ISSN:
1432-0878
Keywords:
Ovary
;
Blue fox
;
Lutein cells
;
Plasma progesterone
;
Ultrastructure
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Summary An electron microscopic investigation of the lutein cells of the blue fox was undertaken, based on the hypothesis that differences in plasma progesterone levels at differing stages of pregnancy might be reflected in the ultrastructural organization. Comparisons were made between corpora lutea taken from animals mated 1, 2, 5, 14, 18, 20, 28, 33, 36, 39 and 45 days after the estimated time of ovulation. Measurements of progesterone on plasma samples were performed by a rapid competitive protein-binding assay. During the period with increasing and/or high plasma progesterone levels, (i.e. 1 to 14 days after ovulation) the lutein cells are characterized by evenly distributed cisternal agranular ER, mitochondria with both tubular and lamellar cristae, and electron-dense lipid droplets. The abundant agranular ER is closely associated with the lipid droplets and mitochondria. During the period with declining plasma progesterone levels, the lutein cells present a different morphological picture: the agranular ER assumes the form of bundles of parallel tubules disposed in several planes. During the latest stages observed, these “bundles” are disrupted and most of the agranular ER become arranged in smaller concentric whorls. Both kinds of whorls regularly enclose lipid droplets, dense bodies and mitochondria. The regions between the whorls contain scattered cisternae of endoplasmic reticulum, ribosomes, mitochondria and lysosome-like dense bodies.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00209050
