Figure 1. Transmission electron microscopy of preneoplastic nodules.

A. Representative image of control liver. Hepatocytes (H) typically display a large, round nucleus (N); numerous mitochondria (m) with regular matrix and prominent cristae. B. Ultrastructure of a preneoplastic hepatocyte (H). Irregular nucleus (N), extensive vacuolation (asterisks), lipid droplets accumulation (see arrows) characterize the preneoplastic modifications. C. Higher magnification of nodule hepatocytes revealed that mitochondria undergo pathological modifications, consisting of swelling and progressive loss of cristae. Autophagosomes containing only partially digested material are also visible (arrows). D. Lipid inclusions (LL) accumulation in the cytoplasm of preneoplastic hepatocytes. Original magnifications: A, B= x3000; C, D= x30000.