Ultrastructure of neurosecretory cells in the pars intercerebralis of Rhodnius prolixus (Hemiptera)

Abstract

Six neuron types are distinguished in the pars intercerebralis of the starved fifth instar of Rhodnius prolixus. All neuron types contain electron dense secretory granules derived from Golgi complexes which are of characteristic size and morphology in each type. The neuron types are not thought to represent stages in a secretory cycle. The variety of neuron types described is related to that revealed by staining sections of the same cells with paraldehyde fuchsin. Active synthesis of neurosecretory granules continues throughout starvation and the lysosomal system appears to be involved in the continual degradation of secretory granules. Some of the variations in granule morphology observed may be a consequence of granule fusion and the importance of cytoplasmic events in the development of neurosecretory granules is discussed.