Color Atlas of Xenopuslaevis Histology

Color Atlas of
Xenopus laevis Histology

Color Atlas of
Xenopus laevis Histology
--
by
ALLAN F. WIECHMANN, PH.D.
Departments of CeH Biology and Ophthalmology
University of Oklahoma
and
CELESTE R. WIRSIG-WIECHMANN, PH.D.

Departments of CeH Biology and Zoology
University of Oklahoma
Springer Science+Business Media, LLC

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Wiechmann, Alian F., 1954-

Color atlas of Xenopus laevis histology / by Alian F. Wiechmann and Celeste R. Wirsig-
Wiechmann.
p.em.
Inc1udes bibliographical references and index.
ISBN 978-1-4613-4876-4 ISBN 978-1-4419-9286-4 (eBook)
DOI 10.1007/978-1-4419-9286-4
1. Xenopus laevis-Histology-Atlases. 1. Wirsig-Wiechmann, Celeste R., 1955- Il.
Ţitle.
QL668.E265 W54 2003
597.8'654--dc21 2002041377
Copyright © 2003 Springer Science+Business Media New York

Originally published by Kluwer Academic Publishers in 2003
Softcover reprint ofthe hardcover lst edition 2003
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Printed an acid-free paper,

To Paul, Elliot and Nicholas
Our most fruitful collaborations
Preface:
The stimulus to write a color atlas of Xenopus laevis histology arose from
the needs of the author's research program. We had developed antibodies
specific for some receptors in the African Clawed Frog, X. laevis, and
although our major interest was the retina, we were also interested in
examining the receptor distribution in many organs throughout the organism .
It was then that the significant differences between amphibian histological
structures and mammalian histology became apparent to us.
Our search for a central source that described the microscopic anatomy of
cells and organs of the adult X. laevis or any other amphibian was not
successful. We found this somewhat surprising, given that X. laevis is an
important model for early development, intercellular and intracellular
signaling, cell surface receptors, chromosome replication; cytoskeletal and
nuclear assembly; cell cycle progression, and vision physiology. Also, recent
advancements in transgenic X. laevis technology make this an ideal model for
the study of expression of genes and their functions. To facilitate the
interpretation of the anticipated acceleration of new transgenic X. laevis
studies, a central source of X. laevis histology was needed.
As the directors of the Medical Histology, Dental General Histology and
Oral Histology courses at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences
Center, combined with our research experiences with amphibian models, we
felt that we were poised to produce a central source of X. laevis histology
images. The purpose of this atlas is to serve as a guide to assist scientists to
gain a better understanding of the appearance and distribution of cells and
other components that comprise the organs and tissues of X. laevis.
The images presented in this atlas were captured on an Olympus stereo
photomicroscope equipped with a Spot camera . Some low magnification
images were obtained on a Nikon dissecting stereomicroscope equipped with
a digital camera. The tissues examined were obtained from male and female
adult X. laevis that were perfused with a 4% formaldehyde, 2% glutaradehyde
fixative. The organs were processed for paraffin sectioning, and then stained
with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) .
We greatly appreciate the hard work and excellent technical assistance of
Ms. Carla Hansens, the Histology Technician in the Department of Cell
Biology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. She
embedded, sectioned, mounted and stained the specimens for the over 1,000
slides used in this project. Without her admirable work ethic and devotion to
her craft, this atlas would never have become a reality. We also thank our Cell
Biology Department chairman, Dr. Robert E. Anderson, who contributed
greatly to this work by supporting our access to the technical assistance and
facilities needed to create these images. We thank Rajendra Dohte and
Radhika Dighe for their valuable help in assembling the index.
Allan F. Wiechmann, Ph.D.

Celeste R. Wirsig-Wiechman, Ph.D.
Contents
Preface VII
Contents Vlll
1. Basic Tissues 1
Epithelial Tissue 1
Connective Tissue 5
Muscular Tissue 16
Nervous Tissue 19
2. Cardiovascular System 21
BloodVessels 21
Heart 23
3. Lymphatic Organs 27
Diffuse Lymphoid Tissue 27
Lymph Node 28
Spleen 29
4. Digestive Organs 31
Stomach 31
Small Intestine 35
Colon 37
Liver 40
Gall Bladder 42
Pancreas 43
5. Respiratory System 47
Nasal Cavity 47
Trachea 51
Lung 52
6. Vrinary System 57
Kidney 57
Ureter 65
Urinary Bladder 66
7. Endocrine Organ s 69
Pituitary Gland 69
Pineal Gland 73
Thyroid Gland 74
Adrenal (Interrenal) Gland 75
8. Repro ductive Organs 77

Ovary 77
Oviduct 79
Testes 81
9. Integument 85
Epidermis 85
Dermis 86
Glands 87
Lateral Line Organ 88
10. Cranial Structures 89

Overview of Cranial Structures 89
Oral Cavity 90
Epiglottis 97
Esophagus 99
Nasa l Cavity 100
Brain 105
Middle and Inner Ear 11 2
Eye and Associa ted Structures 122
Index 129
x
Chapter 1
Basic Tissues
Body organs are composed of a combination of four basic tissue types,

although one type is usually predominant. The four basic tissue types are
epithelial tissue, connective tissue, muscular tissue, and nervous tissue. Each
of the basic tissue types will be briefly presented in this chapter, but will
also appear in figures throughout this atlas.
,------------------,
Figure 1. Simple squamous epithelium
I EPITHELIAL TISSUE consists of a single layer of flattened
cells that typically line a lumen, body
cavity, or surface. A. Simple squamous
epithelium lining the outer surface of
the oocytes. B. Simple squamous
epithelium lining the outer surface of
the colon. The epithelium and
underlying connective tissue make up
the serosa. Directly underlying the
serosa is smooth muscle in cross-
section . At the lowest part of the figure
is smooth muscle in longitudinal or
oblique orientation. Between the two
muscle layers is a neuron (*), which is
part of the post-ganglionic parasympath-
etic plexus called Auerbach ' s plexus, or
the myenteric plexus, which innervates
the smooth muscle cells.
___-:::;....simple cuboidal epithelium
Figure 2. Simple cuboidal epithelium. The simple cuboidal epithelium lining the external
surface of the kidney is ciliated, and the distal convoluted tubules are lined by simple
cuboidal epithelium (arrows). The height and width of cuboidal epithelium is
approximately equal, resulting in a cube-shaped cell.
A. F. Wiechmann et al., Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology

© Kluwer Academic Publishers 2003
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Basic Tissues
Figure 3. Simple cuboidal

epithelium . Simple cuboidal
epithelial cells line the
inner surface of ducts in the
pancreas. The epithelium of
the larger duct could also be
classified as low columnar
epithelium . Loose connec-
tive tissue surrounds the
ducts.
simple columnar epithelium __

. ...."""-
Figure 4. Simple columnar epithelium . A. Simple columnar epithelium lines the lumen of
the gall bladder. The columnar cells are taller than they are wide. The epithelium is
observed in a longitudinal orientation. Loose connective tissue underlies the epithelium, as
it does in all organs. B. Simple columnar epithelial cells of the gall bladder shown in an
oblique section . Note the regional differences in morphology from one region of the cell
to the next. The most apical portions of the cells demonstrate a hexagonal shape and the
cytoplasm is eosinophilic as indicated by the pink staining (arrows). In the nuclear region,
there is only a thin rim of cytoplasm surrounding the basophilic (blue) nuclei (indicated by
asterisks in A and B). The basal portion of the epithelial cells are not as intensely stained
as in the apical portion (indicated by arrowheads in A and B), and are in contact with a
thin basement membrane.
2
Color Atlas of Xenopu s laevis Histology Basic Tissues
stratified squamous keratinized epithelium
Figure 5. Stratified squamous keratinized epithelium. A. Low magni fication of the

stratified squamous keratin ized epithelium (arrow) of the epidermis of the skin. Note the
presence of exocrine glands and dense irregular connective tissue in the underlying dermis.
B. High magnification of the epidermis. Arrowheads indicate the superficial layer of
squamous epithelium. There is a thin layer of protective keratin above the cells. Note the
thick basement memb rane (pink) indicated by arrows on the basal surface of the epithelium
which separates the epithel ium from the underlying loose connective tissue. The dark
,
brown cells that appear in the epiderm is are pigmented cells.
stratified squamous non-keratin ized epithelium
Figure 6. Stratified squamous non-keratinized epithelium. A. The simple stratified non-

keratinized epithelium (arrow) of the epidermis of the cornea. The short arrow indicates
the superficial layer of squamous epithelium. Note the basement memb rane indicated by
athe long arrow on the basal surface of the epithelium which separates the epithelium
from the underlying connective tissue.
3
Figure 7. Stratified cuboi-

dal epithelium. Stratified
cuboidal epithelium is com-
prised of two or more layers
and the superficial layer of
cells are cuboidal in shape.
This type of epithelium
often lines large ducts and
other passages.
pseudostraffied columnar epithelium
Figure 8. Pseudostratified columnar epithelium . Pseudostratified ciliated columnar

