An electron microscopic study of the trigeminal ganglion of the rat poisoned by plasmocide

Abstract

Plasmocide (8-[3-diethylaminopropylamino]-6-methoxy-quinoline) is known to have both a neurotoxic and myotoxic action. Plasmocide was given to adult albino rats by the intrapertoneal route. The trigeminal ganglia were examined 12, 24, and 48 hours later. Focal degeneration occurred in both neurons and axons. The changes in the axons were similar to those seen in wallerian degeneration, with an accumulation of altered mitochondria, vesicles, and dense bodies and finally only granular debris. Cytoplasm of neurons showed a loss of Nissl substance and marked swelling of mitochondria. Schwann cells showed an increase in intracytoplasmic vesicles and osmiophilic debris. Interestingly, many neurons remained unaltered.