[Scanning electron and light microscopic studies of the surface epithelium of the rete testis and epididymis in the boar. II. Ductus epididymis]. / Rasterelektronen- und lichtmikroskopische Untersuchungen des Oberflächenepithels von Rete testis und Nebenhoden beim Eber. II. Ductus epididymidis.

The entire ductus epididymidis is characterized by pseudostratified columnar epithelium which contain principal and basal cells. Apical cells are found in the proximal segments. Long stereocilia projected from the apical surface of the principal cells. Signs of adjacent apocrine secretory activity are shown. The various segments of the ductus epididymidis present differences in the height of the epithelium, the development of the stereocilia, the appearance of granules in the cytoplasm, the luminal sperm concentration and the height of the peritubular layer.

[Scanning electron and light microscopic studies of the surface epithelium of the rete testis and epididymis of the boar. I. Rete testis and efferent ducts]. / Rasterelektronen- und lichtmikroskopische Untersuchungen des Oberflächenepithels von Rete testis und Nebenhoden beim Eber. I. Rete testis und Ductuli efferentes.

The use of the scanning electron microscope gave a three dimensional representation of the epithelial surface. Additionally, light microscopy revealed the representative structure of the epithelium. The rete testis showed a single layer of cubic epithelial cells. Short and dense microvilli were found on the surface. Sporadically a single, cilia-like structure was recognized. An extratesticular rete testis was identified. The flowing transition of the epithelium between the rete testis and the efferent ductuli occurred at different levels, so that both kinds of epithelial structures were recognized in the same area. The efferent ductuli were composed of a single columnar epithelium consisting of two cell types, principal cells and ciliated cells. The ciliated cells were recognized by their cilia protruding into the lumen. The principal cells showed microvilli on their surface and bleblike apical protrusions which erupt into the lumen.