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Ortiz-Leal I, Torres MV, López-Beceiro A, Fidalgo L, Shin T, Sanchez-Quinteiro P. First Immunohistochemical Demonstration of the Expression of a Type-2 Vomeronasal Receptor, V2R2, in Wild Canids. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7291. [PMID: 39000398 PMCID: PMC11241633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The mammalian vomeronasal system enables the perception of chemical signals crucial for social communication via the receptor families V1R and V2R. These receptors are linked with the G-protein subunits, Gαi2 and Gαo, respectively. Exploring the evolutionary pathways of V1Rs and V2Rs across mammalian species remains a significant challenge, particularly when comparing genomic data with emerging immunohistochemical evidence. Recent studies have revealed the expression of Gαo in the vomeronasal neuroepithelium of wild canids, including wolves and foxes, contradicting predictions based on current genomic annotations. Our study provides detailed immunohistochemical evidence, mapping the expression of V2R receptors in the vomeronasal sensory epithelium, focusing particularly on wild canids, specifically wolves and foxes. An additional objective involves contrasting these findings with those from domestic species like dogs to highlight the evolutionary impacts of domestication on sensory systems. The employment of a specific antibody raised against the mouse V2R2, a member of the C-family of vomeronasal receptors, V2Rs, has confirmed the presence of V2R2-immunoreactivity (V2R2-ir) in the fox and wolf, but it has revealed the lack of expression in the dog. This may reflect the impact of domestication on the regression of the VNS in this species, in contrast to their wild counterparts, and it underscores the effects of artificial selection on sensory functions. Thus, these findings suggest a more refined chemical detection capability in wild species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Ortiz-Leal
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Santiago de Compostela, Av. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain
| | - Mateo V Torres
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Santiago de Compostela, Av. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain
| | - Ana López-Beceiro
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Santiago de Compostela, Av. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain
| | - Luis Fidalgo
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Santiago de Compostela, Av. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain
| | - Taekyun Shin
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Pablo Sanchez-Quinteiro
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Santiago de Compostela, Av. Carballo Calero s/n, 27002 Lugo, Spain
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Ortiz‐Leal I, Torres MV, Barreiro‐Vázquez J, López‐Beceiro A, Fidalgo L, Shin T, Sanchez‐Quinteiro P. The vomeronasal system of the wolf (Canis lupus signatus): The singularities of a wild canid. J Anat 2024; 245:109-136. [PMID: 38366249 PMCID: PMC11161832 DOI: 10.1111/joa.14024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Wolves, akin to their fellow canids, extensively employ chemical signals for various aspects of communication, including territory maintenance, reproductive synchronisation and social hierarchy signalling. Pheromone-mediated chemical communication operates unconsciously among individuals, serving as an innate sensory modality that regulates both their physiology and behaviour. Despite its crucial role in the life of the wolf, there is a lacuna in comprehensive research on the neuroanatomical and physiological underpinnings of chemical communication within this species. This study investigates the vomeronasal system (VNS) of the Iberian wolf, simultaneously probing potential alterations brought about by dog domestication. Our findings demonstrate the presence of a fully functional VNS, vital for pheromone-mediated communication, in the Iberian wolf. While macroscopic similarities between the VNS of the wolf and the domestic dog are discernible, notable microscopic differences emerge. These distinctions include the presence of neuronal clusters associated with the sensory epithelium of the vomeronasal organ (VNO) and a heightened degree of differentiation of the accessory olfactory bulb (AOB). Immunohistochemical analyses reveal the expression of the two primary families of vomeronasal receptors (V1R and V2R) within the VNO. However, only the V1R family is expressed in the AOB. These findings not only yield profound insights into the VNS of the wolf but also hint at how domestication might have altered neural configurations that underpin species-specific behaviours. This understanding holds implications for the development of innovative strategies, such as the application of semiochemicals for wolf population management, aligning with contemporary conservation goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Ortiz‐Leal
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
| | - Mateo V. Torres
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
| | - José‐Daniel Barreiro‐Vázquez
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
| | - Ana López‐Beceiro
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
| | - Luis Fidalgo
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
| | - Taekyun Shin
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Jeju National UniversityJejuRepublic of Korea
| | - Pablo Sanchez‐Quinteiro
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
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Kondoh D, Tonomori W, Iwasaki R, Tomiyasu J, Kaneoya Y, Kawai YK, Ikuta S, Kobayashi H, Kobayashi M. The vomeronasal organ and incisive duct of harbor seals are modified to secrete acidic mucus into the nasal cavity. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11779. [PMID: 38783070 PMCID: PMC11116377 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62711-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Most terrestrial mammals have a vomeronasal system to detect specific chemicals. The peripheral organ of this system is a vomeronasal organ (VNO) opening to the incisive duct, and its primary integrative center is an accessory olfactory bulb (AOB). The VNO in seals is thought to be degenerated like whales and manatees, unlike otariids, because of the absence of the AOB. However, olfaction plays pivotal roles in seals, and thus we conducted a detailed morphological evaluation of the vomeronasal system of three harbor seals (Phoca vitulina). The VNO lumen was not found, and the incisive duct did not open into the oral cavity but was recognized as a fossa on the anteroventral side of the nasal cavity. This fossa is rich in mucous glands that secrete acidic mucopolysaccharides, which might originate from the vomeronasal glands. The olfactory bulb consisted only of a main olfactory bulb that received projections from the olfactory mucosa, but an AOB region was not evident. These findings clarified that harbor seals do not have a VNO to detect some chemicals, but the corresponding region is a specialized secretory organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Kondoh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan.
