Development of a tau-V337M mouse model using CRISPR/Cas9 system and enhanced ssODN-mediated recombination / 生物工程学报

The generation of a tau-V337M point mutation mouse model using gene editing technology can provide an animal model with fast disease progression and more severe symptoms, which facilitate the study of pathogenesis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, single guide RNAs (sgRNA) and single-stranded oligonucleotides (ssODN) were designed and synthesized in vitro. The mixture of sgRNA, Cas9 protein and ssODN was microinjected into the zygotes of C57BL/6J mice. After DNA cutting and recombination, the site homologous to human 337 valine (GTG) in exon 11 was mutated into methionine (ATG). In order to improve the efficiency of recombination, a Rad51 protein was added. The female mice mated with the nonvasectomy male mice were used as the surrogates. Subsequently, the 2-cell stage gene edited embryos were transferred into the unilateral oviduct, and the F0 tau-V337M mutation mice were obtained. Higher mutation efficiency could be obtained by adding Rad51 protein. The F0 tau-V337M point mutation mice can pass the mutation on to the F1 generation mice. In conclusion, this study successfully established the first tau-V337M mutation mouse by using Cas9, ssODN and Rad51. These results provide a new method for developing AD mice model which can be used in further research on the pathogenesis and treatment of AD.

Histopathological characterization of the reproductive organs of heifers experimentally infected with Campylobacter fetus venerealis / Caracterización histopatológica de los órganos reproductivos de vaquillonas experimentalmente infectadas con Campylobacter fetus venerealis / Caracterização histopatológica em órgãos reprodutores de novilhas infetadas no modo experimental com Campylobacter fetus venerealis

Abstract Background: Bovine campylobacteriosis is a venereal disease due to infection with Campylobacter fetus venerealis. It causes mainly reproductive failures that lead to considerable economic losses. Objective: To perform a histopathological description of the mucosa from reproductive organs of heifers experimentally infected with Campylobacter fetus venerealis. Methods: Twelve 15-18-months-old Aberdeen Angus heifers were treated for estrous synchronization and exposed to natural breeding. They were then randomly divided into two groups: group A (n=9) was inoculated with C. fetus venerealis; group B (n=3, control) was inoculated with a placebo. Ultrasonography was performed at days 29, 38, and 42 post-breeding, and plasmatic progesterone levels were quantified using ELISA to confirm pregnancies. Animals in group A with plasma progesterone levels below 1 ng/mL and/or diagnosed as non-pregnant were further divided into three subgroups: A1 (n=4), euthanized at day 30 post-breeding; A2 (n=3), euthanized at day 40 post-breeding and A3 (n=2), euthanized at day 55 post-breeding. Heifers from group B, all diagnosed as pregnant, were euthanized each at day 30, 40, and 55 days post-breeding as well. Histological sections from every group were taken from oviducts, uterus, and vagina. Results: Lymphocytic inflammation was the most common lesion in all infected heifers. Trophoblast cells were found in the non-pregnant heifers euthanized at days 40, and 55 post-breeding. The inflammatory process with the presence of lymphoid cells probably altered the balance in the activity of maternal lymphoid cells, as well as gene expression of the trophoblast, finally affecting the embryo survival. Conclusion: This work contributes to the understanding of the histopathological process involved in post-mating infection of Campylobacter fetus bovine.

Resumen Antecedentes: La campilobacteriosis bovina es una enfermedad venérea causada por el Campylobacter fetus venerealis, que produce principalmente fallas reproductivas ocasionando grandes pérdidas económicas Objetivo: Describir las características histopatológicas de la mucosa de órganos reproductores de vaquillonas infectadas experimentalmente con Campylobacter fetus venerealis. Métodos: Doce vaquillonas Aberdeen Angus (15 a 18 meses de edad) con celo sincronizado, recibieron servicio natural, e inmediatamente se dividieron aleatoriamente en dos grupos: A (n=9), inoculadas con Campylobacter fetus venerealis; B (n=3; control), inoculadas con placebo. El diagnóstico de preñez se realizó por ultrasonografía a los 29, 38 y 42 días post-servicio; los niveles plasmáticos de progesterona fueron determinados por ELISA. Las vaquillonas del grupo A con niveles de progesterona plasmáticos menores a 1 ng/mL y/o diagnosticadas no preñadas, fueron consideradas para eutanasia y divididas en tres subgrupos: A1-eutanasia día 30 (n=4); A2-día 40 (n=3); y A3-día 55 (n=2) post-servicio. Las vaquillonas del grupo B, diagnosticadas preñadas, fueron eutanasiadas a los 30, 40 y 55 días. Se tomaron muestras de oviductos, útero y vagina. Resultados: Se observó inflamación linfocitaria en la totalidad de muestras del grupo A. Células trofoblásticas fueron encontradas en muestras correspondientes a los grupos A2 y A3. Probablemente, el proceso inflamatorio alteró el equilibrio de las células linfoides maternas y la expresión génica del trofoblasto, afectando la supervivencia embrionaria. Conclusión: Este trabajo contribuye a la comprensión del proceso histopatológico involucrado en la infección poscoital por Campylobacter fetus bovino.

Resumo Antecedentes: A campilobacteriose bovina é uma doença venérea originada pelo Campylobacter fetus venerealis, quem produz principalmente falha reprodutiva e porém grandes perdas económicas. Objetivo: Descrever as características histopatológicas da mucosa dos órgãos reprodutores de novilhas infetadas no modo experimental com Campylobacter fetus venerealis. Métodos: Doze novilhas Aberdeen Angus de 15 até 18 meses com cio sincronizado, receberam serviço natural. Logo após, foram aleatóreamente separados em grupos: A (n=9) inoculados com Campylobacter fetus venerealis e grupo B (n=3; controle) inoculadas com um placebo. O diagnóstico da gestação foi realizado por ultrasom nos dias 29, 38 y 42 pós-serviço. Os níveis plasmáticos da progesterona foram determinados por ELISA. As novilhas do grupo A, com níveis plasmáticos de progesterona menores a 1 ng/mL e/ou diagnosticadas não grávidas, foram consideradas para eutanásia e foram divididas em três subgrupos: A1-eutanásia aos 30 dias pós- serviço (n=4); A2-dia 40 (n=3); A3-dia 55 (n=2). Foram realizada eutanásia ás novilhas do grupo B diagnosticadas prenhadas, aos 30, 40 e 55 dias e a amostragem de ovidutos, útero e vagina. Resultados: A presença de inflamação linfocitária foi observada na totalidade das amostras do grupo A. Foram achadas células trofoblásticas nas amostras correspondente aos grupos A2 e A3. Provavelmente, pelo processo inflamatório tenha sido alterado o equilíbrio das células linfoides maternas, assim também como a expressão gênica do trofoblasto, afetando a supervivência embrionária. Conclusão: Este trabalho contribue á compreensão do processo histopatologico na infecção com Campylobacter fetus bovino pós-acasalamento.

