The structure of the lateral gland of the big-clawed shrew (sorex unguiculatus)

Abstract

The histological structure of the lateral gland of the big-clawed shrew (Sorex unguiculatus) together with the fine structure of its apocrine glands is described. The characteristic feature of the lateral gland is the presence of three unusually well-developed epidermal derivatives; sebaceous glands, bristles and apocrine glands with a remarkably thick myoepithelial cell layer. The secretory cells of the apocrine gland vary in appearance according to the amount of secretory material they contain. This secretory material appears to contain mostly protein, and is not surrounded by a limiting membrane but a layer of cytoplasm rich in ribosomes. Mitochondria of different appearances are distributed throughout the cytoplasm in a peculiar manner. Large dense ones are seen at cell apices surrounding the secretory material, whereas small pleomorphic ones the middle and base of the cells. The larger ones may be secreted with the secretory material. The frequent occurrence of two kinds of autophagic vacuoles is also noticed in these cells. The possibility of a direct relationship between these well-developed apocrine glands which occupy the main volume of the lateral gland and the absence of a secretory portion of the striated duct of the submandibular gland is suggested. © 1973, International Society of Histology and Cytology. All rights reserved.