epithelium with goblet cells lines the airway of the trachea, and is often referred to as
respiratory epithelium. Note that in pseudostratified columnar epithelium, all of the
epithelial cells contact the basement membrane, but not all of them reach the apical
surface. There is a population of basal cells in contact with the basement membrane
that give rise to new epithelial cells that will later contact with the apical surface.
Figure 9. Pseudostratified
columnar epithelium. An
example of pseudostratified
columnar epithelium is the
neural olfactory epithelium
in the nasal cavity. In this
example, the sensory cilia
on the apical surface are
obscured by a layer of
mucous (*). The columnar
epithelial cells all contact a
basement membrane.
4
~ transitiona l epithelium
Figure 10. Transitional epithelium. A. Transitional epithelium lining the lumen of the
urinary bladder. It is a stratified epithelium, with rounded (or "dome-shaped") cells on
the apical surface. B. Transitional epithelium of the urinary bladder demonstrating the
presence of goblet cells whose apical membranes are in contact with the lumen, so
mucus can be secreted into the lumen. The major characteristic of transitional
epithelium is its ability to modify its shape in response to distention . The epithelium in
A and most of B is in the relaxed or non-distended configuration . When the bladder
fills, it stretches the epithelium , which results in a squamous appearance in most of the
epithelial cells, especially the surface cells (arrowheads) .
II CONNECTIVE TISSUE
Connective tissues are classified according to their basic functions,
which is to provide structural and metabolic support for the tissues of the
body. They are subdivided into regular connective tissue (CT), and
specialized CT, which include cartilage, bone, adipose and blood.
5
Classification of connecti ve tissues
1I.I Regular connecti ve tissue (connective tissue proper)
ILI.I. Loose (areolar) connective tissue
I1.LII Dense connective tissu e
A. Dense irregular connective tissue
B. Dense regular connective tissue
1I.1I Specialized connective tissues
11.11.1 Cartilage
I1.I1.II Bone
11.11.111 Adipose
I1.I1.IV Blood
ILl Regular connecti ve tissue (connective tissue proper)

11.1.1. Loose (areolar) connective tissue
Figure II. Loose (areo lar) con necti ve tissue underlies most epithelial layers an is ofte n
referrd to as the lamina propri a. Loose con nective tiss ue (CT) underlies the surface
ep ithelium of the lumen of the gall bladder, and is separated from the epithelium by a
basement membrane. Loose CT is basicall y composed of cells and extracellular matrix,
which is composed of ground substance and co llagen fiber s (pink). The collagen is
produced by the fibroblasts. There are man y small blood vessels , and a wide range of
perm anent and immigrant cell s, such as lymphocytes, macrophages, plasma cells, and
leuk ocytes such as neutrophils and eosinophil s,
6
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histolog y Basic Tissues
.
se connes'-
Figure 12. Loose connective
tissue. The loose connective
tissue (CT) underlies the
surface epithelium of the
lumen of the stomach, and is
composed of a loose matrix of
collagen fibers, extracellular
matrix and fibroblasts There
are many small blood vessels,
and deep to the loose CT is
dense irregular CT.
11.1.11 Dense connective tissue

A. Dense irregular connective tissue
dense
co a en
bu dies
Figure 13. Dense irregular connective tissue. Dense irregular connective tissue (CT)
surrounds hyaline cartilage, and is composed of a dense matrix of large collagen
bundles, extracellular matrix and fibroblasts There are very few blood vesse ls In this
specimen, some of the cells may be chondroblasts. Another example of dense irregular
CT is shown at the bottom of figure I!.
7
B. Dense regular connective tissue
musce
dense regular CO"'Rlec~thlre lI::t::tUIi
~II en~
bunmes
fibroblasts
hyaline cartilage .
Figure 14. Dense regular connective tissue. A. Dense regular connective tissue (CT) is
predominant in tendons. Note the attachment of the tendon to the skeletal muscle. B. High
magnification of a tendon showing collagen bundles oriented parallel to each other, with
fibroblasts interspersed in parallel with the collagen bundles. C. Dense regular CT is
predominant in ligaments. Ligaments resemble tendons, but the fibroblasts tend to have a
more regular orientation with the collagen bundles.
8
11.11 Specialized connective tissues
II.II.I Cartilage
Figure 15. Hyaline cartilage. A. Low magnification image of the hyaline cartilage that
provide s the structural support for the trachea . Note that the cartilage is completely
surrounded by a dense connective tissue perichondrium , which is one source of new
chondroc ytes. B. High magnification the trachea showing the lacunar spaces occupied by
chondrocytes. Chondrocytes arc not well-preserve d during fixation, but the nuclei can be
discerned. lsogenous groups arc clusters of daughter chondrocytes that have divided, and
will produce additional basophilic matrix resulting in interstitial grow th.
9
Cartilage is a specialized connective tissue that provides structural

support. The three types of cartilage are hyaline cartila ge, elastic cartilage,
and fibrocartilage. Elastic cartilage is similar in structure to hyaline
cartilage, but has elastic fibers in the matrix in addition to collagen fibers.
Fibrocartilage is often attached to bone as a transition tissue between dense
connective tissue and bone or hyaline cartilage. There are many large
collagen bundles in the extracellular matrix of fibrocartilage, and
fibrocartilage is not surrounded by a perichondrium.
Figure 16. Elastic cartilage. A. Low magnification image of the clastic cartilage that
provides the structural support for the epiglottis. Note that the cartilage is completely
surrounded by a perichondrium, wh ich is one source of new chondrocytes. B. High
magnification of the epiglottis showing the lacunar spaces occupied by chondrocytes. The
presence of the thin branch ing elastic fibers cannot be easily observed in H & E
preparations. Isogenous groups are present, as in hyaline cartilage (figure 14). C. Elastic
cartilage provides flexible structural support for the vocal chords.
10
fibrocartilage
~ collagen bundles
~ isogenous
/ groups
, hyaline
cartilage
Figure 17. High magnification image of the fibrocartilage that provides a transition
zone between dense regular connective tissue and hyaline cartilage . Fibrocartilage
does not have a perichondrium, so all of its growth is interstitial (within the
cartilage). Lacunar spaces are occupied by chondrocytes, and isogenous groups are
present. There are large bundles of eosinophilic collagen in the extracellular matrix.
11.11.11 Bone
Figure 18. Low magnification image of the mature lamellar bone of a limb. In the center
of the bone is the marrow containing hematopoietic cells. Osteocytes are located in
lacunae in a circular pattern around the circumference.
11
Co lor Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Basic Tissues
Fig ure 19. Lamellar and woven bone. A low magnifi cation image of a bone in cross-
section showing the mature lamellar bone surrounding the outer circumference and
covered with a perio steum. The woven or immature bone lies deeper in the bone organ,
and the lacunae are oriented randomly rather that in a circumferential pattern as in the
lamellar bone. In the center of the bone lies the marrow cavity containing the
hematopoietic cells. Calcified cartilage is present, which is converted to woven bone by
osteoblasts.
ne marrow
Fig ure 20. Bone and marrow cavity. In the center of the bone lies the marrow cavity
containing the hematopoietic cells. The bone surface is lined with flat bone lining cells,
which can differentiate into osteoblasts as needed . Osteoblasts also line the bone
surface, and produc e and calcify the bone matrix. Osteocytes are located in lacunae, and
communicate with other osteocytes by small cell processes located in small channels in
the bone called canaliculi.
12
Figure 21. Canaliculi

in lamellar bone. The
thin blue lines are
small channels called
canaliculi that radiate
from osteocytes and
contain cellular proc-
esses of adjace nt cells
which contact each
other via gap jun c-
tions. These communi-
cating junctions are
critical for the passage
of oxyge n and nutri-
ents to osteocytes.
Figure 22. Osteoblasts and osteoclasts. A. Osteoblasts line the bone surface, and produce
and calcify the bone matrix (osteoid). They are basoph ilic cuboidal-like cells. After
secreting osteoid, they eventually become entrapped in the bone matrix that they produced
and become osteocytes (*). B. Osteoclasts resorb bone by expelling lysosomal enzymes
and carbonic acid onto the bone surface . The osteoclasts are closely adhered to the bone,
and the area of bone resorption is called a Howship 's lacuna. A dense connective tissue
called the periosteum surrounds the outer surface of bone.
13
Color Atla s of Xenopus laevis Histology Basic Tissues
Figure 23. Low magnificati on image of a synovial joint. The ends of the long bones are
covered with hyaline cartilage where the two bones articulate with each other to form a join t.
There is no perichondrium on the articulating surface of the hyaline cartilage. The synovial
joint is enclosed within a synovial capsule, with a capsular ligament form ing the outermost
layer. A delicate connective tissue synovial membrane lines the synovial cavity containing the
synovial fluid made by cells of the synovial membrane.
11.11.111 Adipose
adipose tls ue
-. (
nuclei
A
"
B /
Fig ure 24. Adipose tissue (white fat). A. Low magnifi cation of adipose tissue. The white
space taking up most of the interior of the cells are the location of the fat bodies, which
were extracted during tissue processing. B. High magnification of adipose tissue. The
adipose cells have a thin rim of eosino philic cytoplasm, and a dense eccen tric nucleus.
14
II.II.IV Blood
RBe
"
I B
B
A
B-
I
Figure 25. Peripheral blood smear stained with Wright' s stain. A. Red blood cells
(RBCs; erythrocytes) arc nucleated, with eosinophilic cytoplasm, and arc larger than the
leukocytes. Neutrophils (N) have a relatively pale cytoplasm, with a highly lobulated
nucleus. Monocytes (M) have a large indented nucleus with pale blue cytoplasm, and
lymphocytes (L) have small oval nuclei with blue cytoplasm. B. Basophils (B) have
dark blue granules, and eosinophils (E) have deep red granules in the cytoplasm. C-F.
Additional examples of leukocytes and RBCs. B, basophil; E, eosinophil; L,
lymphocyte; M, monocyte; N, neutrophil.
15
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histo logy Basic Tissues
Figure 26. Bone marrow . Within the bone marrow are the hematopoietic cells that give
rise to new peripheral blood cells. The bone marrow has many small blood vessels. The
red blood cells are nucleated and are larger than the developing leukocytes. The
developing eosinophils are easily identified by the presence of red granules in the
cytoplasm.
III Muscular Tissue
Classification of muscular tissues

