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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
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Preparation of Murine Submandibular Salivary Gland for Upright Intravital Microscopy
Published on: May 7, 2018
Microscopy of the koala mandibular (submandibular) glands
1Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA. krausew@health.missouri.edu
Anatomia, Histologia, Embryologia
|July 22, 2010
Summary
Koala mandibular glands feature exclusively serous cells. Ultrastructural analysis reveals unique secretory granules and their discharge mechanisms in these marsupial salivary glands.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Anatomy
- Comparative Histology
- Marsupial Biology
Background:
- Koala mandibular (submandibular) glands are compound tubuloacinar glands.
- Previous studies have not fully detailed the ultrastructure and secretory mechanisms of these glands.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the cellular and ultrastructural features of koala mandibular glands.
- To investigate the nature of secretory granules and their release pathways.
Main Methods:
- Histological examination using PAS and Alcian Blue staining.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for ultrastructural analysis.
Main Results:
- Secretory units composed solely of serous cells with intercellular canaliculi.
- Abundant intercalated ducts connecting to striated ducts with extensive basolateral infoldings.
- Serous cell secretory granules are PAS and Alcian Blue negative, appearing electron-lucent with a filamentous texture under TEM.
- Granules often coalesce and are observed discharging into the canalicular lumen.
Conclusions:
- Koala mandibular glands exhibit a unique serous cell composition and secretory granule characteristics.
- The ultrastructure suggests a specialized mechanism for secretion in koala submandibular glands.
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