Uptake of colloidal particles by cells of the caput epididymidis

摘要

AbstractColloidal mercuric sulfide injected into the rete testis adhered to the stereocilia of the epithelial cells and subsequently moved into a highly developed canalicular system in the apical cytoplasm. The canalicular invaginations of the cell surface arising between the stereocilia lead to cytoplasmic vacuoles that concentrate the particulate matter. The limiting membrane of the stereocilia and of the canaliculi and vacuoles is covered by a layer of amorphous material. It is speculated that this may bind particles, molecules, and ions as does an ion exchange resin, and that it may, in this way, act as a carrier in the uptake and transport of substances by cells.