| | - Wataru Tonomori
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
- Department of Geology and Paleontology, National Museum of Nature and Science, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Ashoro Museum of Paleontology, Ashoro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Ryota Iwasaki
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Jumpei Tomiyasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Yuka Kaneoya
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Yusuke K Kawai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Shun Ikuta
- Incorporated Non-Profit Organization, Marine Wildlife Center of Japan, Abashiri, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Hayao Kobayashi
- Faculty of Bioindustry, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Abashiri, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Mari Kobayashi
- Incorporated Non-Profit Organization, Marine Wildlife Center of Japan, Abashiri, Hokkaido, Japan
- Faculty of Bioindustry, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Abashiri, Hokkaido, Japan
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Kotula-Balak M, Lonc G, Zarzycka M, Tomiyasu J, Knapczyk-Stwora K, Płachno BJ, Korzekwa AJ, Kaczmarczyk J, Krakowska I. The uterusmasculinus of the Eurasian beaver (Castor fever L.) - The appraisal of fast hormone regulation by membrane androgen and estrogen receptors involvement. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 345:114389. [PMID: 37797800 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
The phenomenon of remaining paramesonephric ducts (uterus masculinus) in males of some animal species concerning its role is still an unresolved issue. Now it is well-recognized that sex hormonal regulation of reproductive physiology involves also fast nongenomic control of cellular processes through noncanonical signaling. Herein, in the uterus masculinus of Eurasian beaver membrane androgen receptor (metal ion transporter Zrt- and Irt-like protein 9; ZIP9) and membrane estrogen receptor (G protein-coupled estrogen receptor; GPER) were studied. Scanning electron microscopy together with anatomical analysis revealed that Eurasian male beavers possess one double uterus (uterus duplex). Two odd parts open into the vagina but do not form a common lumen. The length of the horns is the most differential feature of this organ in studied animals. Uterus masculinus is not a tightly closed tubular structure. Histological analysis showed an analogy to the female uterus structure however no glands but gland-like structures were observed. The presence and abundant localization of ZIP9 and GPER proteins in cells of uterus masculinus was confirmed by immunohistochemistry while their expression was measured by western blotting. GPER expression in remnants was lower (P < 0.001) than those in the female uterus. Parallelly, the concentration of progesterone and estradiol but not testosterone was lower (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) in comparison to the female uterus. Our study, for the first time, reports the involvement of fast hormonal regulation in the uterus masculinus of Eurasian beavers reflecting the participation of this organ in the creation local hormonal environment. Moreover, the uterus masculinus seems to be a useful research model for understanding and resolving urgent biological problems such as gender identities and having children by women with a lack of uterus or anatomical barriers on this level.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kotula-Balak
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Preclinical Sciences, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland.
