Histo-morphological comparison of the tongue between grainivorous and insectivorous birds / Comparación histo-morfológica de la lengua entre aves granívoras e insectívoras

SUMMARY: The study aimed to illustrate the influence of feeding habits in the anatomical feature and histological structure as well as some histochemical observations on the tongue of two species of birds which differ in their classification, activity and habitat as; The domestic pigeon, Grainivorous bird, and cattle egret, Insectivorous bird, using light and SEM studies. Results showed that the tongue of two species was differing in size, shape and structure. The tongue of pigeon appeared short and triangular; while in cattle egret was long lanceolate in shape with narrow tapering apex. Dorsal large conical lingual papillae presented between the body and the root of both tongue of the studied birds. They were arranged in form of U-letter in pigeon and in form of wide V-letter in cattle egret. Histologically, both dorsal and ventral lingual surfaces lined with keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, which decreased in the thickness and the degree of keratinization toward the base. The dorsum of the apex of pigeon tongue showed desquamated epithelial cells with filiform papillae, these papillae not observed in the egret¢s tongue. The tongue of cattle egret contained longitudinal tendinous tissue as intra-lingual ligament appeared parallel and accompanied with skeletal muscle bundles and attached with entoglossal cartilage. It extended longitudinally from the root to the body of the egret's tongue. The salivary glands presented in the propria submucosal layer of the dorsal surface that extended laterally from apex to the root, while the ventral surface devoid from any glandular structures. The nature of lingual salivary glands showed variations in their histochemical observation to Alcian blue stain and PAS technique. It has been summarized that the morphological and histological variations of both tongues may be correlated to their feeding habits.

RESUMEN: La investigación tuvo como objetivo ilustrar mediante estudios de luz y SEM, la influencia de los hábitos alimentarios en la característica anatómica y estructura histológica, así como algunas observaciones histoquímicas en la lengua de dos especies de aves, que se diferencian en su clasificación, actividad y hábitat, como es la paloma doméstica, ave granívora y la garcilla bueyera, ave insectívora. De acuerdo a los resultados la lengua de las dos especies difería en tamaño, forma y estructura. La lengua de las palomas tenía una forma corta y triangular; mientras que en la garceta bueyera era de forma larga lanceolada con ápice estrecho y agusado. Grandes papilas dorsales linguales cónicas entre el cuerpo y la raíz de ambas lenguas estaban dispuestos en forma de letra U en paloma y en forma de letra V ancha en garza bueyera. Histológicamente, las superficies linguales dorsal y ventral estaban revestidas con epitelio escamoso estratificado queratinizado que disminuía en el grosor y el grado de queratinización hacia la base. El dorso del ápice de la lengua de la paloma mostró células epiteliales descamadas, estas papilas no se observaron en la lengua de la garceta. Se observó tejido tendinoso longitudinal en la lengua de la garceta bueyera, debido a que el ligamento intralingual aparecía en forma paralela y acompañado de haces de músculo esquelético y adherido con cartílago entogloso. Se extendía longitudinalmente entre la raíz hasta el cuerpo de la lengua de la garceta. Las glándulas salivales de la lengua estaban incrustadas en la capa submucosa propia de la superficie dorsal que se extendía lateralmente desde el ápice hasta la raíz, mientras que la superficie ventral carecía de estructuras glandulares. En las glándulas salivales linguales se observaron variaciones histoquímicas a la tinción con azul de Alcian y la técnica PAS. En conclusión, las variaciones morfológicas e histológicas de ambas lenguas pueden estar correlacionadas con sus hábitos alimentarios.

Scanning electron microscopy study of the dorsal surface of the tongue in the slow loris (Nycticebus coucang) and pygma slow loris (N. Pygmaeus) / Estudio de microscopía electrónica de barrido de la superficie dorsal de la lengua en lori perezoso (Nycticebus coucang) y lori perezoso pigmeo (N. Pygmaeus)

The dorsal surface of the tongues of the Slow Loris and the Pygma Slow Loris were examined by employing scanning electron microscopy techniques. Three types of the papillae are present on their dorsal surface of the tongue: filiform, fungiform and vallate. The filiform papillae are located the apex and the body of the tongue, and we observed that each of them has a gustatory pore. The fungiform papillae, scattered singly among the filiform papillae, distribute mainly on the apex of the tongue. The vallate papillae are located along the diversing arms of the V-shaped boundary between the anterior and posterior regions of the tongue. In addition, no foliate papillae were observed. The morphological characteristics of the dorsal surface of the tongues in Slow Loris and Pygma Slow Loris are similar to each other.

La superficie dorsal de la lengua en lori perezoso y lori perezoso pigmeo fue examinada utilizando técnicas de microscopía electrónica de barrido. Se observaron tres tipos de papilas presentes en la superficie dorsal de la lengua: filiforme, fungiforme y valada. Las papilas filiformes se localizaban en el ápice y en el cuerpo de la lengua, y observamos que cada una tenía un poro gustativo. Las papilas fungiformes están distribuidas individualmente entre las papilas filiformes, principalmente en el ápice de la lengua. Entre las regiones anterior y posterior de la lengua se observan las papilas valadas a lo largo de las extensiones del margen en forma de 'V'. Además, no se observaron papilas foliadas. Las características morfológicas de la superficie dorsal de las lenguas en lori perezoso y lori perezoso pigmeo son similares entre sí.