Expression of S100A8 and S100A9 in oviduct epithelial cells induced by estrogen and their possible role in oviduct / 中国药理学通报

Aim To study whether the genes S100A8 and S100A9 are related to the functional regulation of oviduct by estrogen, and to explore their possible effects on fallopian tubes. Methods The basic expression and distribution of S100A8 and S100A9 in ampullary oviduct tissues of healthy sheep in diestrum were verified by immunohistochemistry. The expressions of S100A8 and S100A9 (mRNA and protein) in oviduct epithelial cells were detected by q-PCR and immunofluorescence, the cells were treated by E2 at different time points and different concentrations. Results S100A8 and S100A9 were highly expressed in mucosal epithelium and glandular epithelium of sheep uterine tubes during the diestrum period, and in blood vessels as well. The expression of S100A8 and S100A9 in tubal epithelial cells changed dynamically at different time ponits under the action of high concentration of E2 in vitro, and reached the peak 6 hours after E2 treatment. At this time, different concentrations of E2 significantly induced the high expression of S100A8 and S100A9, but the expressions of S100A8 and S100A9 were the highest at the concentrations of 10-7 mol • L-1 and 10-8 mol • L-1 , and there was no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusions S100A8 and S100A9 in oviduct epithelial cells are regulated by estrogen. Under the regulation of high concentration estrogen, the high expression of SI00A8 and S100A9 may be related to the natural defense of reproductive tract during mating, and may be involved in the transport of eggs in fallopian tube.

Effect of laparoscopic salpingotomy on ovarian reserve function in patients with tubal pregnancy / 中国综合临床

Objective To investigate the effect of laparoscopic salpingotomy and salpingectomy on ovarian reserve function in patients with tubal pregnancy??Methods From October 2014 to March 2017,201 cases of tubal pregnancy in Jizhong energy Fengfeng Group Hospital were selected and divided into observation group (112 cases) and control group (89 cases) according to different treatment methods??The observation group was treated with laparoscopic salpingectomy, while the control group was treated with laparoscopic salpingectomy??The number of sinus follicles and ovarian volume were measured by color Doppler ultrasound at third days of menstruation on first,third,sixth months after the operation respectively and the ovulation was detected in 6 months after the operation??The intrauterine pregnancy of the two groups was observed one year after operation??Results There was no significant difference in the number and volume of healthy ovarian antral follicles between the two groups in 1,3 and 6 months after operation respectively (all P＞0??05)??The number of sinus follicles in the 1,3 and 6 months after the operation were (7??71 ± 3??12), (7??86 ± 2??03) and (7??65 ± 1??89) in observation group respectively,while that in the control group were (4??06 ± 1??05),(3??91 ± 1??14) and (4??89±2??03)respectively??There was no significant difference in the number of sinus follicles in different time groups ( Fintra?group＝0??573,P＞0??05)??The difference between the groups was statistically significant (F inter?grouP＝634??306,P＜0??01,Finteraction＝463??257,P＜0??01)??The ovarian volume of the patients in the 1,3 and 6 months after the operation were (8??49 ± 1??67),(9??01 ± 3??07) and ( 8??51 ± 2??67) cm3 in observation group respectively, and were ( 5??70 ± 2??58), ( 4??81 ± 2??10) and ( 6??03 ± 1??96) cm3 in control group respectively??There was no significant difference in the ovarian volume of the affected side at different time points after operation( Fintra?group＝0??671,P＞0??05)??The difference between the groups was statistically significant ( Finter?group＝ 449??106, P＜ 0??01 ), F interaction＝ 261??017, P＜ 0??01 )??The ovulation rate at 6 months ( 82??1%, 92／112 ) and intrauterine pregnancy rate at 1 year ( 71??8%,79／110) in the observation group were higher than those in the control group (56??2%,50／89) and (31??0%,27／87)??There were significant differences between the two groups(χ2＝12??601,28??753,all P＜0??05)??Conclusion Laparoscopic salpingotomy is better than salpingectomy in the treatment of tubal pregnancy??The ovulation rate and intrauterine pregnancy rate are also superior to salpingectomy??It shows that laparoscopic fenestration can protect the ovarian reserve reserve function and reproductive function of patients??

Morfologia de órgãos genitais femininos de quelônio semi-aquático Mesoclemmys vanderhaegei / Morphology of the female genital organs of freshwater turtle Mesoclemmys vanderhaegei

O Mesoclemmys vanderhaegei (Testudines: Chelidae) é um quelônio de água doce cuja ocorrência é descrita nas bacias dos rios Amazonas, Tocantins, Paraguai, Paraná e Uruguai. Consta na lista vermelha de espécies ameaçadas da International Union for Conservation of Nature, como espécie de baixo risco, mas que poderá se tornar ameaçada, sendo necessário a atualização de seus dados ecológicos e biológicos. Considerando que planos de manejo e conservação de espécies dependem também de vasto conhecimento sobre a biologia reprodutiva, apresentamos a primeira descrição macroscópica dos órgãos genitais de fêmeas jovens e adultas de M. vanderhaegei correlacionando esses achados ao tamanho do espécime e ao período do ano. Exemplares de M. vanderhaegei foram coletados no município de Chapada dos Guimarães, área de ampla ocorrência natural da espécie. A descrição dos órgãos genitais foi realizada a partir de 17 fêmeas fixadas em formol a 10% e dissecadas para evidenciação de particularidades relacionadas à anatomia externa e interna. Os órgãos genitais M. vanderhaegei jovens e adultas são constituídos por pares de ovários e ovidutos que desembocam dorsolateralmente na cloaca, formando junto com o ureter a papila urogenital. Os ovários são órgãos alongados, com a extremidade cranial mais larga e caudal afunilada, já os ovidutos são longos e localizados lateralmente aos ovários, sendo em adultas, muito diferenciado na sua forma e tamanho em relação ao das jovens. Em ambas faixas etárias, os órgãos genitais são sustentados por pregas de membrana celomática que emergem do teto da cavidade, constituindo os mesovário e mesoviduto. De acordo com a forma e o padrão de mucosa do oviduto em fêmeas adultas, o segmento cranial corresponde as regiões do infundíbulo e magnum, o segmento médio, ao istmo e no caudal identificam-se as regiões útero e vagina. No assoalho do urodeum aloja-se o clitóris. O comprimento retilíneo de carapaça e massa corpórea entre fêmeas imaturas e adultas variam, respectivamente, entre 134-155,6mm e 134,43-365g. A maioria das fêmeas jovens foram capturadas no período chuvoso e as adultas sem e com ovos no período seco. As características macroscópicas dos órgãos genitais observadas em M. vanderhaegei são compartilhadas com outros Testudines, exceto pela papila urogenital e presença do clitóris.(AU)