| | - G Lonc
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Preclinical Sciences, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland
| | - M Zarzycka
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - J Tomiyasu
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - K Knapczyk-Stwora
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - B J Płachno
- Department of Plant Cytology and Embryology, Institute of Botany, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - A J Korzekwa
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - J Kaczmarczyk
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - I Krakowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Preclinical Sciences, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland
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Xie W, Chen M, Shen Y, Liu Y, Zhang H, Weng Q. Vomeronasal Receptors Associated with Circulating Estrogen Processing Chemosensory Cues in Semi-Aquatic Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10724. [PMID: 37445898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In numerous animals, one essential chemosensory organ that detects chemical signals is the vomeronasal organ (VNO), which is involved in species-specific behaviors, including social and sexual behaviors. The purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanism underlying the processing of chemosensory cues in semi-aquatic mammals using muskrats as the animal model. Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) has a sensitive VNO system that activates seasonal breeding behaviors through receiving specific substances, including pheromones and hormones. Vomeronasal organ receptor type 1 (V1R) and type 2 (V2R) and estrogen receptor α and β (ERα and ERβ) were found in sensory epithelial cells, non-sensory epithelial cells and lamina propria cells of the female muskrats' VNO. V2R and ERα mRNA levels in the VNO during the breeding period declined sharply, in comparison to those during the non-breeding period, while V1R and ERβ mRNA levels were detected reversely. Additionally, transcriptomic study in the VNO identified that differently expressed genes might be related to estrogen signal and metabolic pathways. These findings suggested that the seasonal structural and functional changes in the VNO of female muskrats with different reproductive status and estrogen was regulated through binding to ERα and ERβ in the female muskrats' VNO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Xie
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Meiqi Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuyao Shen
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuning Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Haolin Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Qiang Weng
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
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Improving Animal Wellbeing Using Behavior-Based Methodologies: A Discussion on Enrichment and Bears under Human Care. JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg4010022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
This communication discusses the Bear Care Group’s “behavior-based” enrichment philosophy, focusing on the importance of enrichment programs built on the knowledge of species’ natural histories, living strategies, and observed daily and seasonal routines. Methods for program development are discussed, detailing the benefits to animal wellbeing, including the reduction of chronic stress and frustration that lead to abnormal or stereotypical behaviors. The concepts are illustrated through a discussion of bear natural history and living strategies, but these methods are applicable to a wide range of taxa. The Bear Care Group encourages facilities to consider behavior-based enrichment programs to promote positive welfare for their animals.
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Brown bear skin-borne secretions display evidence of individuality and age-sex variation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3163. [PMID: 36823208 PMCID: PMC9950453 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29479-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Scent originates from excretions and secretions, and its chemical complexity in mammals translates into a diverse mode of signalling. Identifying how information is encoded can help to establish the mechanisms of olfactory communication and the use of odours as chemical signals. Building upon existing behavioural and histological literature, we examined the chemical profile of secretions used for scent marking by a solitary, non-territorial carnivore, the brown bear (Ursus arctos). We investigated the incidence, abundance, and uniqueness of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cutaneous glandular secretions of 12 wild brown bears collected during late and post-breeding season, and assessed whether age-sex class, body site, and individual identity explained profile variation. VOC profiles varied in the average number of compounds, compound incidence, and compound abundance by age-sex class and individual identity (when individuals were grouped by sex), but not by body site. Mature males differed from other age-sex classes, secreting fewer compounds on average with the least variance between individuals. Compound uniqueness varied by body site and age for both males and females and across individuals. Our results indicate that brown bear skin-borne secretions may facilitate age-sex class and individual recognition, which can contribute towards further understanding of mating systems and social behaviour.
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Mechin V, Asproni P, Bienboire-Frosini C, Cozzi A, Chabaud C, Arroub S, Mainau E, Nagnan-Le Meillour P, Pageat P. Inflammation interferes with chemoreception in pigs by altering the neuronal layout of the vomeronasal sensory epithelium. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:936838. [PMID: 36172609 PMCID: PMC9510685 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.936838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemical communication is widely used by animals to exchange information in their environment, through the emission and detection of semiochemicals to maintain social organization and hierarchical rules in groups. The vomeronasal organ (VNO) is one of the main detectors of these messages, and its inflammation has been linked to behavioral changes because it potentially prevents molecule detection and, consequently, the translation of the signal into action. Our previous study highlighted the link between the intensity of vomeronasal sensory epithelium (VNSE) inflammation, probably induced by farm contaminant exposure, and intraspecific aggression in pigs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cellular and molecular changes that occur during vomeronasalitis in 76 vomeronasal sensorial epithelia from 38 intensive-farmed pigs. Histology was used to evaluate the condition of each VNO and classify inflammation as healthy, weak, moderate, or strong. These data were compared to the thickness of the sensorial epithelium and the number of type 1 vomeronasal receptor cells using anti-Gαi2 protein immunohistochemistry (IHC) and analysis. The presence of odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) in