The Fine Structure of the Desmosomes in Frog Mesothelium

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Specialized attachment structures or desmosomes similar to those described in epidermal tissue have been observed occupying a portion of the mutual contact surface of mesothelial cells of the adult frog Rana pipiens. These desmosomes consist of local thickenings of the apposing plasma membranes, accumulations of dense material on the inner aspect of the thickened area of the cell membranes, and tufts of fine filaments radiating from the dense material into the cytoplasm. The desmosomes of frog mesothelial cells are considered to be arranged in belts completely encircling each cell.