Mesoclemmys vanderhaegei (Testudines: Chelidae) is a freshwater turtle with occurrence in Amazon, Tocantins, Paraguai, Paraná and Uruguai rivers basins. Although according to International Union for Conservation of Nature, it has low risk of extinction, there is an uptade necessity of ecological and biological data. Considering that the management and conservation plans are related to a wide knowledge of reproductive biology, a first macroscopic description about the young and adults females of M. vanderhaegei is important. These points were correlated to the specimens size and period of the year. The samples of M. vanderhaegei were collected in Chapada dos Guimarães county, Mato Grosso, Brazil, an area of large natural occurrence of the specimens. Genital organs of seventeen females were fixed in 10% formalin and then dissected to demonstrate the particularities related to external and internal anatomy. The young and adult M. vanderhaegei genitals organs are composed of ovaries and oviducts pairs that dorsolaterally discharge into the cloaca, forming with the ureter, the urogenital papilla. The ovaries are elongated organs with larger cranial and elongated caudal portions. The oviducts, which are in adults very differentiated in its shape and size compared to the young, are long and located laterally to the ovaries. In both age groups, the genital organs are supported by celomatic membrane folds that emerge from the ceiling of the cavity, constituting the mesovary and mesoviduct. In adult females, according to the shape and pattern of the oviduct mucosa, the cranial segment corresponds to the regions of the infundibulum and magnum; the middle segment, the isthmus and the caudal segment identify the uterus and vagina regions. The clitoris is sited on the floor of the urodeum. The carapace linear length and body mass between immature and adult females vary to 134-155.6mm e 134.43-365g respectively. The main part of young females was captured in rainy period and the adults, with and without eggs, at dry period. The macroscopic characteristics of the M. vanderhaegei genital organs are also observed in others Testudines, with the exception of urogenital papilla and by the clitoris presence.(AU)

Segment­ specific expression of MMP/TIMP in the oviduct of llama (Lama glama) and gelatinolytic activity in the oviductal fluid / Expresión segmento específica de MMP/TIMP en el oviducto de llama (Lama glama) y actividad gelatinolítica en el fluido oviductal

Oviductal molecules have the potential to improve the reproductive biotechnologies. In camelids, knowledge and assessment of the oviductal environment are necessary to successfully develop species-specific reproductive technologies, especially because of the camelids reproductive particularities. Among the oviductal factors, the matrix metalloproteinases/tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases system (MMPs/TIMPs) should be investigated more thoroughly due to their participation in reproductive processes. Consequently, the current study assayed gene and protein expression of MMPs throughout the llama oviduct. MMPs zymogen and active forms in the oviductal fluid were also characterized. MMP2 and MMP9 transcripts were detected in ampulla, isthmus, utero-tubal junction and papilla, being MMP2 and MMP9 2.15 and 1.10 folds higher in papilla than in ampulla, respectively. In addition, differences in immunolocalization of MMP2 and MMP9 between the epithelial mucosa layers of the oviductal segments were observed. The presence of MMPs in the epithelium suggests their secretion into the oviductal lumen. Coincidently, bands of 62 and 94 kDa, corresponding to MMP2 and MMP9 were detected by zymography in the oviductal fluid. Treatment with an exogenous activator (APMA) suggests that they are present as proMMPs. TIMP2 and TIMP1, the specific inhibitors of MMP2 and MMP9, respectively, were expressed in each oviductal segment, indicating a well-regulated control of MMP proteolytic activity in the oviduct. These findings prove that the llama oviduct produces and secretes MMPs into the oviductal lumen, suggesting that these enzymes may have an unknown role in the preparation of the oviductal environment for gametes, fertilization and early embryo development in camelids.

Las moléculas oviductales tienen el potencial para mejorar las biotecnologías reproductivas. En los camélidos, debido a sus peculiares características reproductivas, el conocimiento del ambiente oviductal constituye una herramienta útil para el desarrollo de tecnologías reproductivas específicas para estas especies. Entre los factores oviductales de interés se encuentran las metaloproteasas de matriz (MMPs) y sus inhibidores específicos (TIMPs), los cuales han sido involucrados en diferentes procesos reproductivos. Por estas razones, en este trabajo se caracterizó la expresión génica y proteica de MMP2 y MMP9 en el oviducto de llama. Además, se analizó la presencia de las formas activas e inactivas (zimógenos) de estas enzimas en el fluido oviductal. Se observó que todos los segmentos oviductales, ámpula, istmo, unión útero-tubal y papila, expresan MMP2 y MMP9, siendo los niveles de expresión de MMP2 y MMP9 más elevados en papila respecto a ámpula; 2,15 y 1,10 veces respectivamente. Asimismo, se observaron diferencias en la distribución de las MMPs a nivel de la mucosa entre los segmentos oviductales. Consecuentemente, bandas con actividad gelatinolítica de 62 y 94 kDa, se detectaron en el fluido oviductal, las cuales corresponderían a las formas inactivas de la MMP2 y la MMP9, respectivamente. Los inhibidores específicos de MMP2 y MMP9; TIMP2 y TIMP1, también se detectaron en los segmentos oviductales, indicando su probable participación en la regulación de la actividad proteolítica de las MMPs en el oviducto de llama. En conjunto, los datos de este trabajo demuestran que el oviducto de la llama produce y secreta MMPs al lumen oviductal; sugiriendo que estas enzimas pueden participar en la preparación del ambiente oviductal para la recepción de los gametos, la fecundación y el desarrollo embrionario temprano en camélidos.

Adição da proteína específica do oviduto de porcas (pOSP) e da melatonina em meios de maturação e o efeito na clivagem in vitro de embriões suínos / Addition of the oviduct specific protein of porcine (pOSP) and melatonin in maturation media and their effect on the in vitro production of pig embryos

No presente estudo, utilizou-se a melatonina e a proteína específica do oviduto (pOSP) nos meios de maturação in vitro. Foram avaliadas a expansão do complexo cumulus-ovócito (CCOs), as concentrações intracelulares de espécies reativas de oxigênio (ROS) e o desenvolvimento embrionário nos diferentes grupos (C = controle; T1 = somente com melatonina; T2 = com melatonina e pOSP e T3 somente com pOSP). No tocante à expansão do CCOs, houve diferença (P<0,05) dos valores obtidos no grupo C em relação aos valores médios dos grupos T1, T2 e T3, porém não houve diferença entre os valores obtidos nos tratamentos (P>0,05). Na dosagem de ROS, não houve diferença entre os valores médios obtidos no grupo C (26,4±10,9) e o valor verificado no grupo T1 (23,4±7,8), porém no grupo T2 (21,3±9,7) o valor médio mostrou-se satisfatório em relação ao valor do grupo C. No entanto, o valor médio do grupo T3 (16,6±10,5) foi o que demonstrou resultado mais satisfatório quando comparado aos demais grupos (P<0,05). A produção de embriões foi avaliada por meio da taxa de clivagem. Não houve diferença (P >0,05) entre os valores obtidos entre o grupo C (48,9 %) e os valores verificados nos grupos T1 (51,5 %), T2 (50 %), T3 (57,7 %), nem destes entre si. Este estudo permitiu concluir que a proteína específica do oviduto recombinante e a melatonina foram eficientes em melhorar a expansão dos CCOs. Além disso, as células tratadas com pOSP mostraram-se com menor quantidade de ROS, podendo a pOSP ser considerada um antioxidante proteico.(AU)

