ULTRASTRUCTURE OF HUMAN UMBILICAL ARTERIES FROM NEWBORN CHILDREN OF SMOKING AND NON‐SMOKING MOTHERS

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Abstract
Ultrastructure of human umbilical arteries from 9 smokers and 14 nonsmokers was studied. A double blind technique was used to separate the 2 groups. The study revealed the following morphological characteristics: in nonsmokers presence of mononuclear cells beneath the endothelial lining; in smokers a marked distension of the rough endoplasmic reticulum and a marked increase in number of mitochondria in the endothelial cells. The smooth muscle cells had accumulated glycogen and lipid. In the arteries of the smokers there were morphological signs which could be interpreted as an increased cell turnover within both the intima and media, increased basement membrane material and increased amount of glycosaminoglycans; in addition an increased number of lysosomes and phagocytosis were found. Smooth muscle cells were seen covering the luminal surface of the vessel wall.