Lymphoid distribution in the migratory gull Larus ridibundus.
We studied the distribution of lymphocytes in the main lymphoid tissues (blood, spleen and thymus) of the gull Larus ridibundus, searching for variations that might depend on the migratory cycle. We also looked for sex- and age-associated differences in lymphoid redistribution. In L. ridibundus, lymphocytes are the most commonly observed leukocyte subpopulation in blood. Moreover, changes in the distribution of lymphocytes in the lymphoid tissue occur, depending on the migratory period. The proportion of these cells in spleen is greater in the post-migratory and pre-migratory periods compared to the non-migratory period. The percentages of circulating lymphocytes are high in the pre-migratory period, but depletion occurs in the post-migratory period. In contrast, the age or the sex of the animals did not confer any major differences on the lymphoid distribution.
Muñoz
Francisco J
FJ
Cell Signalling Unit, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Calle Dr. Aiguader, 80 Barcelona 08003, Spain. paco.munoz@upf.edu
De la Fuente
Mónica
M
D000375:Aging; D025041:Animal Migration; D000818:Animals; D001717:Birds / Q000097:blood / Q000276:immunology*; D005260:Female; D006400:Hematocrit; D007958:Leukocyte Count; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D008221:Lymphoid Tissue / Q000166:cytology* / Q000276:immunology*; D008297:Male; D012621:Seasons; D012727:Sex Characteristics