:
- The presence of tubular arrays in pneumococcal meningitis supports their role as a general reactive cellular phenomenon.
- Tubular arrays are likely not specific viral components but indicate cellular response.
- Endoplasmic reticulum, especially the smooth compartment, is implicated in the formation of tubular arrays.