Morphologic effects of filiform papilla root on the lingual mechanical functions of Chinese yellow cattle / Efectos morfológicos de las raíces de las papilas filiformes sobre la función mecánica lingual del ganado amarillo chino

The morphology of filiform papilla root in the tongue of Chinese yellow cattle were studied by scanning electron microscopy, and several geometric models were established to analyze the possible effects of such structures on lingual mechanical functions. Conical and tongue-like filiform papillae were detected in different locations on the lingual surface, along with six types of root structures. A lingual groove surrounded the papillae in five of these structures. To date, such grooves have not been discussed in studies on bovine lingual morphology, and those distributed on the dorsal surface of the lingual apex can limit the motion ranges of filiform papillae. Two secondary papillae emerged from a groove on the dorsal surface of the lingual apex's caudal half; these papillae can protect a filiform papilla root from damage. The grooves and the flat orientation of such papillae on the dorsal surface of the lingual body can reduce energy expenditure during forage transportation. A lingual rib that can strengthen the filiform papilla root emerged from a groove on the dorsal surface of the rostral half of the lingual body. On the dorsal surface of the lingual body's caudal half, all filiform papillae emerged from a groove to form low lingual walls that can protect the roots from being crushed by forage. High lingual walls were generated on the lateral surface of the lingual apex; these walls enable filiform papillae to adapt to harsh food environments effectively. The root structures on the lingual body's lateral surface were adequately simple and did not exhibit lingual grooves; thus, hydraulic resistance may decrease during mastication. Diverse root structures can optimize the lingual mechanical functions and improve self-protection capability in combination with the appearance and distributions of these papillae. All the aforementioned features may be the result of environmental adaption and cattle evolution.

La morfología de las papilas filiformes ubicadas en la raíz lingual del ganado amarillo chino fue estudiada mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido, estableciendo varios modelos geométricos para analizar los posibles efectos de estas estructuras sobre las funciones mecánicas linguales. Se detectaron papilas filiformes cónicas en diversas localizaciones de la superficie lingual, junto con seis tipos de estructuras en la raíz de la misma. Un surco lingual rodeado de las papilas se observó en cinco de estas estructuras. Hasta la fecha, dichos surcos no se han discutido en los estudios sobre la morfología lingual bovina, y aquellas distribuidas en la superficie dorsal de la cúspide lingual pueden limitar los rangos de movimientos en las papilas filiformes. Dos papilas secundarias surgieron de una ranura en la superficie dorsal de la mitad caudal de la cúspide lingual; estas papilas pueden proteger de los daños a una papila filiforme. Las ranuras y la orientación plana de tales papilas en la superficie dorsal del cuerpo lingual pueden reducir el gasto de energía durante el transporte de forraje. Un nervio lingual que puede fortalecer la raíz y las papilas filiformes se observó en una de las ranuras en la superficie dorsal, de la mitad rostral del cuerpo lingual. En la superficie dorsal de la mitad caudal del cuerpo lingual, todas las papilas filiformes generaron una ranura para formar un tipo de paredes linguales que pueden proteger las raíces. Las paredes linguales altas se generaron en la superficie lateral del ápice lingual; estas paredes permiten que las papilas filiformes se adapten a entornos inhóspitos de alimentos. Las estructuras de la raíz en la superficie lateral del cuerpo lingual fueron simples y no mostraron surcos linguales, lo que puede disminuir la resistencia hidráulica durante la masticación. Diversas estructuras de la raíz pueden optimizar las funciones mecánicas linguales y mejorar la capacidad de autoprotección en combinación con el aspecto y las distribuciones de estas papilas. Todas las características antes mencionadas pueden ser el resultado de la adaptación ambiental y la evolución de ganado.

Morphology of the lingual papillae in the least weasel (Mustela nivalis) / Morfología de las papilas linguales en la comadreja común (Mustela nivalis)

The dorsal surface structure of the lingual papillae in the least weasel was compared with that of other carnivorous mammalian species. Two types of mechanical papillae (filiform and conical) and two types of gustatory papillae (fungiform and vallate) were observed. The filiform papillae had secondary processes. Rarely conical papillae were observed. A few taste buds were seen on the surfaces of the fungiform papillae. The four vallate papillae were located on both sides of the posterior end of the lingual body. In conclusion, morphological characteristics of the lingual papillae and their distribution in the least weasel were similar to those of the Japanese marten and ferret. The conical papillae in the lingual apex of the Japanese marten and ferret were not observed, but the conical papillae were seen in the lingual apex of the least weasel.

La estructura de la superficie dorsal de las papilas linguales en la comadreja se comparó con la de otras especies de mamíferos carnívoros. Se observaron dos tipos de papilas mecánicas (filiformes y cónicas) y dos tipos de papilas gustativas (fungiformes y circunvaladas). Las papilas filiformes presentaron procesos secundarios. En raras ocasiones se observaron papilas cónicas. Unas pocas papilas gustativas fueron observadas en las superficies de las papilas fungiformes. Las cuatro papilas circunvaladas se encuentran a ambos lados de la parte posterior de la lengua. En conclusión, las características morfológicas de las papilas linguales y su distribución de la comadreja menor fueron similares a los de la marta y hurones japonés. No se observaron papilas cónicas en el ápice de la lengua de la marta y hurón japonés, pero si en el ápice de la lengua de la comadreja común.

