Tridimensional study of the deep cortex of the rat lymph node. III. Morphology of the deep cortex units.

Recently we reported that the deep cortex of the rat lymph node is made up of semi-rounded "units," some of which are partially fused into "complexes." We further found that each unit is centered on the opening(s) of an afferent lymphatic vessel, the topographical organization of the deep cortex of a node correlating with the distribution pattern of the opening(s) of its afferent lymphatic(s). The present study aims to clarify the morphology of the deep cortex unit, particularly with regard to its reticular framework, its lymphatic sinuses, as well as its network of postcapillary venules. For that purpose, we analyzed rat nodes from various locations by way of tridimensional reconstruction. The observations revealed that each unit is formed of a "center" and a "periphery," distinguishable from one another on the basis of their morphological features. The center is nearly devoid of reticular fibers, whereas the periphery exhibits a dense framework of fibers. Moreover, the periphery is the site of concentration of most postcapillary venules of a unit and contains lymphatic sinuses which, peculiarly, are often loaded with small lymphocytes. While both regions are populated mainly by small lymphocytes, the periphery usually contains a lower concentration of these cells than the center. The overall findings support the view that the center is a site of cellular retention and proliferation, whereas the periphery is a site of rapid lymphocyte migration in and out of the unit.