The ultrastructure of the parathyroid glands of young cats

Abstract

Abstract The fine structure of the parathyroid glands of normal rapidly growing cats (9–22 weeks of age) was described and compared with the findings reported in other species. The predominating active chief cells were relatively electron‐dense and contained well developed organelles and frequent secretory granules. Inactive chief cells were slightly larger and had a more electron‐transparent cytoplasm. Cytoplasmic organelles were less well developed and secretory granules were less frequent than in the active chief cells. Oxyphil cells or transitional forms were not identified in the parathyroid glands of kittens. Occasional cilia were observed in chief cells. They arose near centrioles and protruded from the plasma membrane into the intercellular space.