Microsomal Lipid Peroxidation: Morphological Characterization

Abstract

Lipid peroxidation of liver and kidney microsomes induces a highly characteristic sequence of morphological changes typified by detachment of ribosomes and formation of large aggregates of vesicles bound together by dense amorphous material and myelin figure-like debris. The trilaminar structure of the membrane is, however, retained even after complete peroxidation, though its spacing may be increased. The aggregates resemble lysosomal lipofuscin pigment as well as the membranous aggregates of endoplasmic reticulum seen in the liver after carbon tetrachloride poisoning.