Functional anatomical, histological and ultrastructural studies of three chameleon species: Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Chamaeleo africanus, and Chamaeleon vulgaris / Estudios anatómicos, histológicos y ultraestructurales funcionales de tres especies de camaleón: Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Chamaeleo africanus, y Chamaeleon vulgaris

Three chamaeleon species including Chameleon Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Chameleon Chamaeleo africanus, and Chamaeleon vulgaris were collected and their tongue were dissected and examined morphologically and investigated using light and scanning electron microscopy. Both species showed similar histological manifestation of lingual papillae and tubular glands with dense mucous secretion especially in Chamaeleon vulgaris. There is no keratinization of lingual surfaces. Ultrastructurally, filliform represent the only pattern of lingual pappillae and take either cylindrical, conical and leaflet structure.Although the examined chalmaeleon species collected from different habitat, it shows almost similarities in their histological and ultrastructural structures.

Fueron recolectadas tres especies de Camaleón incluyendo Camaleón Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Camaleón Chamaeleo africanus y Chamaeleon vulgaris. Se disecó su lengua y examinó morfológicamente mediante el uso de microscopía de luz y electrónica de barrido. Ambas especies mostraron características histológicas similares en relación a las papilas linguales y glándulas tubulares con secreción mucosa densa, especialmente el Chamaeleon vulgaris. No hubo queratinización de las superficies linguales. Ultraes-tructuralmente, el único patrón de papilas linguales fue el filiforme, tomando una estructura ya sea cilíndrica, cónica y de hoja. Aunque las especies de Camaleón examinadas se recogieron de diferentes hábitat, ellas mostraron similitudes en su estructura histológica y ultraestructural.

Morphological comparison of the filiform papillae of New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) as domestic mammals and Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) as wild mammals using scanning electron microscopic specimens / Comparación morfológica de las papilas filiformes de conejos blancos Nueva Zelanda (Oryctolagus cuniculus) como los mamíferos domésticos y los murciélagos de la fruta egipcios (Rousettus aegyptiacus) como los mamíferos salvajes utilizando muestras de microscopía electrónica de barrido

This paper presents a comparison of the morphological structure of the filiform papillae in New Zealand white rabbits as domestic mammals and Egyptian fruit bats as wild mammals. This study was carried out on the tongues of adult healthy New Zealand white rabbits and Egyptian fruit bats of both sexes. There were four types of lingual papillae in both animals. In the Egyptian fruit bats, there were six subtypes of the filiform papillae; three on the anterior part (small, conical and giant), two on the middle part (cornflower and leaf-like papillae) while the posterior part contain rosette shape filiform papillae, in addition to transitional papillae and conical papillae. In New Zealand white rabbits, there were four subtypes of filiform papillae; spoonful conical (on the lingual anterior part), processed (at the anterior edge of lingual prominence), leaf-like (on the posterior area of lingual prominence) and triangular filiform papillae (on the lingual root). The shape, size, number and orientation of the lingual papillae itself and its processes varied according to their location within the tongue (region-specific) in relation to the feeding habits, strategies for obtaining food, climate conditions, and types of food particles.

Se comparó la estructura morfológica de las papilas filiformes de un mamífero doméstico (conejo neozelandes) y de un mamífero silvestre (murciélagos de la fruta egipcio). El estudio fue realizado en animales de ambos sexos. Se observó cuatro tipos de papilas linguales, en ambas especies de animales. En los murciélagos de la fruta egipcio se observaron seis subtipos de papilas filiformes; tres en la parte anterior (pequeño, cónico y gigante), dos en la parte media (aciano y hojas como papilas) mientras que en la parte posterior se observaron papilas filiformes y papilas de transición cónica. En los conejos se observaron cuatro subtipos de papilas filiformes; cónica cucharada (en la parte anterior lingual), procesado (en el margen anterior de la prominencia lingual), tipo hoja (en la zona posterior de la prominencia lingual) y papilas filiformes triangulares (en la raíz lingual). La forma, tamaño, número y orientación de las papilas linguales y sus procesos varían de acuerdo a la función y a la ubicación en la lengua (específicos de la región) en relación con los hábitos de alimentación, las estrategias para la obtención de alimentos, las condiciones climáticas y tipos de partículas de alimentos.

Characteristics of the gustatory organs on the tongue of the chinese fire-bellied newt (Cynops orientalis): light and scanning electron microscopy study / Características de los órganos gustativos en la lengua del tritón vientre de fuego chino (Cynops orientalis): estudio por microscopía de luz y electrónica de barrido

The dorsal surface of the tongue gustatory organs of Chinese fire-bellied newt (Cynops orientalis) was observed by employing the light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. The results revealed that the rostral and median part of the tongue presents a round apex and covered by taste disks (TDs). They are usually roundish or ellipsoidal in shape and are 20-35 mm in diameter. The many openings of the lingual glands are 4-8 mm in diameter exist in the lateral border or median part of lingual body. The gustatory organs on the tongue did not differed form those presented in other species in Caudates. These may indicate the functions of gustatory organs on the tongue related to their life habit.

