Lectin histochemistry of secretory cell glycoconjugates in the nasal mucosa of Podarcis sicula campestris De Betta (Reptilia, Lacertidae).

Abstract

Histochemical study by traditional staining methods (AB, PAS, HID) and by the use of five peroxidase-labelled lectins (ConA, WGL, WPL, SBL, PNL) were carried out to characterize glycoconjugates in the secretory cells of the nasal mucosa of the Lacertid lizard Podarcis sicula campestris De Betta. The mucus covering the nasal epithelium is produced by the supporting cells and the Bowman glands in the olfactory area, and by typical goblet cells and, probably, a second type of secretory cell, in the non-sensory area. Neutral glycoconjugates containing N-acetyl-D-glucosamine and terminal N-acetyl-D-galactosamine, D-mannose and D-glucose residues were present in the secretory product of the Bowman glands. L-fucose and D-galactose were absent. In the supporting cells the secretory product consisted mainly of sulfated glycoproteins containing D-galactose, N-acetyl-D-galactosamine, N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, D-mannose, D-glucose, but not L-fucose. Glycoconjugates containing terminal sialic acid and penultimate D-galactose were present in typical goblet cells as was N-acetyl-D-glucosamine.