IILI Skeletal muscle (striated)
111.11 Cardiac muscle (striated)
IILIII Smooth muscle (non-striated)
Muscular tissues are classified as such based on their common function,

which is contrac tility . Of the three types of muscle, skeletal muscle and
cardiac muscle can be classified as striated muscle because of the presence
of striatio ns perpendicular to the long axis of the cells. The striations are the
result of the highly organized myo filame nts that are respo nsible for muscle
cont raction.
Ske letal muscle cells are actually syncytiums of many cells, so they are
referred to as muscle fibers, and the plasma membrane and cytop lasm are
referred to as the sarcolemma and sarco plasm , respectively. Cardiac muscle
cells are high ly branches, and are connected to each other by junctional
comp lexes. Smooth muscle cells are relatively smaller, and their
contractions are generally under autonomic control.
16
Figure 27. (ABOVE) Longit-

udinal section of skeletal
muscle . A. Low magnification
of skeletal muscle indicating
the individual fibers. B. High
magnification of muscle
fibers. Interstitial space
surrounding the fibers contain
blood vessels and loose
connective tissue . Note the
alternating dark and light
bands perpendicular to the
long axis of the fibers.
Figure 28. Cross section of skeletal muscle . Low magnification of the organization of
the muscle fibers. Fiber bundles are separated from each other by a connective tissue
perimysium, and the individual fibers are separated by an endomysium. Fiber nuclei are
located randomly throughout the sarcoplasm .
17
Figure 29. Cardiac muscle. A. Longitud inal section of cardiac muscle. Cells are branched,
and have striations in the cytoplasm. B. Cross section of cardiac muscle. The nuclei are
located centrall y within the cells.
Figure 30. Smooth muscle. Longitudinal (L) and cross (X) section of smooth muscle in
the muscularis extem a of the colon. Note the fusiform (tapered) shape of the cells.
18
Color Atlas of Xenopu s laevis Histology Basic Tissues
IV Nervous Tissue
Figure 31. Myelinated periph eral nerve. A. Low magnification of peripheral nerve
showing the cellular perineurium that surrounds the nerve bundle. Note the elongate
nuclei of the myelin-p roducin g Schwarm cells. B. High magnification of periphe ral
nerve. Axons are ensheathed in layers of myelin The Nodes of Ranvier are located
between the paranodal cytoplasm.
perineurium _~~~~ _
Figure 32. Myelinated peri-
pheral nerve in cross section .
Small axons are surrounded by
the layers of myelin. The nerve
bundl e is surrounded by the
perineurium.
19
Figure 33. Sensory (trigeminal) ganglion. A. Low magnification of sensory

ganglion. The ganglion has many large pseudounipolar neurons. B. High
magnification of sensory ganglion. The sensory neurons are surrounded by satellite
cells. Myelinated nerves pass through the ganglion.
Figure 34. Neurons in the

central nervous system. The
brain tissue that is in contact
with the ventricles is covered
with a single layer of ependymal
cells. Surrounding the neural cell
bodies of the optic tectum is the
neuropil, which is comprised of
nerve cell processes and support-
ing glial cells.
20
Chapter 2
Cardiovascular System
The cardiovascular system consists of the heart and blood vessels and
distribute s oxygen, nutrients, and other molecul es to the tissues and collects
waste produ cts. Thin-walled lymphatic vessels transport lymphatic fluid
from the tissues into the circulation.
I BLOOD VESSELS
Figure I. Small artery, vein, and lymphatic vessel. A sma ll artery and small vein are
seen in the loose connective tissue underlying the carti lage of the trachea . The small
veins cons ist almost entirely of a sing le layer of endothelium (simple squamous
epithelium), whereas the arteries have at least one layer of smooth muscle overlying the
endothelium. The lymphatic vessel resembles the vein, but can be distinguished based
on the appearance of the endothelium.
Figure 2. Lymphatic vessels.

Lymphatic vessels begin as blind-
ended sacs (Iacteals) that collect
lymph atic fluid from the interstitial
space of tissues, such as in the
lamina propria of the duodenum
shown here. These vessels are lined
by an endothelium, and are often
difficult to discern from veins.

Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Cardiovascular System
endothelium
peripheral
nerve
.-
~RBCS endothelium
ca pill a ry ",."",.,
Figure 3. Blood and lymphatic vessels.

A. The lumen of a small artery is lined
with endothelium with a layer of smooth
muscle surrounding it. B. Arteries are
often accompanied by peripheral nerves.
C. Capillaries are composed of a single
layer of endothelium, and the lumen is
just large enough for an erythrocyte to
pass. D-E. Arterioles are small arteries
with smooth muscle around them . In
~ longitudinal section, the smooth muscle
cells are seen wrapping around the
vessel, and are oriented perpendicular to
the endothelium nuclei. F. Longitudinal
section of a small artery. G. Longitu-
dinal section of a capillary in skeletal
muscle. H. A neurovascular bundle
consists of a peripheral nerve, an artery,
a vein, and a lymphatic vessel.
22
II HEART
Figure 4. Low magnification of the heart.

The outer surface of the heart is
surro unded by an epicardium, and the
inner surface is lined by an endocar dium.
The two atria and the one ventricle are the
chambers through which blood is pumped .
Figure 5. The atrium and ventricle. A. The atria are surrounded by an epicardium
that consists of a layer of endothelium and some loose connective tissue containing
blood vessels and nerves. The myometrium, composed of cardiac muscle is
organized into thin strands. B. The myometrium of the ventricle is quite large and is
also surrounded by an epicardium.
23
Heart
Figure 6. Heart valves. A. Low

magnification of the valve of the
heart. Blood flows between the
atria and ventricle though valves
composed of dense irregular
dense connective tissue . B. High
magnification of the heart valve.
irregular
connective
tissue
Figure 7. Endocardium
and myocardium . The
luminal surface of the
myocardium is lined by
an endothelium (endo-
cardium ; simple squa-
mous epithelium).
24
Figure 8. Purkinje fibers. Located in the subendocardial region of the ventricle are
Purkinje fibers. They are modified cardiac muscle cells specialized for the
conduction of electric impulses from the atrioventricular node. The abundance of
glycogen in the cytoplasm of Purkinje fibers accounts for their lighter-staining
appearance , since the glycogen is extracted during tissue preparation.
25
Chapter 3
Lymphatic organs
The lymphati c system consists of group s of cells and organs organized

to defend the body against foreign antigens, such as bacteria , viruses, and
tumor cells. The cells are mostly lymphoc ytes and macrophages, as well as
the connective tissue cells that provide structural support for the organs.
I DIFFUSE LYMPHOID TISSUE
Figure I. Diffuse lymphoid tissue. Diffuse lymph oid tissues are localized collectio ns
of lymphocytes, and arc common in the lamina propria of the alimentary and
respiratory tracts. They are supported by a stroma of reticular fibers and reticular cells.
Figure 2. Diffuse lymphoid

tissue. In the liver, diffuse
lymphoid tissues are located
in the loose connective tissue
associated with the portal
triads.

Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Lymphatic Organs
II LYMPH NODE
Figure 3. Lymph nodes of Xenopus . Lymph nodes are small organs occurring in
series along lymphatic vessels . They are surrounded by a dense connective tissue
capsule. The lymphoid tissue is in two regions : the outer cortex which contains
lymphatic nodules, and an inner medulla which contains medullary cords.
Figure 4. Sinuses of the lymph node

cortex . Underlying the capsule is a
sinus that receives lymphatic fluid
and cells from the afferent lymphatic
vessels . The subcapsular sinuses drain
into the marginal sinuses which
penetrate into the cortex to give rise
to the medullary sinusoids .
28
Figure 5. High endothelial venules . In the area of the cortex adjacent to the medulla
are located high endothelial venules (HEVs) . Lymphocyte movement from the
circulatory system into the lymph nodes occurs at the HEVs, which are lined by
unusually tall endothelial cells .
III SPLEEN
Figure 6. Low magnification of the

spleen. Note the distribution of the
dense-staining lymphatic nodules (white
pulp) containing many lymphocytes.
Surrounding the white pulp is the
lighter-staining red pulp that is com-
posed of splenic cords and sinuses .
Figure 7. Red and white

