Intragemmal spaces in taste buds.

Empty spaces are seen under both light and electron microscopes inside the taste buds of the dog lingual circumvallate papillae. They average 10 μ in diameter and 20 μ in length. Lacking endothelial lining, they are bordered directly by cell membranes of neighboring bud cells, and thus represent enlarged intercellular spaces. Intergemmal blood capillaries encircle the buds in close proximity to these intragemmal spaces. It is suggested that these spaces act as reservoirs for tissue fluid which may flow from them to the exterior via the intercellular spaces and the gustatory pores. This provides an effective mechanism whereby taste buds may be flushed of stimulating agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]