the areas surrounding the VNO was also analyzed by IHC and compared to inflammation intensity since its role as a molecule transporter to sensory neurons has been well-established. Of the 76 samples, 13 (17%) were healthy, 31 (41%) presented with weak inflammation, and 32 (42%) presented with moderate inflammation. No severe inflammation was observed. Epithelial thickness and the number of Gαi2+ cells were inversely correlated with inflammation intensity (Kruskal–Wallis and ANOVA tests, p < 0.0001), while OBP expression in areas around the VNO was increased in inflamed VNO (Kruskal–Wallis test, p = 0.0094), regardless of intensity. This study showed that inflammation was associated with a reduction in the thickness of the sensory epithelium and Gαi2+ cell number, suggesting that this condition can induce different degrees of neuronal loss. This finding could explain how vomeronasalitis may prevent the correct functioning of chemical communication, leading to social conflict with a potential negative impact on welfare, which is one of the most important challenges in pig farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violaine Mechin
- Tissue Biology and Chemical Communication Department, IRSEA, Institute of Research in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology, Apt, France
- *Correspondence: Violaine Mechin
| | - Pietro Asproni
- Tissue Biology and Chemical Communication Department, IRSEA, Institute of Research in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology, Apt, France
| | - Cécile Bienboire-Frosini
- Molecular Biology and Chemical Communication Department, IRSEA, Institute of Research in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology, Apt, France
| | - Alessandro Cozzi
- Research and Education Board, IRSEA, Institute of Research in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology, Apt, France
| | - Camille Chabaud
- Molecular Biology and Chemical Communication Department, IRSEA, Institute of Research in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology, Apt, France
| | - Sana Arroub
- Statistics and Data Management Service, IRSEA, Institute of Research in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology, Apt, France
| | - Eva Mainau
- Department of Animal and Food Science, School of Veterinary Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Patrick Pageat
- Research and Education Board, IRSEA, Institute of Research in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology, Apt, France
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Tomiyasu J, Korzekwa A, Kawai YK, Robstad CA, Rosell F, Kondoh D. The vomeronasal system in semiaquatic beavers. J Anat 2022; 241:809-819. [PMID: 35437747 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In contrast to the main olfactory system that detects volatile chemicals in the nasal air, the vomeronasal system can detect nonvolatile chemicals as well as volatiles. In the vomeronasal system, chemicals are perceived by the vomeronasal organ (VNO) projecting axons to the accessory olfactory bulb (AOB). Beavers (Castor spp.) are semiaquatic mammals that have developed chemical communication. It is possible that the beaver's anal gland secretions, nonvolatile and insoluble substances, may work as a messenger in the water and that beavers may detect the nonvolatile chemicals floating on the water surface via the VNO. The present study aimed to clarify the specificities of the beaver vomeronasal system by histologically and immunohistochemically analyzing the VNO and AOB of 12 Eurasian beavers (C. fiber). The VNO directly opened to the nasal cavity and was independent of a narrow nasopalatine duct connecting the oral and nasal cavities. The VNO comprised soft tissues including sensory and nonsensory epithelium, glands, a venous sinus, an artery, as well as cartilage inner, and bone outer enclosures. The AOB had distinct six layers, and anti-G protein α-i2 and α-o subunits were, respectively, immunoreactive in rostral and caudal glomeruli layers indicating expressions of V1Rs and V2Rs. According to gene repertories analysis, the beavers had 23 and six intact V1R and V2R genes respectively. These findings suggested that beavers recognize volatile odorants and nonvolatile substances using the vomeronasal system. The beaver VNO was developed as well as in other rodents, and it had two specific morphological features, namely, disadvantaged contact with the oral cavity because of a tiny nasopalatine duct, and a double bone and cartilage envelope. Our results highlight the importance of the vomeronasal system in beaver chemical communication and support the possibility that beavers can detect chemicals floating on the water surface via the VNO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jumpei Tomiyasu
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Anna Korzekwa
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Yusuke K Kawai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Christian A Robstad
- Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Telemark, Norway
| | - Frank Rosell
- Department of Natural Sciences and Environmental Health, Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Telemark, Norway
| | - Daisuke Kondoh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
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Morphological and Histological Features of the Vomeronasal Organ in African Pygmy Hedgehog ( Atelerix albiventris). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11051462. [PMID: 34069678 PMCID: PMC8160653 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hedgehogs have a sensitive olfaction, but little is known about their vomeronasal organ, which detects specific chemicals such as pheromones. This is the first study to reveal the morphological and histological features of the vomeronasal organ in the African pygmy hedgehog. Notably, unlike other mammals, the hedgehog has a large, well-developed serous gland in the vomeronasal organ. This gland seems to allow flushing out odorous substances from the vomeronasal organ and might be favorable for subsequent stimulus reception. Abstract The vomeronasal organ (VNO) detects specific chemicals such as pheromones and kairomones. Hedgehogs (Eulipotyphla: Erinaceidae) have a well-developed accessory olfactory bulb that receives projections from the VNO, but little is known about the hedgehog VNO. Here, we studied the histological features of the VNO in five individual African pygmy hedgehogs by hematoxylin-eosin, periodic acid-Schiff, and Alcian blue stains. The hedgehog VNO comprises a hyaline cartilage capsule, soft tissue and epithelial lumen, and it branches from the site just before the incisive duct opening into the nasal cavity. The soft tissues contain several small mucous (or mucoserous) glands and a large serous gland, and many venous sinuses all around the lumen. The VNO lumen is round to oval throughout the hedgehog VNO, and the sensory epithelium lines almost the entire rostral part and medial wall of the middle part. These findings indicate that the VNO is functional and plays an important role in the hedgehog. Notably, the VNO apparently has a characteristic flushing mechanism with serous secretions like those of gustatory glands, which the hedgehog might frequently use to recognize the external environment.
