ISSN:
1432-0878
Keywords:
Central neuropile
;
Planorbis corneus
;
Synapses
;
Spinule complexes
;
Varicosities
;
Electron microscopy
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Summary The neuropile in the central ganglia of Planorbis corneus was studied by electron microscopy, using different fixatives. Several types of specialization were observed in the membranes of adjacent axonal processes, varying from only slight membrane thickenings to structures resembling desmosomes. Specialized structures similar to the ‘spinule complexes’ in mammalian brain are widely distributed in certain areas of neuropile. They consist of a small projection which invaginates a neighbouring neurone; the membranes are closely apposed and there is associated electron-dense material. The problem of identifying chemical synapses in this tissue is discussed. Many axonal processes are varicose, and it is suggested that varicosities may also be sites of transmitter release.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00218593
