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Dense granular bodies: a novel nucleoplasmic structure in hibernating dormice
M Tamburini1, M Malatesta, C Zancanaro
1Centre of Electron Microscopy, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
Histochemistry and Cell Biology
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Dense granular bodies (DGB) in hibernating dormice nuclei are temporary structures rich in ribonucleoproteins and RNA processing factors. These DGB rapidly disappear upon arousal, suggesting a role in metabolic regulation during hibernation.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Hibernation Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Dense granular bodies (DGB) are nuclear structures observed in hibernating dormice.
- These structures are found in various tissues including liver, pancreas, and adrenal cortex.
- DGB are transient, appearing only during deep hibernation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the composition and function of Dense Granular Bodies (DGB) in hibernating dormice.
- To understand the role of DGB in cellular processes during hibernation and arousal.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to visualize DGB structure.
- Cytochemical and immunocytochemical analyses identified the molecular components of DGB.
Main Results:
- DGB are electron-dense clusters of granules with peripheral fibrils, located in the nucleoplasm.
- They contain ribonucleoproteins and key RNA processing factors, including splicing factors.
- DGB are present only during deep hibernation and disappear rapidly upon arousal.
Conclusions:
- Dense granular bodies likely serve as temporary storage sites for RNA processing factors.
- These factors are mobilized to splicing sites upon arousal, facilitating rapid metabolic restoration.
- DGB play a crucial role in managing cellular machinery during the extreme metabolic state of hibernation.