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Abo-Ahmed AI, Eshrah EA, Latifi F. Unique nasal septal island in dromedary camels may play a role in pain perception: microscopic studies. Saudi J Biol Sci 2021; 28:3806-3815. [PMID: 34220235 PMCID: PMC8241622 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.03.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The septal island in dromedaries is a distinctive anatomical structure. It has a curiously rostral location and innervated by the trigeminal nerve. It has an unusual ultrastructure and may be specialized for nociception.
The septal organs are islands or patches of sensory epithelium, located in the ventral parts of the nasal septum and innervated by the olfactory nerve. The septal island in dromedaries (Camelus dromedarius) was unusually located in the rostro-dorsal part of the nasal septum, where the ethmoidal branch of the trigeminal nerve provides innervation to the island mucosa. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to reveal the microscopic and ultrastructure of this island and to explain the probable functions. Twelve septal islands from 12 healthy male camels were used. Unlike the olfactory epithelium, which has a pseudostratified structure, the island neuroepithelium had a true neural lamination. Furthermore, in electron micrographs, the receptor, bipolar, and basal cells were connected with an orderly, organized network of cell–cell communication, which had some spine synapses. This network substituted the absence of supporting cells, maintained the shape of the tissue, and held the cells together. Moreover, the receptor cells were not similar to any of the different types of olfactory sensory neurons. Instead, they possessed the apical domain that might be specialized for the detection of chemical stimuli. Interestingly, a resident population of immune cells, namely mast cells and macrophages, was observed. The probable functions were discussed based on the cellular context and architecture. The nasal septal island in dromedaries may have a role in pain perception. The receptor cells most probably work as nociceptive cells that interact with the resident immune cells to coordinate pain signaling with immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed I Abo-Ahmed
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Toukh 13736, Egypt
| | - Eman A Eshrah
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Toukh 13736, Egypt
| | - Fatgzim Latifi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary, University of Prishtina "Hasan Prishtina", Prishtina, Kosovo
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Ortiz‐Leal I, Torres MV, Villamayor PR, López‐Beceiro A, Sanchez‐Quinteiro P. The vomeronasal organ of wild canids: the fox (Vulpes vulpes) as a model. J Anat 2020; 237:890-906. [PMID: 32584430 PMCID: PMC7542198 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The vomeronasal system (VNS) has been extensively studied within specific animal families, such as Rodentia. However, the study of the VNS in other families, such as Canidae, has long been neglected. Among canids, the vomeronasal organ (VNO) has only been studied in detail in the dog, and no studies have examined the morphofunctional or immunohistochemical characteristics of the VNS in wild canids, which is surprising, given the well-known importance of chemical senses for the dog and fox and the likelihood that the VNS plays roles in the socio-reproductive physiology and behaviours of these species. In addition, characterising the fox VNS could contribute to a better understanding of the domestication process that occurred in the dog, as the fox would represent the first wild canid to be studied in depth. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics of the fox VNO. Tissue dissection and microdissection techniques were employed, followed by general and specific histological staining techniques, including with immunohistochemical and lectin-histochemical labelling strategies, using antibodies against olfactory marker protein (OMP), growth-associated protein 43 (GAP-43), calbindin (CB), calretinin (CR), α-tubulin, Gαo, and Gαi2 proteins, to highlight the specific features of the VNO in the fox. This study found significant differences in the VNS between the fox and the dog, particularly concerning the expression of Gαi2 and Gαo proteins, which were associated with the expression of the type 1 vomeronasal receptors (V1R) and type 2 vomeronasal receptors (V2R), respectively, in the vomeronasal epithelium. Both are immunopositive in foxes, as opposed to the dog, which only expresses Gαi2. This finding suggests that the fox possesses a well-developed VNO and supports the hypothesis that a profound transformation in the VNS is associated with domestication in the canid family. Furthermore, the unique features identified in the fox VNO confirm the necessity of studying the VNS system in different species to better comprehend specific phylogenetic aspects of the VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Ortiz‐Leal
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary SciencesFaculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
| | - Mateo V. Torres
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary SciencesFaculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
| | - Paula R. Villamayor
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary SciencesFaculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
| | - Ana López‐Beceiro
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary SciencesFaculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
| | - Pablo Sanchez‐Quinteiro
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary SciencesFaculty of VeterinaryUniversity of Santiago de CompostelaLugoSpain
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Silva L, Mendes T, Antunes A. Acquisition of social behavior in mammalian lineages is related with duplication events of FPR genes. Genomics 2020; 112:2778-2783. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2020.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Comparative histological studies on properties of polysaccharides secreted by vomeronasal glands of eight Laurasiatheria species. Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151515. [PMID: 32081447 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2020.151515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Most mammalian species have a vomeronasal organ that detects specific chemical substances, such as pheromones. Mucous fluid covering the vomeronasal sensory epithelium is secreted by vomeronasal glands, and the properties of these fluids have been suggested to be involved in chemical detection. Histological studies using periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and Alcian blue pH 2.5 (AB) stains, which respectively detect natural and acidic polysaccharides, have suggested variations in the nature of the vomeronasal glands among species. Here, we investigated the responsivity of the vomeronasal glands to PAS and AB stains in eight Laurasiatheria species. All species studied herein possessed vomeronasal glands that stained positive for PAS, like other many reported species. The vomeronasal glands of dogs and minks - like rodents, were AB-negative, whereas those of cows, goats, sika deer, musk shrews and two bat species were positive. Considering the present findings and previous reports, the vomeronasal glands in most of Laurasiatheria species appear to be fundamentally abundant in acidic polysaccharides, whereas those in carnivores essentially contains neutral polysaccharides.
