The cytoskeleton of the cynomolgus monkey trabecular cell. I. General considerations.

Many cellular functions involve the complex network of actin filaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments collectively known as the cytoskeleton. Stereo transmission electron microscopic observations of whole cynomolgus monkey trabecular cells, which were extracted, S-1 labeled, and critical-point dried, were employed to simultaneously identify these three major cytoskeletal systems and visualize their three-dimensional nature. A double fluorescence technique for actin and microtubules was used to provide a broad view of cytoskeletal relationships within the cell. Actin microfilaments were the most prominent elements of the cytoskeleton. They appeared as bundles in stress fibers. Between stress fiber bundles, a continuous meshwork of microfilaments and intermediate filaments could be seen. Numerous microtubules radiated from the centriole region to the cell periphery. This comprehensive overview of the cytoskeleton of the cynomolgus monkey trabecular cell can be used to understand structure-function relationships of the trabecular cell cytoskeleton and its influence on outflow facility.