The neuronal structure of the ventromedial and infundibular nuclei in the guinea pig: Nissl and Golgi study

The studies were carried out on the mesencephalons of adult guinea pigs. On the basis of the Golgi technique, as well as the Nissl and Klüver-Barrera methods, four types of neurons were distinguished in the ventromedial nucleus (VMH) and infundibular nucleus (Ni): 1. Rounded neurons (perikarya 12–18 µm) with 3-4 dendritic trunks, which divide once, twice or not at all. The dendritic branches possess varicosities and knob-like spines. These neurons predominate in VMH. 2. Fusiform neurons (perikarya 15-28 µm) with 2 dendritic trunks, which arise from the opposite poles of the cell body. Bead-like protuberances and knob-like processes are observed on the dendrites. These neurons are the most numerous in Ni. 3. Triangular neurons (perikarya 15-22 µm) possess three thick, conical dendrites, which bifurcate dichotomically. Bead-like appendages and knob-like processes were seen on the dendritic surface. 4. Multipolar neurons (perikarya 18-22 µm) with 4-5 dendritic trunks, which are poorly ramified. The dendritic branches are smooth, but varicosities can be observed on their surface. In all types of neurons an axon was observed to arise either from the dendritic trunk or from the soma