Electron microscopic study on the amoeboid microglial cells in the roof plate of the early chick embryo brain
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Published on: May 25, 2016
Abstract:
The amoeboid microglial cells (AM cells), which were acid phosphatase-positive histochemically, present in the rhombencephalon coated with the leptomeninges of the 8--day incubation chick embryos were investigated by electron microscopy. It was found the the AM cells occurred simultaneously in the leptomeninges, in the roof plate, and in the ventricle. Considering the distribution of the cell in these three sites along with the present author's earlier findings of ACPase reactions for the AM cells, it is highly probable that in the rhombencephalon the AM cells originate from the leptomeninges and then enter the ventricle through the roof plate.
Insights
Amoeboid microglial cells (AM cells) in chick embryo rhombencephalon were studied. These acid phosphatase-positive cells likely originate in the leptomeninges and migrate to the ventricle via the roof plate.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Microglia are key immune cells in the central nervous system.
- Understanding microglial origins is crucial for neurodevelopmental research.
- Amoeboid microglial cells (AM cells) are observed in early embryonic development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the origin and distribution of amoeboid microglial cells (AM cells) in the developing chick embryo rhombencephalon.
- To determine the migratory pathway of AM cells within the rhombencephalon.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to examine AM cells in 8-day incubation chick embryos.
- Histochemical staining for acid phosphatase (ACCase) was employed to identify AM cells.
Main Results:
- AM cells were identified as acid phosphatase-positive.
- These cells were found in the leptomeninges, roof plate, and ventricle of the rhombencephalon.
- The distribution suggests a migratory pattern from the leptomeninges to the ventricle.
Conclusions:
- AM cells in the chick embryo rhombencephalon likely originate from the leptomeninges.
- AM cells migrate to the ventricle through the roof plate.
- This study provides insights into early microglial cell development and migration patterns.

