Feulgen-DNA content and chromatin organization in the spermathecal glands of Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) queens with aging

Abstract

The secretions from the spermathecal glands in honeybee queens contribute to maintaining the viability of spermatozoa stored in the spermatheca. This viability is reduced as the queen ages. Here, we investigated whether DNA content changes and chromatin remodeling, that could suggest changes in cellular functions, occur in the spermathecal glands of Apis mellifera queens with aging. Feulgen-stained glands from early-mated and old queens were studied by image analysis. Increased polyploidization, heterogeneously distributed chromatin coarseness, and no cell death signs were verified in the spermathecal glands of aged queens. These results, compared with published data for other cellular systems, are suggestive of alterations in the spermathecal gland cells upon aging, possibly affecting their secretory fluid production. In consequence, sperm cell protection in the spermatheca would be less effective. © 2014 The Author(s).