Epithelial Cells of the Ductus Vitellointestinalis in the Mustelus griseus Embryo

Abstract

The structure and function of epithelial cells of the ductus vitellointestinalis in the Mustelus griseus embryo were studied through light and electron microscopic observations. The ductus vitellointestinalis is contained within the yolk stalk, which connects an embryo with the yolk sac. The internal surface of the ductus vitellointestinalis is a simple epithelium lining, and consists mainly of ciliated squamous cells and columnar cells with microvilli. Structural characteristics of the cells suggest that the ciliated squamous cells may aid in the transportation of yolk and that the columnar cells with microvilli may function as absorptive cells. It may be considered, therefore, that the ductus vitellointestinalis in the M. griseus embryo is engaged not only in the transportation of yolk, but also in the absorption of yolk being conveyed into the intestine. © 1981, The Japanese Society of Fisheries Science. All rights reserved.