La superficie dorsal de la lengua de los órganos gustativos del tritón de vientre de fuego chino (Cynops orientalis) se observó mediante microscopía de luz y electrónica de barrido (SEM). Los resultados revelaron que la parte rostral y mediana de la lengua presenta un ápice redondo y cubierto por discos sensoriales. Estos por lo general tienen una forma redondeada o elipsoidal con un diámetro de 20-35 mm. Las numerosas aperturas de las glándulas linguales tienen un diámetro de 4-8 mm en el margen lateral o en la parte mediana de cuerpo lingual. No se observaron diferencias en los órganos gustativos linguales al comparar estos con otras especies de caudados. Estos pueden indicar funciones de los órganos gustativos de la lengua relacionadas con su hábito de vida.

Some histological studies on the pre-and postnatal development of rabbit gustatory papillae by light and scanning microscopes

The gustatory system allows animals to distinguish varieties of food and affects greatly the consumption of food, hence the health and growth of animals. In the current study the morphogenesis of gustatory papillae was investigated in rabbit during fetal and postnatal life by light and scanning electron microscopy. Tongues were obtained from rabbit fetuses starting from the embryonic day [E16] to [E30] and from newborns till maturity. At E16, the first primordial of vallate papillae were observed as epithelial thickenings at the root of the tongue. At E18, the first primordial of fungiform papillae were observed at the posterior margins of the tongue where the Ebner's gland was also observed. By E26, the primitive taste buds of foliate papillae were not found and this might be due to transient degeneration. Mature taste buds of the foliate papillae were then observed by the end of the first week. Meanwhile, mature fungiform papillae were observed at birth and the vallate papillae by the end of the second week while the foliate papillae reached their maturity by the end of the first month. It is concluded that the rudiments of rabbit gustatory papillae appeared at different stages of prenatal development where the vallate papillae appeared first followed by fungiform while foliate papillae were the last to appear. The development of fungiform and vallate papillae occurred mainly during the prenatal period while the development of foliate papillae occurred mainly after birth. The present findings were discussed with previous publications

Effect of an iron-deficient diet on rat tongue with special reference to the efficacy of iron supplementation: light and scanning electron microscopic study

Iron deficiency is the most frequent nutritional deficiency worldwide. The oral cavity is one of the first sites where iron deficiency can be clinically notes. To demonstrate the histological changes in rat tongue induced by an iron-deficient diet and to study the role of a balanced diet, containing the daily iron requirements, either alone or with daily oral iron supplementation. Young rats [4 weeks old] were divided into two groups. Group I [the control group] was further subdivided into IA and IB, which the rats were fed a balanced diet for 6 and 8 weeks, respectively. Group II was further subdivided into IIA, which included rats that were fed an iron-deficient diet for 6 weeks, and IIB, which included rats that were fed an iron-deficient diet for 6 weeks, followed by a balanced diet for 2 weeks. IIC included rats that were fed an iron-deficient diet for 6 weeks, followed by a balanced diet and daily oral iron supplementation for 2 weeks. Blood samples were collected to measure the levels of hemoglobin and serum iron. At the end of the experiment, specimens from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue were taken and prepared for light and scanning electron microscopic study. In subgroup IIA, the tongue papillae appeared deformed in shape, irregularly arranged, and widely separated. Vascular congestion and mononuclear cellular infiltration were observed in the connective tissue under the epithelium. In subgroup IIB, most of these histological changes were still observed. However, a marked improvement was observed in subgroup IIC. It was concluded that an iron-deficient diet induced structural changes in rat tongue. However, with 2 weeks of oral iron supplementation in addition to the use of the balanced diet, there was complete restoration of the tongue structure

Studies on tongue of reptilian species Psammophis sibilans, Tarentola annularis and Crocodylus niloticus / Estudios sobre la lengua de las especies de reptiles Psammophis sibilans, Tarentola annularis y Crocodylus niloticus

Three different reptilian species Psammophis sibilans (Order Ophidia), Tarentola annularis (Order Squamata and Crocodylus niloticus (Order Crocodylia) are used in the present study. Their tongue is removed and examined morphologically. Their lingual mucosa examined under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as well as processed for histological investigation. Gross morphological studies revealed variations of tongue gross structure being elongated with bifurcated end in P. sibilans or triangular flattened structure with broad base and conical free border in T. annularis or rough triangular fill almost the floor cavity in C. niloticus. At SEM, the lingual mucosa showed fine striated grooves radially arranged in oblique extension with missing of lingual papillae. Numerous microridges are detected above the cell surfaces in P. sibilans. T. annularis exhibited arrangement of conical flattened filiform papillae and abundant of microridges. However in C. niloticus, the lingual mucosa possessed different kinds of filiform papillae besides gustatory papillae and widespread arrangement of taste buds. Histologically, confirmed SEM of illustrating the lingual mucosa protrusion of stratified squamous epithelium in P. sibilans and presence of apical taste buds in conical filiform papillae of T. annularis. The lingual mucosa of C. niloticus revealed different forms of both filiform and gustatory papillae.

