Fine structure of the blastema in the regenerating tail of the lizard Podarcis sicula

Abstract

The ultrastructure of blastema cells in the regenerating tail of the lizard Podarcis sicula was observed under the electron microscope. The cells were collected in the area immediately subjacent to the epidermic tissue of the regeneration cone, apparently homogeneous, where mesenchymal fibroblasts, hematogenous cells, macrophages, melanophores and some giant cells were observed. The ultrastructure of the mesenchymal cells of lizard appears to be remarkably simple and similar to that observed in regenerating tissues of amphibians and planarians. Their endoplasmic reticulum, more developed in the tip of the blastema, appears as developed as that found in regenerating adult amphibians and more developed than that of regenerating larval amphibians and planarians.

Key words:

• Fine structure
• Blastema cells
• Lizard regeneration