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Mahdy EAA, El Behery EI, Mohamed SKA. Comparative morpho-histological analysis on the vomeronasal organ and the accessory olfactory bulb in Balady dogs ( Canis familiaris) and New Zealand rabbits ( Oryctolagus cuniculus). J Adv Vet Anim Res 2019; 6:506-515. [PMID: 31819879 PMCID: PMC6882720 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2019.f375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study investigated the comparative morphological analysis of the vomeronasal organ and the accessory olfactory bulb in dogs and rabbits. Materials and Methods: A total of 15 heads obtained from each adult healthy Balady dog (Canis familiaris) and New Zealand rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) of both sexes. The animals were sedated and anesthetized. Then, the heads were removed for computing topography, gross, and cross-sectional anatomy and histological techniques. Results: The vomeronasal organ was blind bilateral tubes enclosed by J-shaped cartilage on each side of the nasal septum. In dogs, it extended from the level of the upper third premolar teeth to the third incisive teeth. While in rabbits, it had no relation with the upper teeth. In cross section, the vomeronasal organ was pear-shaped in dogs and oval in rabbits. The accessory olfactory bulb was a small oval-shaped in dogs, but larger and ovoid in rabbits with clear lamination in its structure. The vomeronasal epithelium in rabbits was higher in its thickness than that of the dog. The vomeronasal duct had medial sensory and lateral respiratory epithelium. The vomeronasal glands were voluminous and of serous type in rabbits other than were seromucous in dogs. Conclusion: The most characteristic structural variations achieved in the vomeronasal organ and the accessory olfactory bulb of the dog and rabbit gave an indication that the organ was more functional in rabbits than in dogs. The detection and response to the pheromonal stimuli were referred to as the occurrence of olfactory epithelium in the vomeronasal organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman A A Mahdy
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt
| | - Eman Ismail El Behery
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt
| | - Sherif Kh A Mohamed
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt
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Zoological terms in the human histological nomenclature Terminologia Histologica. What we think, what we know, and what we think we know. Biologia (Bratisl) 2019. [DOI: 10.2478/s11756-019-00356-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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17
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Sienkiewicz T, Sergiel A, Huber D, Maślak R, Wrzosek M, Podgórski P, Reljić S, Paśko Ł. The Brain Anatomy of the Brown Bear (Carnivora, Ursus arctos L., 1758) Compared to That of Other Carnivorans: A Cross-Sectional Study Using MRI. Front Neuroanat 2019; 13:79. [PMID: 31555102 PMCID: PMC6727829 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2019.00079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to provide a neuroanatomy atlas derived from cross-sectional and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the encephalon of the brown bear (Ursus arctos). A postmortem brain analysis using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI - 1,5T; a high-resolution submillimeter three-dimensional T1-3D FFE) and cross-sectional macroscopic anatomy methods revealed major embryological and anatomical subdivisions of the encephalon, including the ventricular system. Most of the internal structures were comparably identifiable in both methods. The tractus olfactorius medialis, corpus subthalamicum, brachium colliculi rostralis, fasciculus longitudinalis medialis, nuclei vestibulares, velum medullare rostrale, nucleus fastigii, fasciculi cuneatus et gracilis were identified entirely by cross-sectional macroscopic analysis. However, the glandula pinealis, lemniscus lateralis and nuclei rhaphe were visualized only with MRI. Gross neuroanatomic analysis provided information about sulci and gyri of the cerebral hemispheres, components of the vermis and cerebellar hemispheres, and relative size and morphology of constituents of the rhinencephalon and cerebellum constituents. Similarities and discrepancies in identification of structures provided by both methods, as well as hallmarks of the structures facilitating identification using these methods are discussed. Finally, we compare the brown bear encephalon with other carnivores and discuss most of the identified structures compared to those of the domestic dog, the domestic cat, Ursidae and Mustelidae families and Pinnipedia clade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Sienkiewicz
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Conservation of Vertebrates, Institute of Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Sergiel
- Department of Wildlife Conservation, Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Djuro Huber
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Robert Maślak
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Conservation of Vertebrates, Institute of Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Marcin Wrzosek
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinic of Diseases for Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Przemysław Podgórski
- Department of General Radiology, Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, Faculty of Postgraduate Medical Training, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Slaven Reljić
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Łukasz Paśko
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Conservation of Vertebrates, Institute of Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
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Kleiner JD, Van Horn RC, Swenson JE, Steyaert SM. Rub-tree selection by Andean bears in the Peruvian dry forest. URSUS 2018. [DOI: 10.2192/ursus-d-17-00012.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jack D. Kleiner
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Russell C. Van Horn
