[The three-dimensional structure of the tunica intima and tunica media of the human fetal aorta studied by a new method].

A new method is developed for revealing the latent surfaces in the structure of organs by scanning electronic microscopy. The method is based on the treatment of specimens with potassium ethoxide until cells start to appear in the dissociating solution. Using this method, thoracic aorta of nine human fetuses at the stage of 20-28 weeks was studied. Subendothelial intima and media of human fetal aorta contain smooth muscle cells differing by their arrangement, shape and surface microrelief. The intima cells are arranged in a mosaic pattern formed of single cells or cell clusters. By means of cell processes they are connected with each other, as well as with endothelial and smooth muscle cells of the media. Smooth muscle cells in the inner part of the media also have processes and form an open network. Part of the cells penetrate the intima through pores of the inner elastic membrane. In the deeper layers of the media, laterally adjoining spindle-shaped smooth muscle cells are found. It is suggested that the observed cell polymorphism is due mostly to penetration of the media smooth muscle cells into subendothelium and modification of their shape under the effect of the microenvironment.