pulp of the spleen. Located
near the center of the white
pulp is a central artery
which conducts blood to-
wards the splenic sinuses,
which are located in the red
pulp.
29
Figure 8. Red and white pulp of the spleen. In the red pulp , the splenic sinuses are
filled with erythrocytes and other cells of the general circulation. Within the white
pulp are lymphoc ytes and macropha gcs.
Figure 9. High magnification of the white pulp of the spleen . The lymphocytes
surround the central artery. Macrophages arc also prominent in the white pulp and can
be identified by the presence of eosinophilic cytoplasm.
30
Chapter 4
Gastrointestinal System
The major function of the gastrointestinal system is to digest and absorb

nutrients from ingested material. The ingested material travel s down a series
of tubes (esophagus, stomach, intestines), and accessory organs (liver, gall
bladder, spleen) secrete compounds into the digestive tubes to aid in
digestion . The oral cavity and esophagus are covered in chapter lO.
I STOMACH
Figure 1. Low magn ification image
of the stomach . The lumen of the
stomach is lined by a muco sa which
is comprised of an epithelium, lamina
propria , and muscularis mucosa. A
muscul aris extema is one of the most
outer layers of the stomach.
Figure 2. Major layers of the

stomach. The mucosa is
compri sed of the surface
epithelium, underlying lamina
propri a, and smooth muscle
muscula ris mucosa. Deep to the
musculari s muco sa is the
submucosa. Both the lamina .
muscularis
propria and submucosa are mucosa >
comprised prima rily of loose , '. ' .
connective tissue . Deep to the
submuco sa is the musculari s . ... 4 ~ ,
. submucosa
externa, which is comprised of
an inner circul ar and outer
longitudinally-oriented layer of
smooth muscle.

Color Atlas of Xenopu s laevis Histology Gastrointestinal System
lumen surface
epithel ium
cosa
Figure 3. Mucou s membrane of the stomach. The surface layer of the mucosa is
composed of simple columnar epithelium. Invaginations of the surface epithelium
form gastric pits, which also lines with surface epithel ium. Branching off of the
gastric pits are gastric glands that aid in digestion . The underl ying loose connec tive
tissue of the lamina propri a contains many capill aries that transport absorbed
nutrients to into the circulation. The deepest layer of the mucosa is the musculari s
mucosa, which is a layer of smooth muscle cells.
32
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Gastrointestinal System
Figure 4. Epithelium and glands of the

stomach. A. The surface epithelia are
surface mucous cells and secrete mucus
to protect the mucosa of the stomach .
They invaginate into the lamina propria
to form gastric pits. At the junction of
the pits and glands are mucous neck
cells (located in the neck of the glands) .
B. Branching from the gastric pits where
the mucous neck cells are located, are
the gastric glands, which extend deep
into the lamina propria. C. The gastric
glands in the fundic stomach are
comprised primarily of parietal cells,
which secrete hydrochloric acid to lower
the pH of the lumen of the stomach.
Figure 5. Muscularis extema of

the stomach . Deep to the sub-
mucosa are the inner circular and
outer longitudindal layers of
smooth muscle of the muscularis
extema. Between the two layers
of muscle is the myenteric plexus
comprised of autonomic nerve
inner
ganglia, which innervates the
circular muscularis extema to generate
. .
peristaltic movements.
\
.. , submucosa \
33
cardiac
fundic
a
I • •'
Figure 6. The three major regions of the stomach. A.

Cardiac stomach . The gastric pits and the cardiac
glands are somewhat similar in length, with the glands
being somewhat longer. B. Fundic stomach . The fundic
glands are considerably longer that the gastric pits. C.
Pyloric stomach . The gastric pits are much longer than
the small pyloric glands.
34
II SMALL INTESTINE
Figure 7. The duodenum of the small intestine. The first region of the
small intestine is the duodenum . It has a large muscularis extcma. The
mucosa evaginates into the lumen as large villi, which serve to increase the
absorptive surface area.
Figure 8. The muco sa of

the duodenum. The villi
that extend into the lumen
are lined by surface epithe-
lium and have a central
lacteal that transports
absorbed lipids to the
circulation. A lamina pro-
pria underlies the epith-
elium, and is in direct
contact with the muscularis
extema .
35
Figure 9. A villus of the duodenum . The surface epithelium of the duodenum is

composed of a simple column ar epithelium compo sed mainly of cells called
enterocytes. Mucus-secreting goblet cells are also in the epithelial layer. A large
central lacteal is in the lamina propria, which is a lymph atic duct that transports
lipids to the circu lation.
Figure 10. The surface epithelium of the small intestine. The cells of the simple
columnar epithelia of the duodenum are called entero cytes. They have microvilli on
the apical surface, which serve to increase the absorptive surface area. Mucu s-
containing goblet cells are also within the epithelium.
36
Figure II. The muscularis
extern a of the small intestine.
The muscularis externa of the
duodenum is composed of an
inner circular and outer
longitudinal layer of smooth
muscle. Between the two
layers of smooth muscle is the
myenteric (or Auerbach's)
plexus, which contains the
postganglionic parasympathe-
tic neurons that innervate the
smooth muscle of the
muscularis externa. Covering
the outer surface of the
inn muscularis externa is a serosa
circular composed of simple squamous
aver epithelium and some under-
11 lying connective tissue .
III COLON
colon
Figure 12. Low magnification

image of the colon . A mucosa,
comprised of a surface epithelium
and lamina propria line the lumen,
lumen and a thin muscularis externa forms
the outermost layer.
museu ari
colon
Figure 13. The layers of

the colon . The surface
epithelium lines the lumen,
and has an underlying
lamina propria of loose
connective tissue. Deep to
the lamina propria is a thin
muscularis externa.
37
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Gastroin testinal System
Figure 14. The cells of the colon. The surface epithelium is a simple columnar
epithelium with enterocytes and goblet cells. Often overlying the apical surface
of the epithelium is ingested debris as seen in this figure. The lamina propria
contains many cells types, including fibroblasts and melanocytes. Clusters of
diffuse lymph atic tissue, composed mostly of leukocytes and plasma cells, are
often prese nt in the lamina propria . The muscularis externa is compose d of an
inner circular and outer longitudinal layer of smoot h muscle . A serosa lines the
outer surface of the colon.
38
I
Figur e 15. The epithelium of the colon. The simple columnar epithelium of the
IL colonPithelium
contains mucus-secreting goblet cells. Goblet cells reach the apical surface of
and release their contents by mcro:rine secretion (exo<:ytosis).
IV LIVER
Figure 16. Low magnification image of

the liver. The liver is encapsulated by a
thick dense connective tissue capsule.
Within the parench yma of the organ are
many sinusoids.
Figure 17. The organi-

zation of the liver. The
major cell type of the liver
are hepatocytes, which are
joined together is cords, and
arc separated by numerou s •
sinusoids. Portal triads are
found throughou t the liver,
and each are composed of
an artery, vein and bile duct.
39
Figure 18. High magnification image of liver cells. The hepatocytes are arranged
into cords separated by venous sinusoids. Within the sinusoids are erythrocytes and
leukocytes. Also within the sinusoids are Kupffer cells, which are phagocytic, and
participate in the removal of senile erythrocyte s. The cytoplasm of the hepatocytes
has many vacuoles , which are made more visible by the extraction of glycogen
during paraffin processing. Canaliculi are small channels between hepatocytes, which
transport bile made by the hepatocytes to the bile ducts of the portal triads.
Figure 19. Portal triads of the

liver. Portal triads are com-
posed of a I) portal vein,
which brings venous blood
from the gut to the liver for
detoxification of poisonous
compounds, 2) hepatic artery,
which transports arterial blood
to the hepatocytes, and 3) bile
duct, which transports bile
from the hepatocyte canaliculi
to the common hepatic duct
and then to the gall bladder.
40
Color Atlas ofXenopus laevis Histology Gastrointestinal System
Figure 20. Sinusoids of the liver. The branches of the portal vein that are present in the
portal triads send out sinusoidal branches between the cords of hepatocytes. These
sinusoids deliver blood directly from the gut to the hepatocytes for detoxification. Note
the presence of diffuse lymphatic tissue near the portal triad.
Figure 21. Route of bile flow in the liver. Bile that is produced in the hepatocytes is
secreted into canaliculi, which are small channels between hepatocytes. Bile from the
canaliculi drains into small ducts called canals of Hering, which transport the bile to the
bile duct in the portal triad.
41
Figure 22. Canals of Hering. Bile is secreted from hepatocytes into the canaliculi, which
merge to form the canals of Hering. The canals of Hering transport bile to the bile duct in
the portal triad. Bile is then transported via the common hepatic duct to the gall bladder.
V GALLBLADDER

image of the gall bladder. The
lumen is lined by a simple
columnar epithelium with an
underlying lamina propria.
Figure 24. Epithelium of the gall bladder. The lumen of the gall
bladder is lined by a simple columnar epithelium. Deep to the
epithelium is a loose connective tissue lamina propria.
42
Figure 25. Oblique orientation of the epithelium of the gall bladder. The most apical
region of the simple columnar epithelium shows a hexagonal appearance. Further
down in the cell is the nucleus, followed by the basa l portion of the cell.
Figure 26. Muscularis of the gall bladder. Deep to the lamina propria
of the gall bladder is a thin layer of smooth muscle that comprises the
muscularis. External to the muscularis is the adventitia.
VI PANCREAS
Figure 27. Low magnification image

of the pancreas . The majority of the
pancreas is comprised of exocrine
pancreatic acinar cells that expe l their
contents through a series of ducts.
acinar
cells
43
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histolog y Gastrointestinal System
Figure 28. Capsule of the pancreas. The pancreas is