En el presente estudio fueron utilizados tres diferentes especies de reptiles Psammophis sibilans (Orden Ophidia), Tarentola annularis (Orden Squamata y Crocodylus niloticus (Orden Crocodylia). Sus lenguas fueron removidas y examinadas morfológicamente. Las mucosas linguales se examinaron bajo microscopio electrónico de barrido (SEM) y también procesadas para la investigación histológica. El estudio morfológico macroscópico reveló variaciones de la estructura de la lengua, siendo éstas alargadas con el extremo bifurcado en P. sibilans o de estructura triangular aplanada con una base amplia y el borde libre cónico en T. annularis o triangular rugosa llenando casi todo el suelo de la cavidad en C. niloticus. En el SEM, la mucosa lingual mostró finas ranuras estriadas dispuestas radialmente en la extensión oblicua con pérdida de las papilas linguales. Numerosas microcrestas fueron detectadas por encima de la superficie de las células en P. sibilans. T. annularis exhibiendo una disposición de papilas filiformes cónicas aplanadas y abundante de microcrestas. Sin embargo, en C. niloticus, la mucosa lingual posee diferentes tipos de papilas filiformes además de papilas gustativas con una extensa disposición de corpúsculos gustativas. Histológicamente, mediante confirmación de SEM se ilustra la protrusión del epitelio escamoso estratificado de la mucosa lingual en P. sibilans y la presencia de corpúsculos gustativos apicales en las papilas filiformes cónicas de T. annularis. La mucosa lingual de C. niloticus reveló diferentes formas de ambas papilas, filiformes y gustativas.

Estudio morfológico, morfométrico e histoquímico de los epitelios de revestimiento y glandular de la lengua de la rana toro, rana catesbeiana / Morphological, morphometrical and histochemical study of the lining and glandular epithelia of the tongue of the tullfrog rana catesbeiana

La superficie dorsal de la lengua de la rana toro, Rana catesbeiana, presenta un epitelio simple cilíndrico, constituido por células caliciformes y raras células ciliadas. El dorso de la lengua posee numerosas papilas filiformes y algunas fungiformes. Las primeras poseen un epitelio simple cilíndrico, con células secretoras, mientras que las segundas poseen en la región apical, un disco sensorial con epitelio estratificado cilíndrico, con células basales, periféricas, glandulares y receptoras. A lo largo del dorso de la lengua existen numerosas glándulas tubulares, que penetran en profundidad, entremezclándose con las fibras musculares. El epitelio glandular es simple cilíndrico, con células secretoras y de sostén. Las primeras son las únicas en la base de la glándula y las segundas solo se encuentran en número escaso en el tercio superior. La superficie ventral de la lengua posee un epitelio estratificado, con células caliciformes y, entre éstas, células ciliadas. La morfometría de las glándulas mostró que son más cortas en la región anterior de la lengua (330 um) que en la región posterior (450 um). Las células secretoras de las glándulas linguales anteriores son menores (1457,7 um3) que en las posteriores (2645,9 um3). Lo mismo ocurre con los núcleos celulares: 130,0 um3 en las glándulas anteriores y 202,3 um3 en las posteriores. Las células secretoras de las glándulas linguales sintetizan producto rico en proteínas y mucopolisacáridos neutros, pudiendo caracterizarse como seromucoso. Las células caliciformes de las superficies dorsal y ventral secretan proteínas y mucopolisacáridos neutros, clasificándose como del tipo G1, mientras que las células de sostén de las glándulas superficiales de las papilas fungiformes secretan moco rico en mucopolisacáridos neutros, sulfomucinas y sialomucinas.

The dorsal surface of the tongue of the bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana, has simple columnar epithelium with a few ciliated cells and goblet cells. The entire surface is covered with numerous filiform papillae and few fungiform. Filiform papillae have a simple columnar epithelium with secretory cells, while the fungiform have a sensory disc on their upper surface the lined by a stratified columnar epithelium with basal, peripheral, glandular and receptor cells. Over the dorsal lingual surface there are numerous winding tubular glands, which penetrate deeply into the muscle of the tongue, mingling with the fibers. The gland epithelium is cylindrical with secretory and supporting cells. The first are absolute on the basis of the gland and the latter are rare in the upper third. The ventral surface of the tongue is lined by a stratified epithelium, with the presence of goblet cells, with ciliated cells among them. Morphometrically, lingual glands varies in length, according to their location: shorter in the anterior region of the tongue (330 um) than in the posterior region (450 um). Secretory cells of the anterior lingual glands are smaller (1457.7 mm3) than the posterior ones (2645.9 um3). The same can be said of the cell nuclei, 130.0 um3 for the anterior glands and 202.3 um3 for the posterior ones. Secretory cells of the lingual glands contain substances rich in protein and neutral mucopolysaccharides, which characterize the seromucous type. Goblet cells of the dorsal and ventral surface epithelia secrete neutral mucopolysaccharides and proteins, and can be characterized as type G1 cells, and the supporting cells of the superficial glands of the fungiform papillae secrete a mucus rich in neutral mucopolysaccharides, sulfomucins and sialomucins.