The present study used melatonin and recombinant oviduct specific protein (pOSP) in in vitro maturation medium (IVM). The expansion of the cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), the intracellular concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and embryo development of the different groups were evaluated (C = control; T1 = melatonin; T2 = melatonin and pOSP and T3 = pOSP). Regarding the COCs expansion, the groups T1, T2 and T3 showed satisfactory results compared with group C (P<0.05), but there was no difference between treatments (P>0.05). In the ROS dosage, there was no difference between the mean values obtained in group C (26.4 ± 10.9) and group 1 (23.4 ± 7.8). However, in group 2 (21.3 ± 9.7), the average value was found to be satisfactory in relation group C. Despite that, the average value of treatment 3 (16.6 ± 10.5) was the most satisfactory result found compared to the other groups (P<0.05). The production of embryos was evaluated by cleavage rate, there was no difference between the values obtained in group C and the values recorded in groups T1 (51.5 %), T2 (50 %), T3 (57.7 %), and among them. This study showed that the pOSP and the melatonin were effective in the improvement of the expansion of COCs cells. In addition, the cells that were treated with pOSP presented a lower amount of ROS, allowing the pOSP to be considered a proteic antioxidant.(AU)

Observaciones sobre la Morfología del Oviducto del Coipo (Myocastor coypus) / Observations on Oviduct Morphology of the Coypu (Myocastor coypus)

Se efectuaron los análisis anatómico e histoarquitectónico del oviducto del coipo (Myocastor coypus) en la madurez sexual. Se trabajó con 34 oviductos que fueron segmentados en infundíbulo, ampolla, unión ámpulo-ístmica, istmo cefálico, medio y caudal y procesados con técnicas histológicas de rutina. Los oviductos se observaron como órganos tubulares y tortuosos, con amplia superficie infundibular, marcada flexura en la unión con los cuernos uterinos y el desarrollo de un colículo en la unión útero-tubárica. La mucosa presentó plegamientos que disminuyeron en número, grado de ramificación y altura desde la ampolla hasta los comienzos de la unión útero-tubárica. El epitelio de revestimiento estuvo compuesto por células ciliadas y células secretoras. En el infundíbulo y el istmo fue cilíndrico simple, en tanto que en la ampolla fue seudoestratificado cilíndrico. En las regiones caudales del istmo se observaron criptas revestidas por un epitelio cilíndrico de aspecto secretor. La lámina propia fue de tejido conectivo laxo y muy vascularizado. La túnica muscular incrementó su grosor y complejidad desde el infundíbulo a la unión útero-tubárica.

Anatomical and histoachitectonic analyses of coypu (Myocastor coypus) oviduct were performed at sexual maturity. Thirty-four oviducts were segmented into: infundibulum, ampulla, cephalic istmus, middle and caudal. Routine histological techniques were used. Oviducts were observed as tubular and tortuous organs with a wide infundibular surface, a pronounce flexure at junction of the uterine horns and with a colliculus at the utero-tubaric junction. The oviductal wall was composed of the mucosal, muscular and serosal tunics. The mucosal tunic showed foldings that diminished in number, ramification and height from the ampulla to the beginning of the utero-tubaric junction. The lining epithelium was composed of ciliated cells as well as secretory cells. In the infundibulum and isthmus, it was simple and cylindrical, while in the ampoule it was cylindrical pseudo-stratified. In the caudal regions of the isthmus, crypts covered by a cylindrical epithelium with secretroy aspect were observed. The lamina propria was composed of highly vascularized lax connective tissue. The muscular tunic increased its thickness and complexity from the infundibulum to the utero-tubaric junction.

Morphology of the urogenital papilla and its component ducts in Astyanax altiparanae Garutti & Britski, 2000 (Characiformes: Characidae)

The histological description of the urogenital papilla is an important tool to comprehension of the reproductive mechanisms in fish, as well as a pre-requisite to germ cell transplantation in adult fish, besides to be a good biological indicator to environmental changes. Was performed the histological description of the urogenital papilla and its component ducts in the tetra Astyanax altiparanae. The genital and urinay ducts pass separately throughout most part of its extension, joining in a single duct before opening. In males this opening is asymmetric and seems to have double origin, being completely surrounded by striated muscle fibers, while in females it is symmetric and the muscle fibers does not surround it totally. Spermatic duct and oviduct undergo changes throughout their extension, mainly in the morphology of the surrounding epithelium. In the spermatic duct, squamous epithelial cells change to columnar and cuboid with possible secretory activity, close to testes. In the oviduct, anteriorly epithelial cells are also squamous, however, close to ovary there are lamellae composed by a pseudostratified epithelium with columnar and cuboid cells. The urinary duct is highly similar for both sexes presenting globoid cells, which description is known in mammals, however, rare in fish.

A descrição histológica da papila urogenital é uma importante ferramenta para a compreensão dos mecanismos reprodutivos em peixes, assim como um pré-requisito para a realização do transplante de células germinativas em peixes adultos, além de um bom indicador biológico de possíveis alterações ambientais. Foi realizada a investigação histológica da papila urogenital e seus ductos constituintes no lambari Astyanax altiparanae. Os ductos genital e urinário ocorrem separadamente ao longo de maior parte de sua extensão, entretanto, unem-se em um ducto simples antes de abrir para o meio externo. Nos machos esta abertura é assimétrica e parece ter dupla origem, sendo completamente envolvida por fibras musculares estriadas, enquanto nas fêmeas ela é simétrica e as fibras musculares não a envolve totalmente. O ducto espermático e oviducto sofrem alterações ao longo de sua extensão, principalmente na morfologia do epitélio que os envolve. No ducto espermático as células epiteliais passam de pavimentosas a colunares e cuboides, com possível atividade secretora, à medida que se aproxima dos testículos. No oviducto, anteriormente as células também são epiteliais pavimentosas, entretanto, próximo aos ovários, formam-se lamelas compostas por um epitélio pseudoestratificado composto por células cuboides e colunares. O ducto urinário é bastante similar em ambos os sexos apresentando células globosas, cuja descrição é conhecida em mamíferos, porém rara em peixes.

HISTOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM OF MALE AND FEMALE HATCHLINGS OF THE MAGDALENA RIVER TURTLE (Podocnemis lewyana) / Descripción histológica del sistema reproductivo de machos y hembras de la tortuga del Río Magdalena (Podocnemis lewyana)

In this study we described the macroscopic and microscopic histology of the reproductive system of male and female Podocnemis lewyana neonates (3.5 months old). We found macroscopic differences in the morphology of the gonads between the sexes, with ovaries being twice as long as testes, and testes being twice as wide as ovaries. Microscopically, we identified several immature elements, such as the lack of a muscle layer in the oviduct of females, and simple epithelia instead of pseudostratified epithelia in the oviduct and epididymis described in reptile adults. We also found a black pigment observed macroscopically in the mesovarium, and macroscopically and histologically in the epididymis. This pigment is consistent with the center of melano-macrophages described in other vertebrates. Finally we described a supporting mesenchymal structure, the appendage of the oviduct, which was much longer than what has been described in other Podocnemis species.

En este estudio se realizó una descripción macro y microscópica del sistema reproductivo de tortugas machos y hembras de neonatos de Podocnemis lewyana de 3,5 meses de edad. Se hallaron diferencias macroscópicas en las gónadas, esto es, el ovario fue el doble de largo relativo al testículo, pero el testículo fue el doble de ancho relativo al ovario. Microscópicamente se identificaron varios elementos inmaduros tales como la ausencia de una capa muscular reportada en el oviducto de hembras de reptiles adultas, y epitelios simples en lugar de epitelios pseudoestratificados en oviducto y epidídimo en reptiles adultos. También se describe un pigmento negro observado macroscópicamente en el mesoovario de las hembras, y macroscópica e histológicamente en el epidídimo de los machos. Este pigmento es compatible con los centros de melanomacrófagos reportados en otros vertebrados. Finalmente, se describe también una estructura mesenquimatosa de soporte que identificamos como el apéndice del oviducto, la cual fue mucho más larga que las descritas en otras especies de Podocnemis.

Desenvolvimento folicular e desempenho produtivo no início do ciclo de postura em duas raças de poedeiras / Follicular development and productive performance at the onset of production in two egg-laying breeds

Avaliaram-se as características reprodutivas de duas raças puras de poedeiras semipesadas. Foram utilizadas 800 fêmeas, 400 da raça Plymouth Rock White (PRW) e 400 da raça Plymouth Rock Barred (PRB) no período compreendido entre a 16ª e a 24ª semanas de idade, quando todas as aves tiveram o mesmo manejo e receberam água e ração ad libitum. Semanalmente, foram mensurados os parâmetros peso corporal, consumo alimentar, taxa de postura, conversão alimentar, peso dos ovos, peso de oviduto e número de folículos ovarianos. Foi utilizado um delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC) com dois tratamentos (PRW e PRB) e cinco repetições de oitenta aves cada, sendo que os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e as médias comparadas pelo teste "T" de Student a 5% de significância. Observou-se que na 24ª semana de idade as aves da raça PRW apresentaram uma maior taxa de postura (P=0,006) e melhor conversão alimentar (P=0,020), comparado às aves da raça PRB. As aves PRB apresentaram maior peso corporal, comparado ao peso das PRW, entretanto, o peso do oviduto em relação ao peso corporal na 24ª semana e o número de folículos grandes amarelos na 20ª semana de idade foram maiores nas aves da raça PRW, comparado com as aves da raça PRB (P=0,029). Aves poedeiras da raça PRW são mais eficientes nos parâmetros produtivos e apresentam o desenvolvimento do aparelho reprodutivo mais precoce em relação às aves da PRB.

It was evaluated the reproductive traits of two pure breed laying hens. There were used 800 females, 400 White Plymouth Rock (PRW) and 400 Barred Plymouth Rock pullets, from 16 to 24 week of age. Pullets were managed in the same manner and received water and feed ad libitum. Body weight, feed intake, hen-day egg production, feed conversion, egg weight, oviduct weight and number of ovarian follicles were weekly measured. It was used a completely randomized design with two breeds (PRW and PRB) and five replicates of 80 pullets. The data were submitted to ANOVA and means compared by Student's T test 5% of significance. At 24 weeks of age the PRW pullets had a higher egg production (P=0.006) and better feed conversion (P=0.020) than the PRBs. The PRBs presented higher body weight than the PRWs, however, the number of large yellow follicles at 20 weeks, and the relative oviduct weight at 24 weeks of age were greater in the PRW pullets (P=0.029). The PRW pullets were more efficient in the production parameters and were more precocious in the development of the reproductive tract than PRB pullets.

Comparison of Fertility Rates Between Laparoscopic and Open Oviduct Anastomosis / 中国微创外科杂志

Objective-To-study-the-clinical-characteristics-of-laparoscopic-oviduct-anastomosis-for-the-treatment-of-fallopian-tube-sterilization-or-tubal-infertility-.-Methods-A-total-of-48-cases-of-fallopian-tube-sterilization-or-tubal-infertility-patients-underwent-oviduct-anastomosis-between-January-2006-and-August-2013-in-our-hospital-.The-patients-were-divided-equally-into-laparoscopic-surgery-group-(laparoscopic-group,-24-cases)-or-open-surgery-group-(open-group,-24-cases)-in-chronological-order.The-ratio-of-infertility-patient-was-equal-in-both-laparoscopic-surgery-group-and-open-surgery-group-.Repatency-rate-and-pregnancy-rate-of-different-surgical-procedures-were-analyzed-,-respectively-.-Results-All-the-operations-were-successfully-completed-.Bilateral-tubal-repatency-rate-was-100%in-all-the-patients-during-the-operation-.The-pregnancy-rate-of-laparoscopic-surgery-group-(87.5%,21/24)-was-higher-than-that-in-the-open-surgery-group-(62.5%,15/24)-within-24-months-after-surgery,-with-significant-difference-(χ2-=4.000,-P=0.046).-Conclusions-The-success-rate-of-laparoscopic-oviduct-anastomosis-is-comparable-to-open-surgery-.However-,-the-pregnancy-rate-after-laparoscopic-oviduct-anastomosis-is-higher-than-open-surgery-.Laparoscopic-oviduct-anastomosis-has-a-broad-prospect-of-application-.

Purification of heparin binding oviduct specific proteins and its effect on in vitro embryo development in cattle.

