The development, structure, and function of the submandibular cutaneous (chin) glands in the rabbit.

Abstract

Embryological, histological, and histochemical features of the chin glands in the rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.), are described. The glands are modified sweat glands which develop as appendages of the first hair follicles of the pelage. All the secretory cells are of the merocrine type, although some secrete in the typical apocrine manner. In the adult, the glands are much better developed in males than in females. Two main types of secretory cells were clearly seen in most animals, particularly adult males. Cells which stained heavily with osmium tetroxide (dark cells) were also present. No other mammalian cutaneous gland is so complex. Histochemical techniques to demonstrate enzymes revealed that particular glandular components contained large amounts of alkaline phosphatase and the whole gland was well supplied with nerves containing cholinesterases. The function of the secretion from these glands in marking territories is outlined.