SUBMICROSCOPIC ORGANIZATION OF OTIC GANGLION OF ADULT RABBIT

The ultrastructural organization of the otic ganglion of the adult rabbit has been examined. In addition to a description of the basic characteristics of the neuron and its associated satellite cell, there is presented evidence that suggests an intensive metabolic relationship between these two cell types. This evidence consists of the presence of numerous pinocytotic vesicles in the satellite cell cytoplasm near the neuron and the frequent existence of junctional complexes between nerve and satellite cell. Also noted was the occurrence of two types of neurons somewhat similar to the clear" and "dark" cells previously described. These two cell types are distinguishable on the basis of the organization and amount of endoplasmic reticulum. The great majority of nerve endings are axodendritic in contrast to the exclusive presence of axosomatic terminations described in chick ciliary ganglion. Axodendritic contacts were found between preganglionic axons and medium and especially small dendritic branches. © 1969 Springer-Verlag."