encapsulated by a layer of dense connective tissue.
Figure 29. Exocrine portion of the pancreas. The pancreatic acinar cells
form pancreatic acini, which are clusters of acinar cells. Their apical
surfaces are in contact with a small lumen that is continuous with
intercalated ducts that drain into larger intralobula r ducts. The acinar
cells secrete digestive enzyme into the lumen, which are eventually
secreted into the duodenum .
44
Color Atlas of Xenopu s laevis Histology Gastrointestinal System
Figure 30. Cytoarchitecture of the pancreas. Intercalated ducts arise directly from the
pacreatic acini , which drain into the larger intralobul ar ducts. Th e intercalated ducts
secrete bicarbonate and water into the lumen, which help s to neutralize the low pH in
the chyme that enters the duodenum from the stomach. The horm one-secreting
endocri ne ce lls of the pancreas are arranged in clusters of vary ing sizes.
Figure 31. Endocrine ce lls of the pancreas. Th e endocr ine ce lls are dispersed
throughout the pancreas in irregular clusters. Th ey secre te insulin , glucago n,
and other hormones that help to regulate glucos e metabolism.
45
Figure 32. Ducts of the pancreas. A. Intralobular ducts arc lined with simple cuboidal
epithelium and have a relatively large lumen . They transport secretions from the intercalated
ducts to the interlobular ducts . B. Centroacinar cells line the lumen of the pancreatic acini and
are continuous with intercalated ducts . Intercalated ducts are lined with a low cuboidal
epithelium and have a very small lumen. They transport secretions from the pancreatic acinar
cells to the intralobular ducts and also secrete bicarbonate and water. C. Interlobular ducts are
located in connective tissue septa between lobules and receive secretions from the
intralobular ducts . They are lined with a simple or stratified cuboidal epithelium.
46
Chapter 5
Respiratory System
The upper respiratory syste m warms, moistens, and filter s the inhaled
air and provides a passageway to the lung s where oxygen is delivered to
erythrocytes in the circul ation, and carbon dioxide is passed from the
erythrocytes into the air chambers to be exhaled from the body.
I NASAL CAVITY
external
nares
I Figure 1. Low magnification

of sagittal section of Xenopus
head. The respiratory tract
begins at the external nares.
Figure 2. Chambers of the

externa l nares. The externa l
nares constricts to specifically
admit air in the one chamber ( I)
that leads to the nasal cavity airway
when the nares are above the
water level. Below the water
level, the nares constricts to
adm it water into a secon d
chamber (2) lined with olfactory
epithelium, thus enabling the
frog to detect water-borne
odorant s.

Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Respiratory System
Figure 3. Sagittal section of the vomeronasal organ . The nasal cavity

delivers fluid to the vomeronasal organ, which is sensitive to non-volatile
substance such as pheromones.

of a sagittal section of a frog
head showing the location of
the vomeronasal organ . The
vomeronasal organ is located
just above the oral cavity .
48
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Resp iratory System
Figure 5. High magnificat ion of the vomeronasal organ . The sensory epithelium
is continuous with the respiratory epithelium of the nasal cavity.
Figure 6. Respiratory epithelium of the nasal cavity. A. Some regions of

the nasal cavity are lined with respiratory epithelium with many goblet
cells. B. Respirato ry epithelium lining most of the nasal cavity is highly
ciliated and has fewer goblet cells.
49
Figure 7. Respiratory and

olfacto ry epithelium of the nasal
cavity . The respiratory epithelium
of the nasal cavity is continuous
with the sensory olfactory epith-
elium. Note that the thickness of
the olfactory epithelium is much
greater than that of the respiratory
epithelium .
_ cilia ""'-
olfactory epithelium
Figure 8. Olfacto ry epithelium. A. The olfactory epithelium is a pseudostratified

columnar epithel ium with sensory cilia on the apical surface. Note the olfactory nerve
bundle s in the underlying connective tissue. B. In some areas of the nasal cavity, the
apical surface of the olfactory epithelium is covered with a layer of mucus, which entraps
air-borne odorants. The mucus is produced by Bowman' s glands in the underlying
connective tissues, which send ducts to the epithelial surface.
50
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histolo gy Respiratory System
II TRACHEA
elastic
cartilage
larynx
Figure 9. Epiglottis. Between the pharynx and trachea is the epiglottis, which
prevents ingested materials from entering the airway of the trachea. Skeletal and
smooth muscle surround a core of elastic cartilage . Closure of the epig lottis forces
ingested materials into the esophagu s, which is posterior to the trachea.
trachea ~ respiratory epithelium
Figure 10. Tissues of the trachea. The luminal surface of the trachea is lined with
ciliated respiratory epithelium with goblet cells. Deep to the epithelium is a ring of
hyaline cartilage , which provides struct ural support to prevent colla pse of the airway .
51
III LUNGS
Figure 11. Low magnification image 01

a lung. Thc trachea gives ri c to paired
bron hi. which enter thc lungs and give
rise to many bronchiole.. The . c in tum
give rise to the alveolar sacs. where gas
exchange with the blood occurs .
lung
Figure 12. Bron hus of a

lung . Bronchi arc uippor-
ted with plates or rings of
cartilage. The bronchi
give rio c 10 bronchioles.
which arc not associated
with cartilagcnous plates .
Bronchiole. have a layer
of smooth underlying the
epithelial muco. a.
visceral pleura lung
Figure 13. Low magnification image of lung tissues . A visceral pleura forms
the outer surface of the lung. Note the invaginations of the lung surface (*).
Bronchi are identified by the presence of the basophilic hyaline cartilage.
Bronchioles are identified by the presence of smooth muscle and lack of alveoli .
52
Figure 14. Bronchus of

the lung. Bronchi are
identified by the presence
of hyaline cartilage and
smooth muscle below the
epithelial layer. Note the
orientation of the smooth
muscle cells (similar to
the orientation of smooth
muscle cells that occurs
in arteries) in this oblique
section.
visceral pleura
Figure 15. High magni-

fication of the visceral alveoli
pleura. The outer surface
is lined with a layer of
simple squamous epithe-
lium. The inner surface is
often lined with alveolar
capillaries where gas
exchange occurs .
Figure 16. Alveolar sacs

of the lung. The bronch-
ioles, which are not lined
with alveolar capillaries,
give rise to alveolar sacs.
Alveolar sacs are blind-
ended pouches lined with
alveolar capillaries and
pneumocytes. This is the
location where gas ex-
change occurs with the
erythrocytes.
53
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histo logy Resp iratory System
Figure 17. Airwa ys of the lung. Depending on the level of branching, the bronchu s is
lined with column ar, cubo idal, or simple squamous epith elium, with columnar epithelium
at the highest levels of branching, and simple squamous at the lowest level (just before
giving rise to bronchioles). Bronch ioles are lined with a layer of simple squamous
epithelium. Smooth muscle underlies the epithelium in bronch i and bronch ioles.
Figure 18. Alveolar sacs of the lung. The bronch ioles give rise to alveolar sacs, which
contain the alveolar capillaries and pneumocytes. Erythrocytes (red blood cells) are
present in the lumen of some of the capillaries in this specimen. Note that an alveolar
duct (passageway to the immediate right of the two alveolar sacs indicated) gives rise to
two alveolar sacs in the section.
54
pneumocytes _ _.......
Figure 19. Alveolar sacs of the lung. The cell somas of the pneumocytes are wedged
between the cell membranes of the capillaries . Note the alveolar sac that contains the
capillaries and pneumocytes indicated, and the alveolar duct from which it arises.
viscera l
pleura
Figure 20. Pneumocytes and capillaries of the lung. The pneumocyte cell bodies are
located between adjacent alveolar capillaries. Together, the pneumocytes and capillary
endothelial cells comprise the air-blood barrier.
55
lung endothelial
cell nucleus
connective
tissue
erythrocytes
Figure 21. Pneumocytes and capillaries of the lung. The pneumocyte cell bodies are
located between adjacent alveolar capillaries, and their thin cytoplasmic sheets overly
the capillaries to provide a barrier between the airway and the capillary walls. To
reach the erythrocytes, oxyge n must pass through the membrane and cytoplasm of
the pneumocytes and endothelial cells of the capillaries. Underlying the capillary
endothelial cells is their basement membran e and underlying connective tissue. Many
pigmented cells are present in the connective tissue of the lung.
56
Chapter 6
Urinary System
The urinary system is comprised of the kidneys, ureter, urinary bladder,

and urethra. Blood is filtered in the kidneys , and the waste products and
water pass from the kidneys into the lumen of the ureter. The ureter empties
into the urinary bladder which temporarily stores the urine until it is
expelled through the urethra .
I KIDNEY
kidney medulla
cortex
Figure 1. Low magnification image of the Xenopus kidney. The kidney

has an elongate shape, and a distinct medulla and cortex are present.
Large collecting ducts are located toward the end of the organ.
Figure 2. Organization of the kidney. The convoluted tubules are located

in the cortex, and the more eosinophili c medulla contains collecting tubules
that drain into progressively larger tubules to exit the kidney.

Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Urinary System
Figure 3. Distribution of structures in the cortex and medulla . The renal

corpuscles and convolut ed tubules are located in the cortex, and the
medulla contain s mostly the loop of Henle and collectin g tubules.
capsu lar cells . / ' c ilia
Figure 4. Structure of the renal capsule . There are two major

components of the renal capsule; a layer of simple cuboidal
epithelium, and an underlying layer of dense connect ive tissue.
Note the presence of cilia on the apical surface of the epithelium.
58
Figure 5. Diffuse lymphatic tissue in the kidney . Clusters of lymphocytes

occur throughout the kidney, often associated with collecting tubules.
Lymphatic tissue is also located just under the renal capsule . Note the lack
of cilia on the cuboidal capsular cells that overly the lymphatic tissue .
Figure 6. Major tubular structures of the cortex . Underlying the renal capsule are the
major tubular structures of the cortex. The proximal convoluted tubules are
eosinophilic cuboidal epithelium and are often found near the renal corpuscles. They
have microvilli on their apical surface. Also near the renal corpuscles are the distal
convoluted tubules which are cuboidal epithelium and have a basophilic appearance.
These cells are often larger than the proximal tubule cells. The thick limb of the loop
of Henle is continuous with the proximal tubules and has a similar eosinophilic
staining quality . The cuboidal cells are larger and also have microvilli on their apical
surface. Collecting tubules are quite basophilic, and are composed of two cells types;
cuboidal epithelium and mucus-containing flask cells .
59
renal capsule kidney

- ' - cilia cortex
Figure 7. Renal corpuscles and other cortical structures. Most renal

corpuscles are located very near the renal capsule. At the center of
the renal corpuscle is the capillary-filled glomerulus.
Figure 8. High magnifi cation of the renal corpuscle. The glomerulus is compo sed primar ily
of capillaries and the podocytes that comprise the visceral layer of Bowman 's capsule.
Bowman 's capsule consists of the parietal and visceral layers and the urinary space. The
parietal layer is composed of simple squamous epithelium. Ultrafiltrate passes through the
fenestrated capillaries and between the podocyte cell processes to reach the urinary space
from which it then passes into the urinary pole via the proximal convoluted tubule.
60
Color Atla s of Xenopu s laevis Histology Urinary System
Figure 9. High magnification of a

renal corpuscle. The affere nt and
efferent arterioles enter and leave the
glomerulus at the vascular pole. Some
smooth muscle cells of the afferent
arteriole are specialized cells called
juxtaglomerular cells (JG cells) and
secrete renin in response to signals
from the nearby macula densa of the
distal convoluted tubule.
Figure 10. High magnification of renal cortex. In addition to proximal and distal
convoluted tubules and renal corpuscles, collecting tubules are also located in the
renal cortex (and in the medulla). The cells comprising the collecting tubules are
cuboidal epithelial cells and mucus-secreting cells called flask cells.
61
Figure 11. (LEFT) Collecting

tubules in the renal medulla. A and
B. A collecting tubule is viewed in
both longitudinal and cross sectional
orientations . Cuboidal epithelial cells
line the lumen of the tubules, and the
flask cells overlie the cuboidal cells
and secrete mucus into the lumen via
small channels between the cuboidal
cells.
Figure 12. (BELOW) Collecting

tubules in the renal medulla. Note that
several distal convoluted tubules
drain into a single larger collecting
tubule (longitudinal orientation) .
62
Figure 13. Renal medulla.

The major structures in the
renal medulla are the thick
and thin limbs of the loop
of Henle and the vasa recta.
The cells of the thick limb
of the loop of Henle are
large, pick-staining cuboi-
dal epithelial cells. The
vasa recta are composed of
a layer of endothelium and
may have erythro cytes in
the lumen.
Figure 14. Loop of Henle in the renal medulla. A. Longitud inal section of the loop of
Henle show ing the transition (*) from the cuboidal cells of the thick limb to the squamous
cells of the thin limb. B. Thin limb of the loop of Henle is show n in several orientations.
63
Figure 15. Renal corpuscles in the

renal cortex. A. Ultrafiltrate in
urinary space enters the proximal
convoluted tubule at the urinary
pole of the renal corpuscle. B. At
the urinary pole of the renal
corpuscle, the proximal convoluted
tubule receives the ultrafiltrate.
Note the presence of microvilli on
the proximal tubule cells. C.
Opposite from the urinary pole of
the renal corpuscle is the vascular
pole. The afferent and efferent
arterioles enter and leave the
glomerulus at the vascular pole.
Figure 16. (BELOW) Papillary

ducts drain into the lumen of the
minor calyx. The large papillary
ducts receive urine from the
collecting tubules, and then drain
into the lumen of the calyces.
The epithelium lining the kidney
cortex is comprised of ciliated
simple cuboidal epithelium,
whereas the calyx is lined with
simple squamous epithelium.
minor
calyx
64
II URETER
Figure 17. The proximal portion of the ureter. The ureter is a tubular structure that
transports urine from the kidney pelvis to the urinary bladder. The lumen is lined
with a pseudostratified columnar epithelium . A fibromuscular stroma, comprised of
smooth muscle cells and dense connective tissue, surrounds the epithelium .
Figure 18. The distal portion of the ureter. The distal ureter is lined with a
ciliated simple columnar epithelium , which exhibits numerous infoldings . A
fibromuscular stroma, comprised of smooth muscle cells and dense connective
tissue, comprises most of the outer region of the ureter.
65
Figure 19. High magnification image of the ureter. The ureter is lined with
a ciliated simple columnar epithelium . A thin layer of loose connective
tissue surrounds the epithelium.
III URINARY BLADDER
Figure 20. Low magnification image of the urinary bladder . The lumen of the
bladder is lined with transitional epithelium . Underlying the epithelium is a loose
connective tissue called the lamina propria. The next layer is a layer of smooth
muscle cells called the muscularis. The outer layer is either an adventitia or serosa .
66
Color Atlas of Xen opus laevis Histology Urinary System
lumen of urinary bladder
lamina propria
Figure 21. Epithelium and lamina propri a of the urinary bladder. The layer of transitional
epithelium overlie s the lamina propria, which is compo sed of loose connective tissue.
Note the presence of many blood vesse ls j ust below the epithelium basement membrane.
Figure 22. High magnification image of urinary bladder epithelium. The epithelium
lining the lumen of the urinary bladder is transitional epithelium. Note the presence
of two distinct cell types of the epithelium. The epithel ial cells comp rise most of the
mucous lining and are stratified. Some epithelial cells appear cuboidal in shape,
while other appear to be squamous. Interspersed among the epithelial cells are
mucus-containing cells that have the same appearance as the flask cells of the
collecting tubules of the kidney (figures 9- 12, this chapter).
67
non-distended bladder epithelium
distended bladder epithelium

~
lamina pro ia
Figure 23. Transitional morphology of the urinary bladder epithelium. A. In the

relaxed or non-distended state, when the bladder is relatively empty, the transitional
epithelium appears relatively thick, with most of the cells having a cuboidal or dome-
shaped morphology. B. In the stretched or distended state, when the bladder is
relatively full of urine, the transitional epithelium is relatively thin, and the cells assume
a more squamous morphol ogy.
68
Chapter 7
Endocrine Organs
The organs of the endocrine system produce hormones that are released
into the circulation and reach distant target tissues to exert their effects. The
pituitary gland controls or influences the release of many hormones made by
variou s endocrine organs.
I PITUITARY GLAND
Figure 1. Low magnification of a

sagittal section of a frog head,
containing the pituitary gland. The
pituitary gland (hypophysis) is
attached to the floor of the
diencephalon of the brain by an
infundibular stalk. It receives
hormonal signals from nuclei of the
hypothalamu s, which control the
secretion of hormones from the
pituitary gland.
Figure 2. Pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is comprised of the adenophyophysis,

which contains the pars distalis and pars intermedia, and the neurohypophysis, which
contains the pars nervosa and median eminence. The pituitary gland is attached to the
hypothalamu s by the infundibular stalk.

Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Endocrine Organs
Figure 3. Pars distalis of adenohypophysis. The acidophil s, which produce growth hormone
and prolactin, are large eosinophilic cells. Basophils produce FSH, LH, TSF, and ACTH, and
are basophilic. The chromophobes are thought to be transiently degranulated chromophils.
Figure 4. Three major divisions of the hypophysis. The pars intenn edia appears as a sliver
of cells between the pars distalis and pars nervosa . The median eminence is the region distal
to the pars nervosa, which contains the primary capillary plexus where releasing hormones
are secreted into the circulation to be transported to the adenohypophysis.
70
Figure 5. Pars nervosa and intennedia. Nuclei in the pars nervosa belong to pituicytes,
which are astrocyte-like glial cells. Sinusoids in the pars nervosa receive hormonal
secretions that are stored in the axonal swellings of the hypothalamic neurons. Cells
similar to the cells of the adenohypophysis are present in the pars intenn edia.
infund ibular
recess
Figure 6. Median eminence. Axons of secretory neurons travel through the

infundibulum to terminate at the primary capillary plexus in the median eminence where
they release releasing hormones into the circulation. The releasing hormones travel
through the hypophyseal portal system to the secondary plexus to stimulate release of
hormones from the adenohypophysis. Axons of other neurons continue to the pars
nervosa where hormones are released into the sinusoids.
71
infundibular
recess
median
eminence
Figure 7. Median eminence . Axons of secretory neurons terminate at the

capillaries of the primary plexus in the median eminence . Axons of other
secretory neurons continue to the pars nervosa where hormones are stored in
Herring bodies until released into the sinusoids .
infundibular recess
Figure 8. Pars tuberalis . The pars tuberalis is part of the adenohyphophysis

and is continuous with the pars distalis. It is closely associated with the
infundibulum, and is comprised of cells similar to those in the pars distalis.
72
II PINEAL GLAND
pineal gland
(epiphysis)
third
.ventricle
Figure 9. Low magnification image of the roof of the diencephalon containing the
pineal gland . The pineal gland (epiphysis) is attached to the brain in the region of the
left and right habenular nuclei.
third ventricle
Figure 10. High magnification of the pineal gland . Ependymal cells line the third
ventricle . The principal cells of the pineal gland are pinealocytes (also called
epiphyseal epithelium), which produce the hormone melatonin . In Xenopus, the
pinealocytes have an appearance similar to retinal photoreceptors with outer
segments that protrude into the lumens of the gland . Interstitial cells are glial-like
cells and are identified by their elongate or irregular-shaped nuclei.
73
Color Atlas of X enopus laevis Histology Endocrine Organs
III THYROID GLAND

of sagitta l section of Xenop us
head. The thyroid gland is a
bi-lobed organ located in the
neck region j ust ventral to the
larynx.
Figure 12. Intermedi ate magnifi cation image of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland
is compose d of spherical colloid-filled follicles that are lined by follicular cells. The
follicular cells produc e thyroid hormones by the production of thyrog lobulin, which
is stored in the extrace llular colloid. At the basal side of the follicular cells is an
extensive capillary plexus.
74
follicular
epithel ium
colloid
Figure 13. High magnificat ion image of the thyroid gland. The follicular cells that line the
follicles are cuboidal or columnar depending on their level of activity which is controlled
by the release of thyroid stimulating hormone from the pars distalis. There is an extensive
capillary network at the basal surface of the follicular cells. There are some groups of cells
in clusters between the follicles. called interfollicular cells. These cells are also referred to
as "C" cells because they secreted the hormone calcitonin into the circulation.
IV ADRENAL (INTERRENAL) GLAND
adrenal gland
(interrenal)
Figure 14. Low magnification image of the adrenal gland. The adrenal gland of Xenop us
laevis is also called the interrenal gland because of its position in the medial regions of
the kidneys where the kidneys are apposed to each other. The adrenal gland appears as
clusters of chromaffi n cells and adrenocortical cells j ust within the renal capsule.
75
Figure 1S. High magnification image of the adrenal gland. The steroid-secreting
adrenocortical cells comprise the major component of the adrenal gland and are
arranged in cords. There are many pale vacuoles in the cytoplasm of the adrenoc ortical
cells that represent the numerous cholesterol-containing lipid droplets. The
catecholamine-secreting chromaffin cells are arranged singly or in small clusters.
adrenocortical
cells
Figure 16. High magnification image of the adrenal gland. The reddish-brown
staining chromaffin cells are arranged singly or in small clusters and are often
closely associated with the light purple-staining adrenocortical cells.
76
Chapter 8
Reproductive Organs
The reproductive organs function to produce and transport germinal

cells (oocytes and sperm) to a site where fertilization can occur. The male
reproductive organs are the testes, and the female reproductive organs are
the ovaries. The oviduct serves to deliver the oocytes from the ovaries to the
external environment, where they will be fertilized by the sperm cells.
I OVARY
Figure 1. Low magnifica-

tion image of the ovary.
The ovary is comprised
primarily of many oocytes
clustered together.
Figure 2. Oocytes comprise most of the ovary. Mature

oocytes have a diameter of about 1.5 mm. A large nucleus
can be observed in most oocytes, and a layer of pigment
granules closely underlie the plasma membrane.

Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Reproductive Organs
Figure 3. Oocyte nucleus. The nuclei of oocytes have many nucleoli that tend to be located
near the nuclear envelope. A Balbiani body, which is a large mass of mitochondr ia, is
located close to the nucleus. Within the cytoplasm are many small membrane-bound
structure called yolk platelets, which provide nutrition for the developing embryo.
Figure 4. Oocyte cytoplasm and membrane. Cortical granules are located near the
plasma membrane, and a layer of pigment granules closely underlie the membrane .
Flattened follicular cells are on the extracellular side of the oocy te membrane. A delicate
theca layer overlies the follicular cells.
78
II OVIDUCT
Figure 5. Low magnifica-

tion image of a cross
section of the oviduct. The
lumen of the oviduct is
lined by many glands that
secrete into the lumen . A
fibrous stroma supports the
basal portion of the glands.
oviduct
Figure 6. Longitudinal section of the ovidu ct. The ovidu ct is surrounded by a layer
of dense connective tissue. Long glands empty their secretory product s into the
lumen as oocyte s travel along the lumen from the ovary. The glandular secretions
form the layers ofj elly coats on the oocytes as they are transported to the cloaca .
79
Color Atlas of Xenop us laevis Histology Reproductive Organs
Figure 7. High magnification images of oviduct glands. A. Longitudin al orientation of the

oviduct glands. The glandular cell nuclei are located at the basal side of the cells and secrete
their contents into the glandular lumen that is confluent with the lumen of the oviduct. The
epithelial cells lining the oviduct lumen are ciliated, and aid in the transport of oocytes from
the ovaries to the cloaca. Note the vascular supply between the glands. B. Horizontal
orientation of the oviduct glands. The glandular lumen is located centrally, and the glands
are surrounded by loose connective tissue with many capillaries. Note the dark- staining
secretory granules that contain mucin-lik e glycoproteins that are secreted to make the layers
of jelly coats on the oocytes as they are transported throu gh the lumen.
80
III TESTES

image of the testes. The testes
are surrounded by a dense
connective tissue capsule. The
mediastinum receives sperma-
tids that are produced in
seminiferous tubules, which
comp rise most of the testes .
Figure 9. Seminiferous tubules of the testes. The seminiferous tubules are

surrounded by loose connective tissue and this area is called the intertubular space.
In this speciment the space between each seminiferous tubule and the connective
tissue of the intertubular space is an artifact of the paraffin embedding process .
The seminiferous tubules are confluent with the straight tubules (also called tubuli
recti) through which the spermatids travel to the rete testes of the mediasti num and
from there will exit the testes.
81
Color Atlas ofXenopus laevis Histology Reproductive Organs
... > ~ > -- .,-.

f- ·
;
,
. ...- :
Figure 10. Tunica albuginea . A layer of dense connective tissue, called

the tunica albuginea, encapsules the testes. Directly beneath the tunica
albuginea are the seminiferous tubules .
seminferous tubule
Figure 11. Seminiferous tubules of the testes. Spermatocytes are arranged in clusters
near the basement membrane . Sertoli cells are large, eosinophilic cells and have many
late spermatids attached to their apical surface . After some maturation of the
spermatids, they detach from the Sertoli cells, and pass through the seminiferous
tubules into the straight tubules.
82
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histolog y Reproductive Organs
Figure 12. Seminiferous

tubules and straight tubules.
The seminiferous tubu les
are in conti nuity with the
straight tubules. The sraight
tubules receive the sperma-
tids from the seminiferous
tubules and transport them
to the mediastinum . Note
the branching of the straight
tubules as they join to form
a larger tubule . Leydig cells
are in the interstitial con-
nective tissue.
Figure 13. Straight tubules. Straight tubules (tubuli recti) are located within the
interstitial connective tissue. A. Straight tubules in cross-section. The tubules are
lined by a cuboidal epithelium and have a small lumen. B. Tangential section of a
straight tubule at a branching point. Note the presence of a spermatid in the lumen.
83
Figure 14. Leydig cells. The interstitial cells of Leydig are located the
interstitial space between the seminiferous tubules. Leydig cells
produce male androgens such as testosterone . They can be identified
by their irregularly shaped nuclei and vacuolated cytoplasm . The
vacuoles are the result of extraction of lipid droplets in the cytoplasm .
84
Chapter 9
Integument
The integumentary system consists of the skin (integument) and its

associated structures. The skin is composed of two major portions; the
epidermis and the dermis. In Xenopus , the epidermis is a keratinized
stratified squamous epithelium. The dermis is composed of loose and dense
connective tissue. Associated with the skin are exocrine glands which
secrete a variety of substances through ducts to the body surface, and lateral
line organs, which are sensitive to fluid movement.
I EPIDERMIS
Figure 1. Low magnification image of Xenopus skin. The skin

(integument) is composed of the epidermis and dermis. Within the dermis
are many glands that secrete material to the surface.
Figure 2. The integument of Xenopus laevis. Lateral line organs protrude from the
epithelium to the surface. Mucous glands and serous glands secretes materials through
excretory ducts to the surface. The dermis is composed of dense connective tissue.