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, P.O. Box 120551, San Diego, CA 92112-0551, USA
| | - Jon E. Swenson
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Sam M.J.G. Steyaert
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway
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Villamayor PR, Cifuentes JM, Fdz-de-Troconiz P, Sanchez-Quinteiro P. Morphological and immunohistochemical study of the rabbit vomeronasal organ. J Anat 2018; 233:814-827. [PMID: 30255591 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The characterization of the rabbit mammary pheromone, which is sensed by the main olfactory system, has made this species a unique model for the study of pheromonal communication in mammals. This discovery has brought attention to the global understanding of chemosensory communication in this species. Chemocommunication is mediated by two distinct organs located in the nasal cavity, the main olfactory epithelium and the vomeronasal organ (VNO). However, there is a lack of knowledge about the vomeronasal system in rabbits. To understand the role of this system, an exhaustive anatomical and histological study of the rabbit VNO was performed. The rabbit VNO was studied macroscopically by light microscopy, and by histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques. We employed specific histological staining techniques (periodic acid-Schiff, Alcian blue, Gallego's trichrome), confocal autofluorescence, histochemical labelling with the lectin Ulex europaeus agglutinin (UEA-I), and immunohistochemical studies of the expression of the Gαi2 and Gαo proteins and olfactory marker protein. The opening of the vomeronasal duct into the nasal cavity and its indirect communication with the oral cavity through a functional nasopalatine duct was demonstrated by classical dissection and microdissection. In a series of transverse histological sections, special attention was paid to the general distribution of the various soft-tissue components of this organ (duct, glands, connective tissue, blood vessels and nerves) and to the nature of the capsule of the organ. Among the main morphological features that distinguish the rabbit VNO, the presence of a double envelope, which is bony externally and cartilaginous internally, and highly developed venous sinuses stand out. This observation indicates the crucial role played in this species by the pumping mechanism that introduces chemical signals into the vomeronasal duct. The functional properties of the organ are also confirmed by the presence of a well-developed neuroepithelium and profuse glandular tissue that is positive for neutral mucopolysaccharides. The role of glycoconjugates was assessed by the identification of the α1-2 fucose glycan system in the neuroepithelium of the VNO employing UEA-I lectin. The pattern of labelling, which was concentrated around the commissures of the sensory epithelium and more diffuse in the central segments, is different from that found in most mammals studied. According to the expression of G-proteins, two pathways have been described in the VNOs of mammals: neuroreceptor cells expressing the Gαi2 protein (associated with vomeronasal receptor type 1); and cells expressing Gαo (associated with vomeronasal receptor type 2). The latter pathway is absent in most mammals studied. The expression of both G-protein families in the rabbit VNO places Lagomorpha together with rodents and insectivores in a small group of mammals belonging to the two-path model. These findings support the notion that the rabbit possesses a highly developed VNO, with many specific morphological features, which highlights the significance of chemocommunication in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula R Villamayor
- Faculty of Veterinary, Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Jose Manuel Cifuentes
- Faculty of Veterinary, Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Patricia Fdz-de-Troconiz
- Faculty of Veterinary, Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Pablo Sanchez-Quinteiro
- Faculty of Veterinary, Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Clinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
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20
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Tomiyasu J, Kondoh D, Sakamoto H, Matsumoto N, Haneda S, Matsui M. Lectin histochemical studies on the olfactory gland and two types of gland in vomeronasal organ of the brown bear. Acta Histochem 2018; 120:566-571. [PMID: 30001800 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2018.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Olfaction is mediated by the vomeronasal and main olfactory systems, and the peripheral vomeronasal organ (VNO) processes species-specific chemicals that are associated with various behaviors in mammals. Sensory epithelial surfaces of the olfactory mucosa and VNO are covered by mucosal fluid that contains secretory products derived from associated glands, and glycoconjugates in the mucosal fluid are involved in odorant reception. The VNO of brown bears contains two types of glands; submucosal vomeronasal glands (VNG) and multicellular intraepithelial glands (MIG). The present study determined the labelling profiles of 21 lectins in the olfactory glands (OG), VNG and MIG of young male brown bears. The OG reacted with 12 lectins, and the VNG and MIG were positive for seven and eight lectins, respectively. Six lectins bound only to the OG, while four reacted with both or either of the VNG and MIG, but not the OG. The differences of lectin labelling pattern between the OG and glands in the VNO suggest that glycans in covering mucosal fluids differ between the olfactory mucosa and VNO. In addition, Bandeiraea simplicifolia lectin-I, Sophora japonica agglutinin and Jacalin reacted with the MIG but not the VNG, whereas Datura stramonium lectin and concanavalin A bound to the VNG, but not the MIG. These findings indicate that the properties of secretory substances differ between the two types of glands in the bear VNO, and that the various secretions from these two types of glands may function in the lumen of VNO together.
