SECRETORY IMMUNE SYSTEM OF RABBIT OCULAR ADNEXA

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 18  (10) , 1093-1096
Abstract
A distinct system of immunity in a variety of animals is located subjacent to epithelial surfaces and is typified by predominance of immunoglobulin (Ig)A and secretory component (SC) in various external secretions, including tears. Normal rabbit lacrimal gland, conjunctiva and cornea were examined for presence of Ig and SC. IgA-staining plasma cells predominated within lacrimal gland and conjuctival stroma, and SC was found in < epithelial cells of both these tissues but not within corneal epithelium. These observations were consistent with findings for other secretory sites in rabbits and humans and established lacrimal gland and conjunctiva as integral parts of the rabbit secretory immune system.