Summary
In the enamel organ of rat incisors macrophages are present in the zone of matrix formation, the transitional zone, the enamel maturation and pigmentation zone. The macrophages accumulate adjacent to redifferentiating amelocytes in the transitional zone. The macrophages phagocytize fragments of disintegrating amelocytes.
In addition to the well known complement of organelles the macrophages present an elaborated microtubular system, scattered, thick filaments, a cortical feltwork of thin filaments, and spherical nuclear bodies. The microtubules emanate from “attached” and free pericentriolar satellites and radiate aster-like towards the cell surface or into pseudopods or curve along the nuclear surface for long distances, often related to nuclear constrictions.
It is suggested that the microtubular system plays a prominent role in directional movement of the macrophages. The cortical filaments, if contractile, may create the cytoplasmic flow necessary for the cell motility.
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The authors wish to thank Miss Kirsten Sjøberg for skilled technical assistance and to thank Dr. Russell Ross for his help in improving the English manuscript.
This work was supported by a grant from the Danish State Research Foundation.
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Jessen, H., Moe, H. The fine structure of macrophages in the enamel organ, with special reference to the microtubular system. Z.Zellforsch 126, 466–482 (1972). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00306907
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00306907