Chromatophilic substance, also known as Nissl substance, refers to the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and ribosomal RNA found in the cell bodies of neurons. This substance is rich in ribosomes and is responsible for the synthesis of proteins necessary for neuronal function and maintenance.
In histological studies, chromatophilic substances can be stained with basic dyes, which is why they appear prominently in sections of nervous tissue. These structures play a critical role in the production of neurotransmitters and other important proteins needed for the growth and repair of neural cells.
Overall, the presence of chromatophilic substance is a key feature in distinguishing the neuron from other types of cells, and it contributes significantly to the neuron’s activity and health.