The hemocytes of the centipedeLithobius forficatus (Chilopoda, Lithobiomorpha): Light and electron microscopic studies using in vitro techniques

The fine structure of the midgut epithelium in a centipede, Scolopendra cingulata (Chilopoda, Scolopendridae), with the special emphasis on epithelial regeneration

Scolopendra cingulata has a tube-shaped digestive system that is divided into three distinct regions: fore-, mid- and hindgut. The midgut is lined with a pseudostratified columnar epithelium which is composed of digestive, secretory and regenerative cells. Hemocytes also appear between the digestive cells of the midgut epithelium. The ultrastructure of three types of epithelial cells and hemocytes of the midgut has been described with the special emphasis on the role of regenerative cells in the protection of midgut epithelium. The process of midgut epithelium regeneration proceeds due to the ability of regenerative cells to proliferate and differentiate according to a circadian rhythm. The regenerative cells serve as unipotent stem cells that divide in an asymmetric manner. Additionally, two types of hemocytes have been distinguished among midgut epithelial cells. They enter the midgut epithelium from the body cavity. Because of the fact that numerous microorganisms occur in the cytoplasm of midgut epithelial cells, we discuss the role of hemocytes in elimination of pathogens from the midgut epithelium. The studies were conducted with the use of transmission electron microscope and immunofluorescent methods.

Hemocytes of the centipede Scutigera coleoptrata (Chilopoda, Notostigmophora) with notes on their interactions with the tracheae

The hemocytes of Scutigera coleoptrata were investigated by light and electron microscopy. Four types of hemocytes were identified: prohemocytes, plasmatocytes, granulocytes, and spherulocytes. Only granulocytes could be distinguished from the three other types by May-Grünwald staining, as this is the only hemocyte type demonstrating an eosinophilic reaction. Shape and size give further indications for distinguishing the cell types. In addition, differentiation is possible on the basis of their ultrastructure. However, only a combination of all three methods (staining and light and electron microscopy) allows clear separation of the cell types. As transitional stages between the cell types occur in S. coleoptrata, it is likely that prohemocytes, plasmatocytes, and granulocytes are ontogenetic stages of a single cell lineage. Special cell components and their possible functions are described. Plasmatocytes exocytose tubular structures that probably play a role in coagulation processes. These tubular structures develop in the grana of plasmatocytes. Also, a special arrangement of microtubules and microfilaments was demonstrated. For the first time interactions between hemocytes and tracheae are documented within the Chilopoda. It is assumed that the hemocytes meet their oxygen requirements directly from the tracheae. Phylogenetic implications of the results are discussed.