Related Experiment Videos
[Scanning electron microscopy of the chick embryo mesonephros]
Abstract:
The mesonephros of chick embryos from the 7th to the 15th day of incubation has been studied by scanning electron microscope. The material was submitted to the common techniques for scanning electron microscopy using a special fixing agent that does not damage the embryonic tissue (Litke e Low, 1977). At the 7th day of incubation, the mesonephric corpuscles show a capsule whose parietal lamina is formed by flattened cells, while the visceral lamina already shows podocytes provided with pedicels interdigitating around the capillary loops. In the same period the proximal tubules appear to be bounded by columnar cells with long and thick apical microvilli. The Henle's loop is lined by low cells with slightly dome-shaped apices provided with single cilium. The distal convoluted tubules are lined by a low columnar epithelium. The cell apices show microvilli shorter and more rare than those found in the proximal portion. This pattern is present till the 12th day of incubation, when regression phenomena occur. These are mainly represented by a progressive occlusion of the tubules and a gradual alteration of the podocytes.
Insights
Scanning electron microscopy reveals chick embryo mesonephros development. From day 7 to 12, distinct cell structures form, followed by tubule occlusion and podocyte alteration by day 15.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Renal Physiology
- Electron Microscopy
Context:
- The mesonephros, an embryonic kidney, plays a crucial role in early development.
- Understanding its structural changes is key to comprehending kidney formation.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) provides high-resolution imaging of delicate embryonic tissues.
Purpose:
- To investigate the morphological development of the chick embryo mesonephros.
- To document cellular changes in mesonephric tubules and corpuscles during incubation.
- To identify the timing and nature of mesonephric regression phenomena.
Summary:
- SEM analysis of chick embryo mesonephros (days 7-15) revealed distinct cellular morphologies.
- Early stages (day 7) show differentiated podocytes and proximal tubule cells with prominent microvilli.
- Regression begins around day 12, characterized by tubule occlusion and podocyte alterations.
Impact:
- Provides detailed ultrastructural insights into avian mesonephros development and regression.
- Establishes a developmental timeline for key mesonephric cellular components.
- Offers a foundation for further research into kidney development and potential congenital anomalies.