CELL SPECIALIZATION IN EPITHELIUM OF SMALL-INTESTINE OF FEEDING XENOPUS-LAEVIS TADPOLES

  • 1 January 1978
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 126  (MAY) , 133-144
Abstract
The intestinal epithelium of feeding X. laevis tadpoles was studied using light microscopic, EM and autoradiographic techniques. The wall of the small intestine differs from that of other vertebrates in that it lacks villous-like folds. Three epithelial cell types were recognized: principal cells, gland cells and endocrine cells. Lymphocytes were also present. No undifferentiated cells were identified and there were no differences between the cells of 1 type in their degree of specialization. Development in nuclear transplant experiments with intestinal epithelial cells was due to the transplantation of nuclei from specialized cells.