Abstract
Intercellular junctions are comparatively described in the three successive segments recognized along the Malpighian tubules of both Blattella germanica and Tenebrio molitor. In Blattella, the junctional complexes in both the proximal and distal segments include a smooth setate junction whereas both smooth and pleated septate junctions are observed in the midsegment. In all cases, a belt desmosome is observed at the apex of the junctional complex and gap junctions in the basal part. In Tenebrio, the junctional complex is the same along the whole length of the Malpighian tubules and is comparable to that described in the extreme segments of those from Blattella, although no apical belt desmosome is observed. The characteristic structural features of pleated and smooth septate junctions are most easily demonstrated when both types coexist in the same junctional complex. The differences in junctional complexes are discussed along with their possible functions.
Published Version
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