Histochemical Localization of Carbonic Anhydrase in the Testis and Epididymis of the Boar

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Abstract
The testis and epididymis of sexually mature, fertile boars were studied for localization of carbonic anhydrase (CA) using a cobalt precipitation technique. In the testis, cytoplasmic CA was found in the Sertoli cells and in the capillaries surrounding the seminiferous tubules. The epididymal duct was divided into initial, middle and terminal segments and regional differences in CA activity were observed. The cell membranes of the basal cells were stained in the initial and middle segments. Strong cytoplasmic CA staining was present only in the apical cells in the initial and middle segments. The basolateral cell membranes were stained in the principal cells of the terminal segment and the ductus deferens. As a rule the capillaries surrounding the epididymal duct were unstained. The enzyme, specifically localized in regions of the male genitalia acting as sperm reservoirs, might be related to the quiescence of the stored spermatozoa by influencing the acid-base status of the epididymal fluid.

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