Function of the salivary glands of the cockroach, Nauphoeta cinerea

Abstract

The salivary glands of Nauphoeta cinerea consist of four cell types: peripheral cells, central cells, and secretory and non-secretory duct cells. The structure and histochemistry of these cells are described. The peripheral cells are probably responsible for the primary transport of water and ions into the gland whereas the non-secretory duct cells may alter the ionic concentrations in the saliva as it passes down the ducts. The central cells secrete amylase and probably also the other enzymes (invertase, maltase, and protease) found in the gland. Lactase and lipase were not detected in the gland although the latter enzyme was present in the gut. A mucous component containing sialoglycans is produced by the secretory duct cells; these cells also contain a large concentration of tryptophan although certain other amino acids (tyrosine, arginine, and cystine) are absent. © 1971.