[Morphology of the ampulla ductus deferentis of rabbits. Transmission and scanning electron microscopy studies].

The structure of the ampulla ductus deferentis of adult rabbits was studied by light-, transmission- and scanning-electron microscopy. The ampulla consists of a network of diverticles surrounding the central lumen. The diverticles are connected with each other and with the central lumen by oval or round openings. After ejaculation diverticles are usually empty. However, some diverticles were filled with spermatozoa only at sexual rest. The epithelial cells contain an abundant Golgi apparatus, which is organized as a system of closely packed flattened cisternae sometimes being in close connection to lipid droplets and lysosomes. The plasma membrane forms long microvilli-like processes and sometimes vesiculated spherical bodies, swollen cellular apices and protuberances apparently being pinched off.