Histological and lectin histochemical characterization of the epididymal duct in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius)

Abstract

Regional microscopic anatomy of the epididymal duct of the dromedary camel was studied using H&E and a combination of Masson's trichrome and Verhoeff's staining. The initial segment of the epididymis was lined with high pseudostratified columnar epithelium with stereocilia; and with varying height levels from place to place giving the duct a “festooned” appearance. The nuclei of principal and basal cells were located in the basal one‐third of the epithelial cells. The duct was surrounded by a layer of circularly oriented smooth muscle cells; this peritubular smooth muscle thickened toward the termination of the epididymal duct. The middle and terminal segments of the epididymal duct were lined with the same type epithelium with no noticeable variations in height. The nuclei were located in the basal one‐half of the cells and spermatozoa were more evident in the lumen of the middle and terminal segments. Histochemical characteristics of epithelial cells were investigated using a panel of different lectins: Con‐A, DBA, MAA, SBA, SNA‐1, and WGA. These showed selective regional binding to different portions of the epididymal duct and varying degrees of binding to different cellular compartments. These regional variations in carbohydrate composition are discussed; they indicate a great deal of functional compartmentalization in the epididymal duct.Grant Funding Source: professional development