Catecholamine-containing neurons and lymphoid cells in a lacrimal gland of the pigeon.
The Harderian gland of birds, a major lacrimal gland, contains a large population of lymphoid cells that produce IgA, a significant component of tears. Using histochemical techniques, we have examined the innervation of the gland. There was an extensive acetylcholine-esterase positive fiber network throughout the gland. However, catecholamine positive fibers were seen mainly associated with peripheral blood vessels and the lymphoid cell population which contained autofluorescent plasma cells. Ultrastructural examination showed that vesicle filled nerve varicosities were often seen near plasma cells and that some of these varicosities reacted positively for catecholamines. These anatomical data suggest that the lymphoid cell population may be affected by the autonomic nervous system.
D000110:Acetylcholinesterase / Q000378:metabolism; D000818:Animals; D002395:Catecholamines / Q000378:metabolism*; D010856:Columbidae / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D005453:Fluorescence; D006243:Harderian Gland / Q000294:innervation* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D007765:Lacrimal Apparatus / Q000294:innervation*; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D009412:Nerve Fibers / Q000648:ultrastructure; D009474:Neurons / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D010950:Plasma Cells / Q000648:ultrastructure
D002395:Catecholamines; D000110:Acetylcholinesterase