| Abstract: | A fine structural analysis of fetal mouse ovaries reveals the presence of intercellular bridges between developing oocytes. These bridges, which connect two or more oocytes, are most frequently seen prior to the dictyate stage of meiotic prophase. The intercellular connections are limited by a tri-laminar membrane which is continuous with the oocyte plasmalemma. A characteristic feature of all bridges is the presence of an electron-dense material on the cytoplasmic side of the limiting membrane. Since this dense material is a constant and conspicuous component of the entire bridge, identification of these connections is possible in all planes of section. In cross section, the bridges are usually cylindrical, while in longitudinal section, a variety of configurations are observed. Oocytes connected by intercellular bridges exhibit a highly developed Golgi complex which is frequently localized in the region of the cytoplasmic continuities. Vesicular elements, apparently derived from the Golgi, are routinely observed within the boundaries of the bridges. Other cytoplasmic organelles, including rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum, free ribosomes and mitochondria, are also seen in these bridges. The presence of these vesicles and organelles within intercellular bridges suggests that these connections may provide a means for transfer of organelles and other substances from one oocyte to another. It may be, therefore, that intercellular bridges are important for the nourishment and maturation of certain selected oocytes as well as for the synchronization of meiotic events. |
