Glycohistochemistry of the External Nasal Gland of Two Lizards (Podarcis sicula campestris and Chalcides chalcides)

Abstract

Secretory cell glycoconjugates of the external nasal glands of ruin lizard and seps were investigated by prelectin staining methods (periodic acid-Schiff, alcian blue, high iron diamine) and lectin histochemistry in combination with neuraminidase digestion. Five plant lectins (Canavalia ensiformis, Triticum vulgare, Glycine max, Lotus tetragonolobus and Arachys hypogaea) conjugated with horseradish peroxidase were tested. Two different secretory cell types could be distinguished in the glandular tubules in both species examined. Lectin histochemistry revealed a microheterogeneity of mucins produced by the different secretory cell types of the two lizards regarding to the distribution pattern of glycosidic residues in glycoproteins.