Fine structure of the endolymphatic duct in the rat. A scanning and transmission electron microscopy study.
To investigate the surface morphology of the endolymphatic duct epithelium, 8 rats were vascularly perfused with glutaraldehyde in a buffered and oxygenated blood substitute. Optimal preservation of the epithelium for scanning electron microscopy was attained by coating of the specimens with OsO4 and thiocarbohydrazide followed by a continuous dehydration procedure. Three types of cells were identified with the scanning electron microscope: A polygonal and oblong epithelial cell was observed in the largest number throughout the duct, whereas in the juxta-saccular half of the duct two additional types of epithelial cells were observed. The scanning electron microscopical observations are compared and discussed with reference to transmission electron microscopical observations of the endolymphatic duct.
Qvortrup
K
K
Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Rostgaard
J
J
Bretlau
P
P
D000818:Animals; D007758:Ear, Inner / Q000166:cytology* / Q000502:physiology; D004711:Endolymphatic Duct / Q000166:cytology* / Q000502:physiology; D004847:Epithelial Cells; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D051381:Rats; D017208:Rats, Wistar / Q000502:physiology*