Microvilli-Microplicae

The cell surface can also be enlarged by raised, leaf-like formations of the plasmalemma—i.e., by outward extension in the form of folds. The figure shows flat epithelial cells from the canine tongue with a dense pattern of microplicae —i.e., raise d folds of the plasma membrane. Such microplicae folds are commonly observe d in a multitude of patterns. Microplicae also exist at the bottom face of flat epithelial cells, and therefore may play a role in intercellular adhesion. The more pronounced “edges” in this figure correspond to the cell borders. In transmission electron microscopy, vertical cuts show microplicae of ten as short, stump-shape d microvilli.  Located on top of the epithelial cells are two erythrocytes and a rod-shaped form, which can be categorize d as an oral cavity saprophyte.

Scanning electron microscopy; magnification: × 3600

References

Kuehnel, W.(2003). Color Atlas of Cytology, Histology, and Microscopic Anatomy. 4^th edition . Institute of Anatomy Universitätzu Luebeck Luebeck, Germany . Thieme Stuttgar t · New York .