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21
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TOMIYASU J, KONDOH D, YANAGAWA Y, SATO Y, SAKAMOTO H, MATSUMOTO N, SASAKI K, HANEDA S, MATSUI M. Testicular regulation of seasonal change in apocrine glands in the back skin of the brown bear (Ursus arctos). J Vet Med Sci 2018; 80:1034-1040. [PMID: 29709899 PMCID: PMC6021878 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.17-0689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Brown bears communicate with other individuals using marking behavior. Bipedal back rubbing has been identified as a common marking posture. Oily substances are secreted via enlarged sebaceous glands in the back skin of male bears during the breeding season. However, whether apocrine gland secretions are associated with seasonal changes remains unknown. The present study aimed to identify histological and histochemical changes in the secretory status and the glycocomposition of the apocrine glands in the back skin of male bears in response to changes in seasons and/or reproductive status. The apocrine glands of intact males during the breeding season were significantly larger and more active than those of castrated males during the breeding season and those of intact males during the non-breeding season. Lectin histochemical analyses revealed a more intense reaction to Vicia villosa agglutinin (VVA) in the cytoplasm, mainly Golgi zones of apocrine cells during the breeding season among castrated, compared with intact males. Positive staining for VVA was quite intense and weak in intact males during the non-breeding and breeding seasons, respectively. Ultrastructural analysis revealed VVA positivity in the Golgi zone, especially around secretory granules in apocrine cells. Changes in lectin binding might reflect a change in the secretory system in the apocrine cells. The present histological and histochemical findings of changes in the secretory status and glycocomposition of the apocrine glands according to the season and reproductive status suggest that these glands are important for chemical communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jumpei TOMIYASU
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Obihiro University of
Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu
University, Gifu, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Daisuke KONDOH
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Obihiro University of
Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Yojiro YANAGAWA
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Graduate School of Veterinary
Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu SATO
- Laboratory of Wildlife Ecology, College of Agriculture, Food
and Environmental Sciences, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu, Hokkaido 069-0836,
Japan
| | | | | | | | - Shingo HANEDA
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Obihiro University of
Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Motozumi MATSUI
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Obihiro University of
Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu
University, Gifu, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
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Ibrahim D. Immunolocalization of Receptor and Chemoreceptor Modules in the Sheep Vomeronasal Organ. Cells Tissues Organs 2018; 205:85-92. [PMID: 29672316 DOI: 10.1159/000487758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The vomeronasal organ (VNO) is the peripheral receptor organ of the accessory olfactory system, which is responsible for both sexual and innate behaviors. The degree of neuronal differentiation and maturation of the vomeronasal receptor cells together with the verification of the presence of the solitary chemoreceptor cells (SCCs) in the VNO of Corriedale sheep were assessed using immunofluorescence. A protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5), which is a neuronal marker recognized to be expressed in most neurons of vertebrate species, an olfactory marker protein (OMP) that is precise for mature olfactory receptor cells, and lastly phospholipase C-β2 (PLC-β2), a marker in the signal transduction pathway of SCCs, were all tested. The cell bodies and dendrites of almost all receptor cells in the sensory epithelium were strongly positive for PGP 9.5 and to a lesser extent for OMP. In the nonsensory wall, all cells were negative for both PGP 9.5 and OMP; however, some positive PGP 9.5 immunoreactive fibers were identified. For PLC-β2, only 1 basally situated SCC could be identified in the sensory epithelium. A higher number was demonstrated in the nonsensory wall. Corriedale sheep possess matured, fully differentiated vomeronasal receptor cells in their sensory wall, suggesting an appropriate pheromone perception. Additionally, the VNO in sheep may participate in the usual transduction mechanisms, though it is seemingly not a chemoreceptor organ.
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