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Electron microscope studies of Fasciola hepatica

I. The ultrastructure and interrelationship of the parenchymal cells

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 April 2009

L. T. Threadgold
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, The Queen's University, Belfast, N. Ireland
S. S. E. Gallagher
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, The Queen's University, Belfast, N. Ireland

Extract

The ultrastructure of the parenchyma and interstitial material and the interrelations between them are described.

The interstitial material, composed of a granular matrix containing fibres, is shown to ramify as a network between parenchymal cells and around organ systems. It is postulated that this structure is a ‘skeleton’.

In certain localized areas the interstitial material between parenchymal cells is absent and at these points adjacent cells are united by attachment plaques (desmosomes) without tonofibrils.

The possible functions of the parenchyma are considered and it is suggested that these cells are responsible not only for secreting the interstitial material, but also store glycogen and act, in the absence of a circulatory system, as a transport system for metabolites and excretory products.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1966

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References

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