Ultra-structure of adipocytes in the digital cushion of ostrich (Stuthio Camelus) foot pad

The ultra-structural examination of adipocytes in the digital cushion of ostrich foot pad was performed to reveal the structural adaptation of adipocytes and elastic fibers of digital cushion to accommodate with fast movement of this unique bird. Two types of adipocytes were found, the first type was typical signet ring cells which had large fat droplets whose dimension dwarfed the cell organelles. The second type was diffused form with oval shaped adipocytes. Microfibillar aggregates of elastic fibers were closely packed and appeared to bead in a regular fashion. Some of this microfibrillar was reshaping adipocytes by making invagination of their plasma membrane.