The role of electron microscopy in neuropathology

The electron microscope has been an essential instrument for elucidating the morphology of cells and tissue. Fine structural investigation of nervous tissue has disclosed numerous new findings, which were once invisible. In this communication I present my personal perspective on the role of electron microscopy in neuropathology through the presentation of selected electron microscopic projects engaged in our institution. These include brain edema, structural analysis of the myelin in the central nervous system, endodermal cysts in the central nervous system, aberrant synaptic development, toxoplasmosis in AIDS, and Hirano bodies.