Morphometric and Immunohistochemical studies on Camel Efferent Ductules in Relation to Reproductive Activity

Introduction: The efferent ductules that arise from rete testis convey spermatozoa from the testis to the epididymis. Seasonal studies on morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics of camel reproductive organs are rare. This study aimed to elucidate the morphometric changes and immunoreactivities of S-100 and alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in dromedary camel efferent ductules during rutting (reproductive) and non-rutting (non-reproductive) seasons. Methods: Simple (proximal part) and pseudo-stratified (distal part) columnar epithelium lined the efferent ductules, which contained ciliated and non-ciliated cells that gave the epithelial lining its wavy shape. Results: The epithelium was significantly higher and stereocilia were insignificantly longer during non-breeding season as compared to breeding season. There was a significant increase in luminal diameter and muscular coat thickness during breeding season. The epithelium of proximal and distal segments as well as smooth muscles and surrounding connective tissue exhibited positive S-100 reactions during breeding and non-breeding seasons; this reaction was stronger in breeding season than non-breeding season. The epithelial cell reaction was negative or very weak to α-SMA during breeding and non-breeding seasons, whereas smooth muscle and surrounding connective tissue showed positive reaction which was stronger in breeding season. Conclusion: In conclusion, S-100 and α-SMA show seasonal morphometric and immunoreactivities variations in camel efferent ductules; these variations could be associated with the physiological condition during breeding and non-breeding seasons.