The subcellular localization of immunoglobulin in mouse plasma cells, as studied with immunoferritin cytochemistry on ultrathin frozen sections.

Cells of mineral oil-induced plasmacytomas (MOPC) and normal plasma cells from mouse lymph nodes were used to study the intracellular localization of IgG by means of immunoferritin cytochemistry on ultrathin frozen sections IgG was demonstrated in the rough endoplasmic reticulum, in virus-containing smooth ER of the tumor cells, in peripheral elements at the cis-side of the Golgi complex, and in all Golgi cisternae. It is suggested that the peripheral elements transfer IgG molecules from the RER to the Golgi complex. Vacuoles showing a strong immunoreaction occurred at the trans-side of the Golgi complex. These vacuoles were normal in lymph node plasma cells and were occasionally seen in the tumor plasma cells. It is proposed that these vacuoles carry IgG from the Golgi complex to the cell membrane and, hence, can be considered as secretory vacuoles.