Histological and histochemical features of the Jejunum in wild Turkey Meleagris Gallopavo (Linnaeu, 1758)

Abstract

Introduction: the present study aimed to identify the histological and histochemistry characterizations of the Jejunum in the wild Turkey Meleagris gallopavo microscopically by using several histological and histochemical stains. The results showed that the jejunum wall is composed of the four layers that make up the wall of the digestive tract. The mucosal layer had a numerous long villus that appeared in various forms. Simple columnar epithelial tissue covers the villi, and this tissue is also rich in goblet cells. The secretory units of Liebrkuhkn's crypts had a spherical shape, some of which contained entroendocrine cells. The Jejunum also was containing Payer's patches. Auerbach's plexus also appeared in the muscularis layer. The histochemical results of the epithelial tissue and intestinal glands showed a positive response to AB pH 1, pH 2.5, and PAS techniques, which indicated the secretion of mucous substances. In contrast, the response was negative for BP and SB techniques, which suggests the non-secretion of protein and fatty substances. The study concluded that the jejunum structure is similar to the composition of the rest of the small intestine. Still, it characterized by its multiform villi, entroendocrine cells, and Payer's patches, which contribute significantly to increasing the effectiveness of the digestive tract of this bird.