The Popular Science Monthly, October, 1900: Vol. 57, May, 1900 to October, 1900Various
History
The Popular Science Monthly, October, 1900: Vol. 57, May, 1900 to October, 1900
Various
Science -- Periodicals; Technology -- Periodicals
In the preceding description I have incidentally referred to the
appearance in the proliferating cell of an achromatic spindle-like
figure. Although this was recognized by Fol in 1873, it is only during
the last ten or twelve years that attention has been paid to its more
minute arrangements and possible signification in cell-division.
The pole at each end of the spindle lies in the cell plasm which
surrounds the nucleus. In the center of each pole is a somewhat opaque
spot (central body) surrounded by a clear space, which, along with the
spot, constitutes the centrosome of the sphere of attraction. From
each centrosome extremely delicate lines may be seen to radiate in two
directions. One set extends towards the pole at the opposite end of the
spindle, and, meeting or coming into close proximity with radiations
from it, constitutes the body of the spindle, which, like a perforated
mantle, forms an imperfect envelope around the nucleus during the
process of division. The other set of radiations is called the polar
and extends in the region of the pole towards the periphery of the cell.
The question has been much discussed whether any constituent part of
the achromatic figure, or the entire figure, exists in the cell as a
permanent structure in its resting phase; or if it is only present
during the process of karyokinesis. During the development of the
egg the formation of young cells, by division of the segmentation
nucleus, is so rapid and continuous that the achromatic figure, with
the centrosome in the pole of the spindle, is a readily recognizable
object in each cell. The polar and spindle-like radiations are in
evidence during karyokinesis, and have apparently a temporary endurance
and function. On the other hand, van Beneden and Boveri were of
opinion that the central body of the centrosome did not disappear
when the division of the nucleus came to an end, but that it remained
as a constituent part of a cell lying in the cell plasm, near to
the nucleus. Flemming has seen the central body with its sphere in
leucocytes, as well as in epithelial cells and those of other tissues.
Subsequently Heidenhain and other histologists have recorded similar
observations. It would seem, therefore, as if there were reason to
regard the centrosome, like the nucleus, as a permanent constituent
of a cell. This view, however, is not universally entertained. If not
always capable of demonstration in the resting stage of a cell, it is
doubtless to be regarded as potentially present, and ready to assume,
along with the radiations, a characteristic appearance when the process
of nuclear division is about to begin.
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