The objective of this study was to see the effect of purified heparin binding oviduct specific proteins (OSP) as media supplement on in vitro embryo developmental competence in cattle. The oviduct specific proteins were isolated from abattoir cattle oviducts and precipitated, dialyzed and at the end purified by high performance liquid chromatography system. The SDS-PAGE profile of eluted heparin binding protein (HBP) fraction showed bands between ~66 - ~97 kDa, while heparin unbinding protein (HUBP) fraction showed two bands at ~66 kDa and in total protein (TP) bands were ~60 - ~95 kDa. Collected all three OSP fractions were used as a media supplement in three different concentrations (0, 5 and 20 µg/mL) for in vitro maturation of immature oocytes, in vitro fertilization and culture of presumptive embryos at 38.5 ºC in 5% CO2 incubator with maximum humidity. The highest cleavage rate (73.40±2.36%) was observed at 5 µg/mL concentration level and lowest cleavage rate (27.63±1.89%) was obtained in 20 μg/mL total protein (TP) fraction. The highest blastocyst formation (26.47±1.47%) also occurred in 5 µg/mL concentration of total protein (TP) fraction and the lowest blastocyst rate (3.60±1.80%) was achieved at 20 µg/mL HBP fraction. The highest cleavage rate in the control group was 60.45±2.66% in TP fraction and blastocyst formation was 11.66±2.54% in HUBP fraction which was not significantly differ from HBP fraction. These results indicate that at 5 µg/mL of total OSP fraction (TP) and HBP used as media supplement increased the cleavage rate significantly as compared to HUBP fraction, and total OSP fraction (TP) increased blastocyst formation significantly (P<0.05) as compared to HBP & HUBP fraction.

Comparison Between Laparoscopic and Open Surgery in Treating Ectopic Oviduct Pregnancy / 昆明医科大学学报

Objective To compare the surgical outcomes between laparoscopic and open surgeries in treatment of ectopic oviduct pregnancy, and investigate the clinical value of laparoscopic surgery. Methods Two hundred and forty-six patients with ectopic oviduct pregnancy in our hospital from June 2009 to March 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. 134 cases were treated with laparoscopic operation and 112 with open surgery. Some parameters such as operative time, blood loss, usage of pain-killer, hospital stay were compared between both groups. Results All operations were successful. Laparoscopic surgery was shown to be superior to open operation in the parameters of operative time, blood loss, usage of pain-killer and hospital stay ( < 0.05) . Conclusion Compared with open operation, laparoscopic surgery has the advantages of less trauma and rapid postoperative rehabilitation. It may become the first line treatment for ectopic oviduct pregnancy.

Esterilização em gatas mediante salpingectomia parcial (incluindo prenhes) versus ovariossalpingohisterectomia / Sterilization in queens by partial salpingectomy (including pregnant) versus ovariohysterectomy

A ligadura ou laqueadura das tubas uterinas é uma forma de contracepção bastante utilizada na medicina humana. Ela consiste na oclusão mecânica e/ou ressecção parcial desta estrutura (salpingectomia parcial). Nesta pesquisa, procurou-se utilizar uma técnica de contracepção definitiva em gatas prenhes, que não comprometesse a gestação em curso, o parto, nem os conceptos, tendo em vista a frequência da visualização de útero gravídico nas campanhas de castração. Avaliou-se também o ganho de peso e mudanças de comportamento das gatas submetidas à salpingectomia parcial, comparando-as com as submetidas à ovariossalpingohisterectomia (OSH), além de comparar o tempo cirúrgico entre os dois procedimentos. Para tal, foram utilizadas 40 gatas, distribuídas em dois grupos de 20 animais, GA: salpingectomia parcial, e GB: OSH; sendo o primeiro subdividido em GA1 contendo 10 gatas prenhes e GA2 contendo 10 não prenhes. Todos os animais foram reavaliados com sete, 60, 180 e 365 dias. O tempo cirúrgico apresentou diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os grupos, sendo o GB mais demorado. Nas gatas do grupo GA1, o curso gestacional e o parto foram normais. No total, foram visualizadas 51 vesículas embrionárias, nasceram 49 fetos vivos e ocorreram duas reabsorções fetais. Dentre os 49 fetos, sete (14,28%) apresentaram a anormalidade genu recurvatum. Quanto à fertilidade, os animais do grupo A que ciclaram e copularam não engravidaram. Apenas o grupo B apresentou aumento de peso médio (20,34%) estatisticamente significativo. Com relação aos parâmetros comportamentais, o grupo B apresentou maiores alterações quanto ao aumento na ingestão de alimentos, aumento da letargia e diminuição do período de vigília. Concluiu-se que a técnica de salpingectomia parcial realizada em gatas é um método contraceptivo 100% eficaz, de rápida execução, que pode ser empregado durante a identificação transcirúrgica do estado de prenhez, com mínimo efeito prejudicial aos conceptos e sem alterações significativas de conduta e ganho de peso, mas com características indesejáveis quanto à aceitação dos proprietários.

The tubal occlusion is a form of contraception used in human medicine, which consists of mechanical occlusion and / or partial resection of this structure (partial salpingectomy). In this study, we tried to use a technique for definitive contraception in pregnant queens, that would not compromise the current pregnancy, the birth of kittens, and the concepts, considering the frequency of the visualization of gravid uterus in castration campaigns. Another objective was evaluate weight gain and changes in behavior of queens submitted to partial salpingectomy, comparing them with those submitted to ovariohysterectomy (OSH), and to compare the time between both surgical procedures. Were used 40 queens, divided into two groups of 20 animals, GA: Partial salpingectomy, and GB: OSH. The group GA, was divided in GA1, containing 10 queens pregnant and GA2 containing 10 non-pregnant. All animals were assessed with seven, 60, 180 and 365 days. The surgical times showed statistically significant difference between the groups, with GB slower. The gestacional course and birth of kittens were normal in queens of group GA1. A total of 51 embryonic vesicles were visualized, 49 born live fetuses, and occurring two fetals resorptions. Among the 49 fetuses, seven (14.28%) presented genu recurvatum. With respect to fertility, the animals in group A that cycled and mated, did not get pregnant. Only the Group B showed average weight increase (20.34%) statistically significant. Regarding the behavioral parameters, the group B showed increase in food intake, increase of the lethargy, and decreased in waking period. It is concluded that the technique of partial salpingectomy performed in queens is a 100% effective contraceptive method of rapid execution, which can be employed during the transoperative identification of pregnancy, with minimal adverse effects on fetuses, no significant changes of behavior neither weight gain, but with undesirable characteristics on the acceptance of owners.

In vitro development of bovine embryos cultured under different fetal calf serum concentrations and cell types / Desenvolvimento in vitro de embriões bovinos cultivados sob diferentes concentrações de soro fetal bovino e tipos celulares

The present work was carried out to evaluate the in vitro development of bovine embryo co-cultured in granulosa, oviduct, BRL or VERO cells co-cultures, supplemented with 5% or 10% of Fetal Calf Serum (FCS). Cummulus oocyte complexes were aspirated, matured and fertilized in vitro. Embryonic structures were divided into eight treatments. They were placed in culture media TCM 199 containing granulosa, oviduct, BRL or VERO cells, each of them added with 5% or 10% FCS. The conditions for the co-culture were 38.5 ºC, 5% CO2 in air and high humidity for ten consecutive days. Cleavage, blastocyst and hatching rates did not differ (p > 0.05) in co-culture with primary cells (granulosa and oviduct) when FCS concentration increased from 5 to 10%. However, in continuous cells co-culture (BRL and VERO), when FCS concentration increased from 5% to 10%, the blastocyst development rate decreased significantly (p < 0.05) from 33.6 to 16.3% and from 40 to 16.5% in embryo co-culture with BRL and VERO cells, respectively.

