Ultrastructural studies on the differentiation of spermatids in the domestic fowl
Gunawardana, V.K.; Scott, M.G.
Journal of Anatomy 124(Pt 3): 741-755
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-8782 PMID: 604341 Document Number: 123642
Four phases of spermatid maturation are recognized on the basis of nuclear morphology. The formation of the acrosome, perforatiorum and axial filament complex are described in relation to these phases. The functional significance of the microtubular systems in nuclear elongation and spermatid curvature are discussed. A membranous structure, hitherto unidentified, referred to as the "membrane body", is compared with the chromatoid body. Morphological evidence suggests that this structure, together with the annulate lamellae, removes excessive nuclear material.