Scanning electron microscopy study of the dorsal surface of the tongue of dasypus hybridus (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Dasypodidae) / Estudio al microscopio electrónico de barrido de la superficie dorsal de la lengua de Dasypus hybridus (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Dasypodidae)

The dorsum of the tongue of Dasypus hybridus (Desmarest, 1804) studied by scanning electron microscopy, shows conical and branched filiform, fungiform and vallate papillae. No foliate papillae were seen. Conical filiform papillae are placed in the apex of the tongue and posterior to the vallated ones. Branched papillae are compactly distributed over the entire dorsal surface of the tongue. Fungiform papillae are more abundant on the first third of the tongue and they are distributed between filiform papillae. Only two vallate papillae were observed placed in the posterior third of the tongue, surrounded by a deep grove. The presence of taste buds on fungiform and vallate papillae indicate that both are involved in the sense of taste, while the filiform ones have a mechanical and protective role. The morphological characteristics of the tongue of Dasypus hybridus are comparable with those of other species of armadillos.

La superficie dorsal de la lengua de Dasypus hybridus (Desmarest, 1804) estudiada a través de microscopía electrónica de barrido, muestra papilas filiformes cónicas y ramificadas, fungiformes y caliciformes. No se observaron papilas foliadas. Las papilas filiformes cónicas se observan en el ápice de la lengua, en los bordes laterales y posteriormente a las papilas caliciformes. Las filiformes ramificadas se encuentran distribuidas en forma compacta sobre toda la superficie dorsal de la lengua. Las papilas fungiformes se localizan entre las filiformes ramificadas y son más numerosas en el tercio anterior de la lengua. Sólo dos papilas caliciformes fueron encontradas ubicadas en el tercio posterior de la lengua, rodeadas por un surco profundo. La presencia de poros gustativos en las papilas fungiformes y caliciformes indica que ambas se encuentran involucradas en el sentido del gusto, mientras que las filiformes poseen un rol mecánico y de protección. Las características morfológicas de la lengua de Dasypus hybridus son comparables con las de otras especies de armadillos.

Three-dimensional characteristics of bacteriae in the filiform and fungiform papillae of rat: a TEM and HRSEM study / Características tridimensionales de bacterias en las papilas filiformesy fungiformes de rata: un estudio en MET y ARMEB

Tongue mucosae of one day postnatal rat was examined by transmission electron microscopic and HRSEMmethods.The specimens were fixed using Karnovsky solution and embedded in Spurr resin for transmission electron microscopy. For HRSEM methods, the samples were fixed in 2 percent osmiun tetroxide, dehydrated in alcohol, critical point dried and coated with gold-palladium. The results demonstrated that the surface of tongue present the filiform and fungiform papillae covered by numerous keratinized epithelial cells. The bacteriae are attached to the surfaces of microplicae at random, demonstrating in their three-dimensional HRSEM images. At high magnification, the transmission electron microscopic images revealed the adhesion of bacteriae to the cell membrane by glycocalyx. The fibrillar structures surrounding the bacteriae are clearly seen.

Un día después del nacimiento, la mucosa de la lengua una rata fue examinada por el microscopio electrónico de transmisión y método de ARMEB. Los especímenes fueron fijados mediante uan solución Karnovsky y embebido en resina Spurr para microscopía electrónica de transmisión. Para el método ARMEB, las muestras fueron fijadas en tetróxido de osmio 2 por ciento, deshidratados en alcohol, secados al punto crítico y recubierto con oro-paladio. Los resultados demostraron que la superficie de la lengua presentaba papilas filiformes y fungiformes cubiertas por numerosas células epiteliales queratinizadas. Las bacterias se unen a las superficies de las microplicas al azar, lo que se demuestra en sus tres dimensiones las imágenes en ARMEB. A gran aumento, las imágenes del microscopio electrónico de transmisión revelan la adhesión de bacterias a la membrana celular por el glicocalix. Las estructuras fibrilares que rodean a las bacterias son claramente visibles.

Scanning electron microscopy study of the dorsal surface of the tongue in Zaedyus pichiy (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Dasypodidae) / Estudio al microscopio electrónico de barrido de la superficie dorsal de la lengua de Zaedyus pichiy (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Dasypodidae

The dorsal surface of the tongue of Zaedyus pichiy (Desmarest, 1804) was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Conical and branched filiform, fungiform and vallate papillae are described. No foliate papillae were seen. Conical filiform papillae are distributed in the apex, both lateral edges and caudally to the vallated ones. The branched papillae represent the most numerous type of lingual papillae; they are distributed over the entire dorsal surface of the tongue. The fungiform papillae are placed among the filiform ones, more densely distributed on the tip of the lingual apex. In the posterior third of the tongue there are two vallated papillae surrounded by a deep circular grove. Fungiform and circumvallate papillae are related to the sense of taste; openings of taste pores are visible on their surface. The filiform papillae have a mechanical and protective role.

Se estudió la superficie dorsal de la lengua de Zaedyus pichiy (Desmarest, 1804), utilizando microscopía electrónica de barrido. Se describen papilas filiformes cónicas y ramificadas, fungiformes y caliciformes. No se observaron papilas foliadas. Las papilas filiformes cónicas se observan en el ápice de la lengua, en los bordes laterales y posteriormente a las papilas caliciformes. Las filiformes ramificadas representan el tipo más numeroso de papilas linguales y se encuentran distribuidas en toda la superficie dorsal de la lengua. Las papilas fungiformes se localizan entre las filiformes ramificadas y son más numerosas en el tercio anterior de la lengua. En el tercio posterior se observan dos papilas caliciformes rodeadas por un surco profundo. Las papilas fungiformes y caliciformes están relacionadas con el sentido del gusto, en su superficie se observan poros gustativos. Las papilas filiformes tienen funciones mecánica y de protección.

