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Seasonal variations in integumental glycoconjugates of Rana rugosa
1Department of Oriental Medicine, College of Oriental Medicine, Dong-Eui University, Pusan, Karea.
Background:
Although environmental conditions can influence the expression of glycoconjugates (GCs) in the epidermis and cutaneous gland of amphibians, seasonal features regarding GCs in frogs have rarely been studied. In the present study, we report the seasonal variations of the integumental GCs in Rana rugosa.
Methods:
GCs were investigated at the light microscopic level using conventional and lectin histochemistry.
Results:
During the pre- through posthibernating periods, stronger periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-positive GCs were observed in the stratum corneum and transitional layer of the epidermis. At the same time, alcian blue and PAS-positive GCs filled the lumen of the mucous gland. The affinity for PNA in the transitional layer, UEA-1 in stratum germinativum, and SBA in the mucous glands increased significantly during the same periods. In addition, new GCs, which are specific for SBA in the stratum corneum, BSL-1, RCA-1, sWGA, and LCA in some cells of the transitional layer, were detected.
Conclusions:
Elevated GCs and a diversity of lectin affinities may be a result of seasonal adaptations related to hibernation. An affinity for PNA, UEA-1, and SBA in the frog skin may be useful as a marker of seasonal changes.