Comparative Three-Dimensional Fine Structures of the Rabbit Vocal Fold Using Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy

ObjectivesThe comparative fine structures of the rabbit vocal fold (VF) were investigated using the technique combined with correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to elucidate the functional mechanisms.MethodsSeven normal New Zealand White Rabbit vocal folds were examined using CLEM technique and TEM to investigate their fine structures.ResultsIn contrast to the human VF, the rabbit VF lacked the macula flava and vocal ligament. However, the distribution of fibrous components of the lamina propria (LP) of the rabbit VF was similar to the human VF. Spindle-shaped and oval-shaped cells were identified in the LP of the membranous portion of the rabbit VF using CLEM. Furthermore, amorphous materials were produced from vesicles positioned at the periphery of fibroblast cytoplasm. Unlike the human macula flava, stellate cells containing lipid droplets in the cytoplasm were absent in the rabbit VF.ConclusionThe potential utilization of the CLEM technique facilitates the observation of these fine structures in other species commonly employed in animal experiments. Rabbits are considered a suitable species for animal experiments due to the characteristics of the fibrous components of the VF, but it is crucial for researchers to understand the structural and functional distinctions of VF in other species utilized for animal experiments. As the CLEM is a useful technique to evaluate the fine structures of the VF across small species, it is expected to be applied in animal experiments in future studies.Level of EvidenceNA Laryngoscope, 2025