title: Fine structure of the epidermal Leydig cells in the axolotl Ambystoma mexicanum in relation to their function.
abstract: The fine structure of the Leydig cells in the epidermis of the strictly aquatic adult axolotl Ambystoma mexicanum resembles that of similar cells in larval salamanders. The major finding of this study is that the mucous secretion of the Leydig cells is released into the intercellular spaces from which it is discharged through pores onto the surface of the epidermis where it forms a mucous layer to protect the skin.
authors.affiliation: Muncie Center for Medical Education, Indiana University School of Medicine, Ball State University 47306.
authors.forename: M S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Jarial
mesh_terms: D008841:Actin Cytoskeleton / Q000648:ultrastructure; D000557:Ambystoma / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D000558:Ambystoma mexicanum / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D000818:Animals; D003594:Cytoplasmic Granules / Q000648:ultrastructure; D003896:Desmosomes / Q000648:ultrastructure; D004817:Epidermis / Q000648:ultrastructure; D008297:Male; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D008871:Microvilli / Q000648:ultrastructure; D012867:Skin / Q000648:ultrastructure*