In vivo and electron microscopic observations on Schwann cells in developing tadpole nerve fibers

The migration of Schwann cells and their early association with axons were studied in transparent tadpole tail fins. Nomarksi optics revealed that in vivo these cells are pleomorphic, changing their shape by extending and withdrawing long, blunt pseudopods. Daily observations of the same fiber fascicles for a month or more combined with intensive short‐term studies of other tadpoles showed that migrating Schwann cells move sporadically at rates of up to 114 μm/day. They are usually, although not always, in contact with one or more axons. In the electron microscope, these migrating cells are similar in cytoplasmic structure to others that have settled down and begun to spread along axons; however, they possess no basal lamina. Later, Schwann cells become more spindle‐shaped and acquire a basal lamina. Schwann cell surface characteristics and the changes imposed by the presence of the basal lamina may be important in the establishment of permanent axon‐Schwann cell relationships. In our living material we were unable to visualize the intricate, rapidly changing associations between Schwann cells and small axonal fascicles that precede myelination. However, they are probably more complex than Speidel's studies would indicate.