Abstract
Summary
An improved formula for a cacodylate-buffered glutaraldehyde and osmium tetroxide fixative which contains sucrose and magnesium sulfate is described; it provides excellent preservation and visualization of cytoplasmic microtubules in cells of the anterior pituitary gland. The extensive distribution of microtubules in prolactin cells of the rats killed during lactation is illustrated. They occur in close association with mitochondria, secretory granules, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi lamellae, nuclear envelopes and plasma membranes. Although marked alterations in the number or distribution of the microtubules were not seen in relation to alterations in prolactin secretion, it is suggested that quantitative morphometric procedures may be necessary for a reliable evaluation of changes in microtubules.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.