Morphological and histochemical study of the submandibular gland in Praomys (Mastomys) natalensis

The submandibular gland in female and male Praomys (Mastomys) natalensis (a South African multimammate rodent) was studied using light microscopy and techniques for the demonstration of carbohydrates. Hematoxylin and eosin stain revealed the presence of a single secreting component that gave a strongly positive PAS reaction. Limiting elements of the granular tubules gave a weakly positive PAS reaction. Acidic glycoproteins were evidenced only in granules of the acinar component.