Histological and lectin histochemical characterization of the efferent ductules in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius)

Abstract

To study the microscopic anatomy of the ductuli efferentes in the dromedary camel, tissue sections were stained with H&E and a combination of Masson's trichrome and Verhoeff's stains. Efferent ductules showed variations in diameter. Two morphologically distinct types of epithelium were detected, both including ciliated and non‐ciliated cells. Close to the rete testis, the lining epithelium was a low pseudostratified columnar. Close to the epididymal duct the epithelium varied in height from place to place similar in appearance to the initial portion of the epididymal duct; however, the nuclei maintained their specific pattern pertaining to the efferent ductules and not to the initial part of the epididymal duct. Each tubule was surrounded by a delicate circular layer of smooth muscle cells with loose connective tissue interspersed between the tubules. Histochemical characteristics of epithelial cells were investigated using an array of six lectins: Con‐A, DBA, MAA, SBA, SNA‐1, and WGA. Specific sugar residues of MAA and SNA‐1 were not detected. Carbohydrate binding of Con‐A and WGA was readily detected. Binding of SBA and DBA was mild. Regional variations in binding of these lectins are discussed and they suggest a high degree of functional compartmentalization of the epithelium of the efferent ductules.Grant Funding Source: Professional Development