PMID: 1203955Nov 12, 1975Paper

Ultrastructure of the integumental melanophores of the coelacanth, Latimeria chalumnae

Cell and Tissue Research
H I Lamer, W Chavin

Abstract

The integumental melanophores of Latimeria chalumnae were studied by light and electron microscopy. The epidermal melanophore located in the mid-epidermis consists of a round perikaryon with long slender dendrites extending into epidermal cells and intercellular spaces. The dermal melanophores occur in the loose dermal matrix underlying a relatively thick layer of collagen fibers. The dermal melanophores are usually flattened and their dendrites lie parallel to the collagen layer. Both epidermal and dermal melanophores contain oval, electron-opaque melanosomes, large mitochondria, agranular vacuoles of endoplasmic reticulum and microtubules. Microfilaments and RNP particles are less conspicuous. While the peripheral cytoplasm of both dermal and epidermal melanophores is filled with a large number of melanosomes, the perinuclear cytoplasm of many dermal melanophores is occupied by premelanosomes in various stages of differentiation, and that of the epidermal melanophore contains numerous large vacuoles. Despite the scarcity of epidermal melanophores, the epidermal melanin unit is present in the form of melanosome complexes. In addition, the melanophores of Latimeria possess the basic characteristics common to other vertebrates, ...Continue Reading

Citations

Feb 5, 2021·International Journal of Molecular Sciences·Sumali PandeyBrian D Wisenden

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