Kocatepe Veterinary Journal

Abstract

Mast cells are particularly in association with structures, especially the skin, respiratory, and digestive systems in proximity to surfaces that interface with the external environment. This study was carry out to demonstrate the distribution and heterogeneity of mast cells in the Angora goat glandula mandibularis by using morphological, histochemical, and immunohistochemical methods. A total of seven healthy male adult Angora goats' mandibular glands were studied. Mast cells were distinctly distinguished by their metachromatic staining in preparates stained with toluidine blue. The cells were observed in various sizes and shapes, especially round, oval, and elongate-shaped. Mast cells were seen in both intralobular and interlobular interstitium in glandula mandibularis. Many mast cells were observed in the interlobular interstitium, especially around the blood vessels. The Alcian-blue/Safranin O combined staining method was used to determine mast cell heterogeneity. In glandula mandibularis, blue-colored alcian-blue (AB) (+) and pink-red colored safranin O (SO) (+) mast cell subtypes were observed. Chymase positive mast cells were usually observed one by one in both intralobular and interlobular interstitium. As a result, the mandibular gland of Angora goat which is local species was examined; the morphology, locations, heterogeneity of mast cells, and chymase expression were specified.