O presente trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar o desenvolvimento in vitro de embriões bovinos co-cultivados em células da granulosa, do oviduto, BRL e VERO, suplementados com 5% ou 10% de Soro Fetal Bovino (SFB). Os complexos cummulus oócitos foram aspirados, maturados e fecundados in vitro. As estruturas embrionárias foram divididas em oito tratamentos: co-cultivo em TCM 199 contendo células da granulosa, do oviduto, BRL ou VERO adicionadas com 5% ou 10% de SFB. As condições de cultivo foram 38.5 ºC, 5% CO2 em ar e alta humidade por dez dias consecutivos. Os índices de clivagem, blastocisto e eclosão não diferiram (p > 0,05) no co-cultivo com células primárias (granulosa e oviduto) quando a concentração de SFB aumentou de 5 para 10%. Entretanto, no co-cultivo com células de linhagens contínuas (BRL e VERO), quando a concentração de SFB aumentou de 5% para 10%, os índices de blastocistos diminuíram significativamente (p < 0,05) de 33,6 para 16,3 % e de 40 para 16,5% nos embriões bovinos co-cultivados com células VERO e BRL, respectivamente.

Oviduct-specific expression of tissue plasminogen activator in laying hens

Egg-laying hens are important candidate bioreactors for pharmaceutical protein production because of the amenability of their eggs for protein expression. In this study, we constructed an oviduct-specific vector containing tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) protein and green fluorescent protein (pL-2.8OVtPAGFP) and assessed its expression in vitro and in vivo. Oviduct epithelial and 3T3 cells were cultured and transfected with pL-2.8OVtPAGFP and pEGP-N1 (control vector), respectively. The pL-2.8OVtPAGFP vector was administered to laying hens via a wing vein and their eggs and tissues were examined for tPA expression. The oviduct-specific vector pL-2.8OVtPAGFP was expressed only in oviduct epithelial cells whereas pEGP-N1 was detected in oviduct epithelial and 3T3 cells. Western blotting detected a 89 kDa band corresponding to tPA in egg white and oviduct epithelial cells, thus confirming expression of the protein. The amount of tPAGFP in eggs ranged 9 to 41 ng/mL on the third day after vector injection. The tPA expressed in egg white and oviduct epithelial cells showed fibrinolytic activity, indicating that the protein was expressed in active form. GFP was observed only in oviducts, with no detection in heart, muscle, liver and intestine. This is the first study to report the expression of tPA in egg white and oviduct epithelial cells using an oviduct-specific vector.

Efectos en el tracto reproductivo, digestivo y pérdida de pesocorporal del ave semipesada sometida a descanso ovárico / Efeitos no trato reprodutivo, digestivo e perda do peso de aves semi-pesadossubmetidas a descanso ovárico / The effects on the reproductive and digestive tract and loss of body weight of the Brown egg layers submitted to ovarian rest

Esta investigación evaluó la aplicación del descanso ovárico (DO) en aves semipesadas y el efecto quetienen la edad y la duración del ayuno sobre el tracto reproductivo y gastrointestinal. Se utilizaron 840ponedoras de la línea Hy-Line Brown® con 64 semanas de edad, se evaluaron tres edades de inducciónal DO (65, 70 y 75 semanas) y tres períodos de ayuno (cinco, diez y quince días), en un modelo estadísticocompletamente aleatorizado, anidado, efecto fijo y balanceado. Se sacrificaron aves para evaluar el pesocorporal, peso del tracto digestivo, peso del tracto reproductivo (ovario y oviducto), porcentaje de folículoscon diámetro igual o superior a diez mm (LYF) y el porcentaje de pérdida de peso del ave. El modelo fuesignificativo (p<0.05) para todas las variables evaluadas; la edad presentó efecto significativo (p<0.05) enel peso del ovario y el porcentaje de folículos (LYF), mientras que la duración del ayuno anidado en laedad presentó efecto significativo (p<0.05) en todas las variables, lo que indica un mayor efecto del períodode ayuno en contraste con la edad de aplicación del DO sobre las variables evaluadas. El peso del ovario(edad 65:15.87 ±15.11; edad 70: 7.92 ± 5.46; y edad 75: 7.54 ± 4.96) y porcentaje de folículos (LYF) (edad65: 43.75 ± 21.54; la edad 70 18.05 ± 8.72 y edad 75: 8.33 ± 6.85), mostraron tendencia en la disminucióna medida que aumenta la edad, comportamiento que está asociado con la disminución gradual del númerode folículos y la ampliación del tiempo entre la maduración de una onda folicular y la siguiente normaldel ave a medida que envejece (Kim y Donalson, 2000; North y Bell, 1990). Los porcentajes de pérdida de peso (edad 65: 24.24 ± 8.53%; edad 70: 20.91 ± 5.50% y edad 75: 20.88 ± 7.15%), fueron menores encomparación con los reportes en líneas livianas, posiblemente debido al contenido de reservas lipídicas,lo que ofrece al ave semipesada la capacidad de tolerar el ayuno.

The effects on the reproductive and digestive tract and loss of body weight of the Brown egg layerssubmitted to ovarian rest. This research evaluated the application of the ovarian rest (OR) on brown egglayers and the effect the age and duration of feed withdrawal have over the reproductive and gastrointestinaltract. 840 Hy-Line Brown ® layers were used at 64 weeks of age in which three ages of induction to theOR (65.70 and 75 weeks) and three feed withdrawal periods (five, ten and fifteen days) in a completelyrandomized statistical model, nested, of balanced and fixed effect. Sacrifices were carried out in order toevaluate body weight, weight of the digestive and reproductive tract (ovary and oviduct), follicle percentagewith a diameter equal to or higher than ten mm (LYF) and the percentage of the bird’s weight loss. Themodel was significant (p<0.05) for all the variables evaluated; the age presented a significant effect(p<0.05) over the ovary weight and the follicle percentage (LYF), while the duration of the feed withdrawalrelated to the age had a significant effect (p<0.05) on all the variables, which indicates a greater effect ofthe feed withdrawal period contrasted to the age of the application of the OR upon the variables evaluated.The ovary’s weight (age 65:15.87 to ± 15.11; age 70: 7.92b ± 5.46; and age 75: 7.54b ± 4.96) and thefollicle percentage (65: 43.75 to ± 21.54; age 70 18.05b ± 8.72 and age 75: 8.33b ± 6.85) showed a loweringtendency as the age increased. This type of behavior is associated with the gradual decrease in the numberof follicles and the extended time between the maturation of one follicular wave and the next as the layerages (Kim, Donalson, 2006; North, Bell, 1990). The weight loss percentages (age 65: 24.24 ± 8.53%; age70: 20.91 ± 5.50% and age 75: 20.88 ± 7.15%) were low compared to the reports on white egg layers,possibly due to the content of lipidic reserves which offers the brown egg...

