Fine structural studies on the thyroid gland of the normal domestic fowl.

The ultrastructure of the thyroid gland of the domestic fowl has been investigated and found to be similar to that of mammals. The differences were found at subcellular level in the distribution of the "dark bodies" which were mainly apical and in the sizes of primary lysosomes. These were found to range from 100 to 500 nm in diameter. All organelles described in mammals as being concerned with the production of thyroglobulin and the two hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine were found to be present.

The general ultrastructure of the carotid body of the domestic fowl.

Electron microscopic studies of the carotid body of the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus domesticus) have shown Type I and Type II cells combined with axons into compact groups. The many Type I cells in the depths of the organ had a body, containing the nucleus, and an elongated, flared process. Some of the Type I cells in the superficial regions tended to be spindle-shaped. Type I cells were characterised by membrane-bound, dense-cored vesicles about 120 nm in diameter. Type II cells invested the Type I cells and had axons embedded in them as in Schwann cells. The fine structure of the carotid body in the domestic fowl resembles that of the Lovebird (Uroloncha domestica) and of various amphibia and mammals. The possibility is discussed that the Type I cells may have a chemoreceptor or a general secretory function, or even both of these axons leading to or from Type I cells. The main role of the Type II cells seems to be to provide a pathway for functions together.