Comparative morphological studies on three sarcocystis species in Sohag, Egypt

Samples from the tongue, heart, oesophageal and skeletal muscles were collected from 100 cow and 100 buffalo from Sohag slaughterhouses. Macroscopic examination for sarcocysts was followed by microscopic ones on impression smears and compressed muscles. Histological sections and transmission electron microscope [TEM] studies were done on positive cases. Sarcocystis infection rate of cows were 84%. Two species of Sarcocystis were detected: 1-S. cruzi with a membrane provided with hairlike villar protrusions folded over the surface of the cyst. These protrusions were rod-like, round, oval or irregular in shape and were approximately parallel to the cyst surface. 2-S. hominis characterized by a cyst wall consisting of cylindrical finger-like villar protrusions and having microfilaments. The protrusions were perpendicular on the cyst surface with broad tips and contain microfilaments. Buffaloes' muscle, samples revealed an infection rate of 28%. The macroscopic fusiform-shaped species only was detected [Sarcocystis fusiformis]. The role of cyst wall ultrastructure and thickness were discussed regarding identification and pathogenicity

Ultrastructure of the adhesion of bacteria to the epithelial cell membrane of three-day postnatal rat tongue mucosa: a transmission and high-resolution scanning electron microscopic study

Togue mucosa surface of 3-day postnatal rats was examined under transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM). For HRSEM analysis, the specimens were fixed in the same solution for 24 h, postfixed in 2 percent osmiun tetroxide, critical-point dried and coated with platinum-palladium. For TEM analysis, the specimens were fixed using modified Karnovsky solution and embedded in Spurr resin. The results revealed the presence of numerous microplicae in the membrane surface of keratinized epithelial cells to which groups of bacteria were attached. These bacteria were staphylococcus and coccus organized either in rows or at random, which were visualized in three-dimensional HRSEM images. At high magnification, the TEM images revealed the adhesion of bacteria to the cell membrane through numerous filamentous structures comprising the glycocalyx. The fine fibrillar structures rising from each bacterium and from cell membrane were clearly seen. These characteristics on bacteria structure may be used for future control or prevention of bacterial diseases and for installation of the oral native flora.

A superfície lingual de ratos de três dias de idade foi examinada em microscópia eletrônica de transmissão (MET) e em microscópia eletrônica varredura de alta resolução (MEVAR). Para o método de MEVAR, os espécimes foram fixados na mesma solução por 24 h, pós fixados em solução de tetróxido de ósmio a 2 por cento, secos em ponto crítico e cobertos com platina- paládio. Para análise em MET, os espécimes foram fixados utilizando-se solução de Karnovsky modificada e emblocadas em resina Spurr. Os resultados mostraram a presença de numerosas micropregas na membrana superficial das células epiteliais queratinizadas, nas quais estavam aderidos grupos de bactérias. Estas bactérias eram estafilococos e cocos, organizados em fileiras ou a esmo, e puderam ser observadas em imagens tri-dimensionais em MEVAR. Em maiores aumentos, as imagens em MET revelaram a adesão de bactérias nas células por meio de numerosas estruturas filamentares compondo o glicocálice. As delicadas estruturas filamentares na periferia das bactérias e das células foram nitidamente identificadas. Estas características da estrutura bacteriana podem ser utilizadas, no futuro, para controle e prevenção de doenças bacteriana, bem como para a instalação da flora oral nativa.

Effects of ovariectomy and hormone replacement on the rat lingual mucosa and parotid glands: histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study

Although a close relationship between oral discomfort and menopause is suggested, it is not clear if alterations of sex steroids would cause any histological changes in the oral tissues. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effects of ovariectomy on rat lingual mucosa and the parotid glands as well as the effects of hormone replacement. Thirty adult female albino rats were included in this study. Ten animals underwent sham operation and considered as control group. The remaining twenty animals underwent ovariectomy. One month later, ten of the ovariectomized animals were given daily oral estrogen and progesteron [hormone replacement therapy group] and other ten animals were left without treatment [ovariectomized group]. Two months later, all animals were sacrificed. Tongues were sagitally cut and paraffin sections were prepared. Sections were stained with H and E and immunohistochemical staining using PCNA antibodies. The thickness of the lingual mucosa was measured using the image analyzer at the apex, dorsum and the ventral region. The parotid glands were processed for light and electron microscopy. Ovariectomized animals presented reduced thickness of the lingual mucosa especially at the tip of the tongue. The lingual papillae were partially disappeared or irregular in appearance. The results of immunohistochemistry showed prolonged turn-over period. The parotid glands demonstrated irregular pattern of the acini. The acini were smaller with hyperchromatic nuclei. There was increased connective tissue and mast cell infiltration. Ultrastructurally, the cells of the acini showed few irregular secretory granules and increased rough endoplasmic reticulum with vacuolization. Hormone replacement partially compensated for these changes. The overall results suggested that sex steroids had a specific role in the maintenance of normal lingual mucosa and parotid glands, and that their deficiency might lead to the onset of oral discomfort in menopausal women which could be reversed by HRT

