Histochemical Studies On argas (Argas) Hermanni (Ixodoidea: Argasidae) Salivary Glands

Abstract

Basic proteins, tryptophan, tyrosine, free NH2 and SH groups, general carbohydrates, glycogen, acid mucopolysaccharides and lipids were investigated during nymphal and adult Argas (Argas) hermanni Audouin development. In the agranular type I alveoli, only the striated peripheral part reacted positively for proteins and lipids and the fine granules were glycogen-positive. These alveoli reacted negatively for NH2 and SH groups, tryptophan, tyrosine and acid mucopolysaccharides. The staining reactions of these alveoli were probably related to their structural characteristics and role in osmoregulation and fluid transport. No acid mucopolysaccharides or glycogen were detected in any of the 7 cell types and subtypes of the granular type II alveoli. The almost uniform reactions, of type a] and e] cells in all tests suggested that each of them represented a true single cell type probably containing mature globules. The varied reactions of type a2 cell globules for the same compound suggested that these globules were at different stages of development. Type b and c cell globules were probably of composite nature, containing proteins, carbohydrates and lipids. The globules in type d and e2 cells varied greatly in their reactions in all tests. Also, granules and vacuoles appearing during starvation or after feeding in cells with different reactions for the same compound suggested different excretion mechanisms and a multiple nature of these cell types. These cells might produce an anticoagulant. Also, these tryptophan-containing cells, as well as type a2 cells might produce lytic and pharmacologically active secretions.