title: Histochemical and ultrastructural features of the lingual epithelium of the rat snake (Elaphe climacophora).
abstract: The histological, ultrastructural and histochemical characteristics of the lingual epithelium of the rat snake (Elaphe climacophora) were investigated by light and transmission electron microscopy. The cells in the beta-layer of the epithelium of the bifurcated apex were filled with beta-keratin fibers and an amorphous matrix. Round projections covering the surface of the epithelial cells, namely, microfacets which contained pale granules, were clearly visible on the outer faces of Oberhäutchen cells on the epithelium, and they were identified as fine granules filled with lipid. These granules might play an important role as a coating on the surface of the bifurcated lingual apex. The lipid on the surface of the lingual apex might also serve to trap and retain odorant molecules. Keratohyalin-like granules were distributed within the a-layer of the epithelium of the bifurcated apex of the tongue in the resting phase and cellular interdigitation was well developed in this region. Evidence of a shedding line was apparent under the light microscope in the cleft between outer and inner epithelial generations. The epithelial surface of the body of the tongue appeared suitable for retention of odorant and other molecules.
authors.affiliation: Advanced Research Center, The Nippon Dental University, School of Dentistry, Niigata, Japan. iwasaki@ngt.ndu.ac.jp
authors.forename: Shin-ichi
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Iwasaki
authors.forename: Masayoshi
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Yoshihara