Aspectos histológicos e ultraestruturais da língua em ratos desnutridos / Histological and ultrastructural aspects of the tongue in undernourished rats

Poucos estudos sobre os efeitos da desnutrição protéico-calórica na mucosa oral são encontrados na literatura. OBJETIVOS: O objetivo deste trabalho é verificar os efeitos da desnutrição protéico-calórica na mucosa da língua de ratos adultos, envolvendo microscopia óptica e eletrônica de varredura. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Um estudo experimental foi realizado em trinta ratos Wistar, 15 controles e 15 com desnutrição protéico-calórica. O último grupo recebeu ração em pequena quantidade, com menor conteúdo de caseína, durante 45 dias. Os ratos foram pesados a cada 3 dias, do primeiro (90 dias de vida) ao último dia (45 dias de dieta), quando foram sacrificados. Foi realizada eletroforese de proteínas plasmáticas e as línguas foram preparadas para microscopia óptica comum e eletrônica. Para análise estatística utilizou-se análise de variância e teste T de Student. RESULTADOS: Foi observada uma significante diminuição no peso e nas proteínas plasmáticas dos ratos com desnutrição protéico-calórica em relação ao grupo controle. A análise histológica não mostrou diferenças entre os dois grupos, e os resultados, com respeito à contagem das papilas filiformes da mucosa lingual pela microscopia eletrônica, não revelou diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: A desnutrição protéico-calórica não causa alterações na mucosa da língua de ratos adultos.

There are few published studies on the effects of protein-caloric undernourishment on the oral mucosa. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study is to verify the histological and ultrastructural aspects of the tongue mucosa in protein-caloric undernourished adult rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A clinical experimental study was done in thirty Wistar rats, 15 controls and 15 with protein-caloric undernourishment. The last group received ration in small amounts, with a reduced casein content, during 45 days. Rats were weighed every 3 days, from the first (90 days of life) to the last day of a 45-day dietary period, when they were sacrificed. Plasma was used for protein electrophoresis and their tongues were prepared for light and scanning electron microscopy. Analysus of variance and StudentÆs t-test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: A significant decrease in weight and in plasma proteins was found in protein-caloric undernourished rats compared to the control group. Histological findings revealed no differences between the two groups and there were no statistically significant differences in the filiform papilla count under the scanning electron microscopy. CONCLUSION: Protein-caloric undernourishment does not cause alterations in the tongue mucosa of adult rats.

Liquen plano oral, carcinoma de células escamosas y carcinoma verrugoso de Ackerman: reporte de un caso / Oral lichen planus, squamous cell carcinoma and Ackerman verrucous carcinoma: report of a case

El Liquen Plano Bucal (LPB) es una enfermedad mucocutánea, de carácter inflamatorio, y de curso crónico. La Organización Mundial de la Salud incluyó al LPB como un estado precanceroso definiendo como tal, a un proceso generalizado que se asocia con un riesgo significativamente mayor de presentar cáncer. Numerosos estudios han documentado el potencial premaligno del LPB. Sin embargo, la asociación del LPB a lesiones malignas es hasta el momento un tema controvertido. El objetivo de este trabajo es comunicar un caso de LPB, Carcinoma de Células Escamosas (CCE) y Carcinoma Verrugoso de Ackerman (CVA) en un paciente de 59 años de edad quien no refirió tener hábitos de uso de tabaco o consumo de alcohol. Los tres tipos de lesiones fueron diagnosticadas simultáneamente , en la misma localización anatómica. El reporte de este nuevo caso clínico sugeriría la necesidad de realizar exámenes de seguimiento regulares a los pacientes con LPB, en especial a quienes presentan formas atróficas-erosivas y/o factores de riesgo.

Prenatal and postnatal development of the lingual papillae in albino rat: light and scanning electron microscopic study

Adult albino rats of the Sprague- Dawley strain were caged together for 24 hours [every three estrous females with an adult male] and their resultant embryos and off springs were used in this study. The tongues of ten animals in each of the following prenatal age groups [16 and 20 days or E16- Group I and E20- Group 2 respectively] and another ten in each of the following postnatal age groups [7 and 21 days or P7- Group 3 and P21 - Group 4] were used. The lingual papillae in the tongues of the different age groups were studied using both light and scanning electron microscopy. In the prenatal group 1 [E16], the dorsal lingual epithelium was noticed to be stratified squamous epitheliumn with poorly developed vallate papillae. No evidence of keratinization, fungiform, or filiform papillae were visible a the dorsal surface of the tongue, while in group 2 [E20], few fungiform papillae and numerous rounded tips of filiform ones became visible. Also, a thin layer of keratin was clearly located at the tip of each, filiforin papilla. At later stages of development [P7 and P21], the filiformn papillae appeared longer, more slender with pointed tips, and the keratin layer increased in thickness. The primordia of the circumvallate papillae appeared as small rounded elevated areas on the dorsal surface of the tongue at E16. At E20 a solid epithelial downgrowth appeared on either side of the papilla in which future taste bud cells appeared. The glitter started to open at P7 and became well formed at P21. The taste buds were identified on both walls of the developing gutter, and they then gradually enlarged. Taste bud cells became differentiated into gustatory and supporting cells at P7 to P21 age groups