Abstract
Malpighian tubules of Argas (Persicargas) arboreus Kaiser, Hoogstraal, & Kohls have alternating regions of 2 different cell types, 1 with acid, the other with neutral mucopolysaccharide inclusions. Wolbachia persica occurs in both cell types. The tubule lumen contains a weakly basophilic, homogeneous material with acid and neutral mucopolysaccharide granules and small guanine spherules. Near the rectal sac, the lumen contains a homogeneous acid mucopolysaccharide. All lumen contents pass to the rectal sac where spherule growth occurs with concurrent reduction in mucopolysaccharides and basophilic contents. After an in vitro bloodmeal to which 3H-tyrosine has been added, the malpighian tubule cells and lumen content incorporate the radioisotope. Incorporation in rectal sac cells occurs when the amount of radioactive material is reducing and the guanine spherules are growing. Guanine and hematin in the rectal sac are nonradioactive. The excretory material is postulated to include a soluble precursor of guanine, perhaps guanosine, linked to the mucopolysaccharide from which insoluble guanine is liberated by enzymic action or by changes in the physical environment of the tubules and sac.
Published Version
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