Foi avaliado o descanso ovárico (DO) em galinhas semipesadas e o efeito da idade e a duração do jejumsobre o trato reprodutivo e gastrointestinal. Foram utilizadas 840 galinhas poedoras da linha Hy-LineBrown® com 64 semanas de idade, foram avaliadas três idades de indução ao DO (65, 70 e 75 semanas) etrês períodos de jejum (cinco, dez e quinze dias), utilizando um modelo desenho completamente aleatório,aninhado , efeito fixo e balanceado. As aves foram sacrificadas para avaliar o peso corporal, peso do tratodigestivo, peso do trato reprodutivo (ovário e oviduto), porcentagem de folículos com diâmetro igual ousuperior a dez mm (LYF) e a porcentagem da perdida de peso da ave. O modelo foi significativo (p<0.05)para todas as variáveis avaliadas; a idade foi significativa (p<0.05) no peso do ovário e a LYF e a duraçãodo jejum aninhado na idade apresentou efeito significativo (p<0.05) em todas as variáveis, o que indicouum maior efeito do período de jejum do que a idade sobre as variáveis avaliadas. O peso do ovário (idade65:15.87 ±15.11; idade 70: 7.92 ± 5.46; e idade 75: 7.54 ± 4.96) e percentagem de folículos (idade 65: 43.75± 21.54; idade: 70: 18.05 ± 8.72 e idade 75: 8.33 ± 6.85), mostraram tendência na diminuição à medidaque aumenta a idade. As percentagens de perda de peso (idade 65: 24.24 ± 8.53%; idade 70: 20.91 ± 5.50%e idade 75: 20.88 ± 7.15%) e as três idades apresentaram uma relação direta entre a duração dos períodosde jejum e o efeito na atrofia reprodutiva e perda de peso, permitindo determinar que não é necessáriosubmeter a jejuns superiores a dez dias.

Morphology and histological annual changes of the oviduct of chaetophractus villosus (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Dasypodidae) / Morfología y cambios histológicos anuales del oviducto de Chaetophractus villosus (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Dasypodidae)

The morphological features of the oviduct in the armadillo Chaetophractus villosus (Desmarest, 1804) were studied. In the simple columnar epithelium, ciliated cells, secretory cells, and cells of the bottom of the folds are described. The most remarkable findings are the increase in number of ciliated cells, when present, from the fimbriae to the uterus, being the isthmus practically lined by ciliated cells, and that secretory cells are more abundant in the apical zone of the ampulla and fimbriae, than in the isthmus. Morphological changes along the year in the different portions are described.

Se estudiaron las características morfológicas del oviducto del armadillo Chaetophractus villosus (Desmarest, 1804). En el epitelio, columnar simple, se describen células ciliadas, secretoras y células del fondo de los pliegues. Las células ciliadas, cuando están presentes, aumentan en número desde las fimbrias hacia el útero, estando el istmo prácticamente tapizado por células ciliadas, las células secretoras son más abundantes en la zona apical de la ampolla y en las fimbrias, que en el istmo. Se describen los cambios morfológicos en las diferentes porciones a lo largo del año.

Histologia e morfometria das glândulas das junções infundíbulo-magno e útero-vagina de codorna doméstica / Histology and morphometry of the infundibulum-magnum and uterus-vaginal junctions of spotted quails

A análise comparativa das glândulas armazenadoras de espermatozóides das junções infundíbulo-magno e útero-vagina do oviduto da codorna Nothura maculosa foi realizada durante a fase reprodutiva. As aves foram eutanasiadas por inalação com éter etílico, após a pesagem. Após a laparotomia e o deslocamento cranial do esterno, foram coletadas amostras de dois centímetros da junção infundíbulo-magno e útero-vagina. Os fragmentos foram fixados em solução de Bouin por 24 horas e, posteriormente, banhos sucessivos de álcool 70 por cento foram aplicados sobre as amostras. Em seguida, as amostras foram desidratadas em uma série de concentração crescente de alcoóis (80, 90, 95 e 3x100 por cento), diafanizadas em xilol e incluídas em parafina. Cortes histológicos de sete micrômetros de espessura foram obtidos e corados pela técnica da Hematoxilina-eosina (HE), que foram analisados e fotomicrografados em um fotomicroscópio Olympus BX-50. Para a análise morfométrica, foram capturadas imagens das glândulas armazenadoras de espermatozóides da junção infundíbulo-magno e útero-vagina mediante o programa computacional "Image Pro Plus 4.1" da Cibernetics do Brasil, tornando-se possível a quantificação das mesmas. A mucosa da junção infundíbulo-magno apresentou pregas estreitas no infundíbulo e largas no magno, enquanto na junção útero-vagina mostrou-se amplamente pregueada na vagina e mais lisa na porção uterina. O número médio de glândulas armazenadoras de espermatozóides na junção infundíbulo-magno foi maior (11,7 glândulas) (P<0,01) que na junção útero-vagina (7,5 glândulas). Supõe-se que a abundância de glândulas armazenadoras de espermatozóides na junção infundíbulo-magno permite acesso mais rápido do ovócito, após a oocitação, ao espermatozóide armazenado, garantindo a fertilização.

The comparative analysis of sperm-host glands of infundibulum-magnum and uterus-vagina junctions of Nothura maculosa quail oviduct was done during the reproductive phase. The birds were euthanized with ethyl ether after weight data were taken. After abdominal laparotomy and cranial displacement of the breastbone, two centimeters samples of infundibulum-magnum and uterus-vagina junctions were collected. The samples were fixed in Bouin's solution for twenty four hours and later, successive baths of alcohol 70 percent were applied on samples and soon afterwards dehydrated in a series of grow concentration alcohols (80, 90, 95 and 3x100 percent), diaphanized in xylol and included on paraffin. Histological sections with seven micrometers thickness were obtained and stained on Haematoxylin-Eosin (HE) technique, then they were analyzed and photomicrographed in a photomicroscope Olympus BX-50. For the morphometry analysis, infundibulum-magnum junctions and uterus-vagina sperm host gland images were captured through a computacional program Image Pro Plus 4.1", Cibernetics Brazil, making it possible to quantify them. The mucosa of the infundibulum-magnum junction presented very narrow folds in the infundibulum and too large in the magnum, while in the uterus-vagina junction was observed widely folds mucous in the vagina and smoother in the uterine portion. The average of sperm host gland in the infundibulum-magnum junction was higher (11.7 glands) (P<0.01) compared to the uterus-vagina junction (7.5 glands). It is supposed that the abundance number of sperm host glands in infundibulum-magnum junction allows faster access of the oocyte, after the ovulation of the host spermatozoid ensuring the fertilization.