R-bodies of human rectal epithelial cells

Abstract

Distinctive globular bodies, ranging in diameter from 0.2μ to 1.5μ were encountered in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells of human rectal mucosa. These structures, which are referred to as rod-containing bodies or R-bodies, have been regarded by earlier investigators as representing multivesicular bodies, although closer investigation should have pointed out remarkable differences from these organelles. These profiles, surrounded by a unit membrane, contained a uniform population of electron-dense rods 50 nm wide and 100 to 250 nm long. Although neither the origin nor the relationships of these rod-containing bodies (R-bodies) to other cytoplasmic organelles could be established, morphologic and cytochemical studies demonstrated clear differences from multivesicular bodies.

Publication Title

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine

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