Scanning electron microscopy study of the palatine salivary glands of rabbits

The structure of the palatine salivary glands of rabbits was studied employing scanning electron microscopic methods. The fractured surface of the palatine salivary glands revealed that they were formed of small lobuli separated by interlobular spaces containing numerous bundles of collagen fibers. The NaOH treated specimens showed the organization of the collagen fibrils in their original location. In the interstitial stroma compartment, the collagen fibrils revealed a complex three-dimensional arrangement forming channel-like structures for supporting nerve fibers, small vessels and capillaries. Single groups of acinar cells were clearly demonstrated, and each acinus was enveloped by a characteristic basal lamina showing a sponge-like structure made up of several interconnected meshes of collagen fibrils. Furthermore, taking advantage of the ODO method and field emission scanning electron microscopy, within the cytoplasm of secretory acinar cells numerous organelles were clearly observed in a three-dimensional way such as Golgi complex lamellae, rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria and secretory granules. All these cytoplasmic components revealed their real and microtopographical arrangement in some areas of the acinar cytoplasm clearly suggesting their direct involvement in energetic as well as secretory activities.