Neuritic plaque-like structures in the rat cerebellum following prolonged alcohol consumpotion

Summary Primitive neuritic plaques were observed in the inner third of the molecular layer of the cerebellar cortex of rats following chronic alcohol consumption. Neurites were indentified as dystrophic parallel fiber bouton. Amyloid material dispersed among neurites was not clearly recognized, dystrophic some fibrils were frequently seen among them. Astrocytic processes were noted in the periphery of the plaque. Microglial reaction, however, was non-existent. The rarity of these lesions in the rat cerebellum and their probable relation to long periods of alcohol consumption is discussed.This work was granted by I.N.I.C., project MbPl, and Stiftung Volkswagenwerk, project I/37424.     

Neuritic plaque-like structures in the rat cerebellum following prolonged alcohol consumption

Primitive neuritic plaques were observed in the inner third of the molecular layer of the cerebellar cortex of rats following chronic alcohol consumption. Neurites were identified as dystrophic parallel fiber boutons. Amyloid material dispersed among neurites was not clearly recognized, dystrophic some fibrils were frequently seen among them. Astrocytic processes were noted in the periphery of the plaque. Microglial reaction, however, was non-existent. The rarity of these lesions in the rat cerebellum and their probable relation to long periods of alcohol consumption is discussed.     

Cilia in stellate neurons of the rat cerebellum

Summary Cilia in stellate neurons of the normal rat cerebellum are described. 8 cilia were observed in a total of 60 cells studied. An 8+1 pattern was found throughout their length. Furthermore, no arms, spokes or other accessory structures necessary for ciliary motion were seen. These findings make it possible to suggest that these cilia are probably without function and are related to the epithelial origin of these cells.This work was granted by INIC: Centro de Morfologia Experimental (MbP₁).Acknowledgments. The authors thank M.A. Rodrigues, M. M. Pacheco, M. C.Pinho and L. B. Nunes for technical assistance.