ISSN:
1432-0878
Keywords:
Epididymis
;
Secretory granules
;
Secretion modus
;
Spermatozoa
;
Reptiles
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Summary During the breeding season (April, May) the epididymis of the lizard Lacerta vivipara produces voluminous secretory granules which are abundantly discharged into the lumen of the duct where they mingle with spermatozoa. The mode of secretion appears quite unusual with respect to the method by which the cells discharge their products, the granules coming out of the cells like bullets out of a gun barrel. Spermatozoa come into close relationships with discharged granules, dipping into their outer layers. This is probably the way in which the heads of spermatozoa become covered with the epididymal soluble protein (protein L). This mode of secretion in Lacerta is discussed with regard to possible artifacts and compared with that encountered in the epididymis of some other species including mammals.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00213777
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