LYSOSOMAL CHANGES IN RAT HEPATIC PARENCHYMAL CELLS AFTER GLUCAGON ADMINISTRATIONI

Abstract

Ultrastructural as well as ultracytochemical observations were made On rat hepatic parenchymal cells after glucagon perfusion (200-600μg/50ml of Krebs-Ringer's bicarbonate solution) via portal vein. The irregularly shaped lysosomes, such as rod-shaped, dumbbell-shaped or the ones with tails, were observed even 5 min after glucagon perfusion. The acid phosphatase ctivity was clearly positive in the matrix of these unusual structures.These irregularly shaped lysosomes were considered to be the sheet-like extensions from the original body of the pre-existing lysosomes. In connection with the presence of the irregularly shaped lysosomes an autophagic process was evident and the double-membraned (inner and outer) autophagolysosomes were frequently observed. Results obtained in the present investigation indicate that the autophagolysosomes are formed by the wrapping mechanism of the irregularly shaped lysosomes in the hepatic parenchymal cells of the rat following glucagon administration.