Non-membrane enclosed intramitochondrial dense bodies☆

Abstract Large intramitochondrial dense bodies of irregular shape and without limiting membranes were observed during the ethionine intoxication in rats. Sodium or potassium deficiencies superimposed upon the ethionine injury had no effect on the occurrence of these bodies, while hypoxic conditions caused a considerable increase. The dense bodies are considered to be responses to severe though non-specific cellular injuries. They appear to be derived, at least in part, from altered groups of cristae.