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Processing of cell debris suggestive of phagocytosis in the follicular cavities of the avian adenohypophysis

1982; Academic Press; Volume: 6; Issue: 2 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/0309-1651(82)90092-3

1878-240X

F. Harrisson, J VANHOOF, L. Vakaet,

Nuclear Structure and Function

Abstract The effects of the administration of the biogenic amine precursors L-DOPA and 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan on the ultrastructure of the nongranulated, folliculo-stellate cells of the avian adenohypophysis were investigated in an attempt to approach the function of these cells. The analysis of the ultrastructural changes induced by these compounds revealed that the folliculo-stellate cells can encircle large portions of granulated, hormonogenic cells and, subsequently, phagocytize them. After 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan treatment, junctional complexes appeared between non-granulated and granulated cells. Moreover, a remarkable dark cytoplasm containing autophagic vacuoles was found in some folliculo-stellate cells. In view of the literature, the observations reported here argue in favour of a role in phagocytosis of cell debris and/or of surplus of secretory material, as a result of endocrine dysfunctioning. Nevertheless, the capability of transformation of hormone-producing cells into folliculo-stellate cells has to be considered.