Color Atlas ofXenopus laevis Histology Integumentary System
I
~ mucous
cells
Figure 3. The epidermis. The epithelium of the epidermis is a keratinized stratified

squamous epithelium, and is composed of four distinct layers; the stratum corneum, stratum
granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum basale. A thin stratum lucidum also appears
between the corneum and granulosum. Melanocytes are present throughout the epithelium.
II DERMIS
Figure 4. The dennis . Mucous and serous glands are prominent in the dennis, and expel
their secretory contents to the surface of the epidermis through excretory ducts. The dense
connective tissue (CT) of the dennis is dense irregular CT, which is close to the epidermis,
and the CT of the more distal region of the dennis is composed of dense regular CT.
86
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Integum entary System
Figure S. The dermis. Directly underlying the epidermis is the loose connective tissue
(CT) of the dermis, which contains many capillaries. Deep to the loose CT is the dense
irregular CT of the derm is, and deep to that is the dense regular CT of the dermis.
III GLANDS
Figure 6. Exocrine glands of the skin. A. Mucous glands are prominent in the integument
and secreted mucus through an excretory duct composed of cuboidal epithelium. The
mucous cells have a highly vacuolated cytoplasm and a round nucleus. B. The protein-
secreting glands of the skin (also called granular cells) secrete their proteinaceous
products through an excretory duct composed of cuboidal epithelium. Unlike the mucous
gland cells, these granular cells constitute a syncytium (fusion of several cells).
87
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Integumentary System
IV LATERAL LINE ORGAN
lateral line organ
Figure 7. Lateral line organs of the skin. The lateral line organs are small, elongated
structures on the head and trunk of Xenopus . Hair cells on the surface are called neuromasts
an respond to a flow of water over the surface. Each neuromast consists of a group of cells
embedded in the epidermis. The mantle cells lie peripherally and surround the centrally
positioned sensory and supporting sustentacular cells. The sustentacular cells extend from the
basement membrane to the outer surface. The sensory hair cells extend to the free surface,
but to not reach the basement membrane. The sensory hairs of the hair cells consist of one
kinocilium and 20-40 stereocilia which are enclosed by a gelatinous cupula. The basal cells
are attached to the basement membrane but do not reach the free surface.
Figure 8. Innervation of lateral line

organs. The lateral line organs are
embedded in the epidermis, and are
innervated by sensory nerve fibers
that pass through the dermis. The
lateral line sensory system functions
to detect and localize movements of
nearby obstacles, prey, predators, and
con-specifics in the environment.
88
Chapter 10
Cranial Structures
Cranial structures illustrated in this chapter are: oral cavity including the
oral mucosa, taste buds, salivary glands and teeth ; epiglottis; esophagus ;
nasal cavity; brain; inner ear; and eye and surrounding supporting structure s
including Harderian glands. The cranium is composed of all four tissue
types and most of the main neural structures contain or receive projections
from primary sensory neurons. The skin of the cranium is discussed in
Chapter 9. Primary sensory cells are located in taste buds, retina, olfactory
and vomeronasal chemorec eptive epithelium, auditory and vestibular
labyrinth in the inner car, and sensory ganglia of the cranium such as the
somatosensory trigeminal ganglion.
I OVERVIEW OF CRANIAL STRUCTURES
Figure 1. Low magnifi cation image of the Xenopus cranium in the

parasagittal plane. The rostral side of the head is to the right.

Color Atlas of Xenopu s laevis Histology Cranial Structures
II ORAL CAVITY
There is a unique stratified epithelium on the ventral lip region. The oral
cavity is lined with stratified epithelium. Tooth structures are present
underlying the epithelium on the inner rostral and lateral margins of the
maxillary lip. Xenopus frogs do not have tongues. Taste buds are distributed
over the palate and floor of the oral cavity.
stratified epithelium
~ with unique rounded
surface cells
skin
Figure 2. Low magnification image of stratified epithelium of the mandibular lip. The
skin transitions into a unique stratified epithelium with rounded cells on the surface. In the
oral cavity the epithelium becomes a stratified sqaumous or cuboidal epithelium.
......1---- rounded surface cells
Figure 3. High magnification of transitional area of lip. This area is a stratified

epithelium with typical basal and prickle cells, but there is a unique class of rounded
surface cells that possess numerous extensions or blebs of membrane protruding from
their surface.
90
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Cranial Structures
Figure 4. (ABOVE) High magnification image of mucosal lining of the oral cavity.
A. Nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium as seen on the palate. B. Stratified
cuboidal epithelium as seen on the floor of the mouth. Both epithelia contain a layer
of basal cells that give rise to new epithelial cells, elongated mucous cells that project
to the surface and typical prickle cell keratinocytes . The connective tissue underlying
the epithelium is called the lamina propria. This layer contains mostly fibroblasts and
collagen fibers. Inset in B shows mucus secreted from a mucous cell.
Figure 5. (LEFT) High

magnification image of a
taste bud. Taste buds are
located on the palate and
floor of the oral cavity.
They consist of a round
collection of basal, sensory
and supporting cells. The
receptive end of the sensory
cells (basophilically stained
dark purple) projects to the
surface of the epithelium.
Taste molecules stimulate
the cells at their sensory
ending (asterisks) .
91
oral cavity
Figure 6. Low magnification image of salivary gland . A salivary

gland is located on the lateral palate (roof of mouth) . It is composed of
mucous acini and a duct leading to the oral cavity .
oral
cavity
92
small vesicle
mucous cells
Figure 8. (ABOVE) High magnification image of salivary gland acinus. The acini
contain mucous cells with either large or small vesicles in the apical portion of the
cell. The nuclei are located basally. Nuclei close to the lumen of the acinus belong to
ciliated cells. Myoepithelial cells surround the acinus and appear as cells with very
elongated nuclei and cytoplasmic processes that extend long distances around the
acinus. These latter cells contract, aiding in the expulsion of mucus from the acinus.
Figure 7. (LEFT) Salivary gland and duct. The salivary

gland acini and duct contain two types of mucou s cells,
one of which contains small vesicles and one of which
contains large vesicles. In addition, there are ciliated cells
interspersed among the mucous cells.
93
yoepithelial eel s
Figure 9. High magnification image of salivary gland cell types. Large vesicle cells
are large wide cells whereas small vesicle cells are smaller and more narrow. Ciliated
cells are very narrow and are squeezed between the mucous cells except for their
apical end that fans out to provide a large apical surface with cilia. Their nuclei
(asterisks) are wedged between the apical ends of the mucous cells. Myoepithelial
cell nuclei are flattened against the base of the acinus.
94
ora l cavity
t~~~~~~~IIIIi~m:a:x:iI ary skin

Figure 10. Structure and location of teeth. Teeth do not contain an outer layer of
enamel. They are composed of dentin and are situated in the connective tissue
underlying the oral epithelium . The rostral end of the tooth appears to be
continuous with bone rather than being suspended in bone by a ligament.
I •
/ ,
connec
r sue
Figure 11. Magnified view of the tip or incisal edge of the tooth.
The basal layer of oral mucosal epithelial cells surrounds the tooth.
95
Figure 12. Magnified view of the tooth showi ng the odontoblast cells
within the pulp cavity. Odonto blasts synthesize denti n, which is harder
than bone. Within the dentin are tubules that contain the long processes of
the odontoblasts. These tubules appear as striations through the dentin and
are perpendicular to the surface of the dentin. Inset shows the orientation
of the dentin al tubule s through which the odont oblastic processes proj ect.
Figure 13. High magn ification

image of odontoblasts showing
the proje ction of odontoblastic
proces ses into the dentinal tub-
ules with in the layer of dentin .
96
III EPIGLOTTIS
Figure 14. The epiglottis is a movable tissue that covers the larynx during
swallowing preventing food from gaining access to the trachea . It is open
(displaced in a rostral direction) during respiration .
Figure 15. The epiglottis divides

the regions of the pharynx and
larynx. There is stratified columnar
epithelium just rostral to the
epiglottis (Box I and Figure 16
next page) and ciliated pseudostrat-
ified epithelium on the epiglottis
(Box 2 and Figure 17 next page) .
97
stratified ~
columna r
ep ithelium
Figure 16. High magnificat ion image of the region just rostral to the epiglottis
(Box I in Figure 15). This region contains a stratified columnar epithelium.
Figure 17. High magnification image of the epithelium on the epiglottis (Box 2
in Figure 15). The epiglottis is covered by a ciliated pseudostratified epithelium .
98
IV ESOPHAGUS
The esophagus in Xenopus is composed of a nonkeratini zed stratified
squamous epithelium frequentl y invagin ating into the underl ying lamina
propri a. Deep to the connective .tissue are inner circular and outer
longitudinal muscularis extema layers.
esophagus
.
...
trachea _. "
Figure 18. Low magnification images of the esophagus. The esophagus is

dorsal to the trachea that is encased in cartilage.
nonkeratinized stratified squamous

epithelium
Figure 19. High magnification image of the esophagus. The

esophagus is composed of stratified squamous epithelium, an
underlying lamina propria and muscularis extema .
99
V NASAL CAVITY
Adult Xenopus possess three separate nasal chambers or cavities for the
detection of odorants in air and water. Tadpoles possess two chambers, a
principal chamber for detecting waterborne odorants and a vomeronasal
organ that is thought to detect odors mainly from conspecific animals.
During metamorphosis a third chamber, the middle chamber, develops
rostral to the principal chamber. The latter chamber is re-specified to detect
airborne odorants while the middle chamber takes over the role of detecting
waterborne odorants. The vomeronasal organ does not change. Each
chamber has unique histological characteristics that reflect its function. For
example, the principal chamber has mucus-producing Bowman's glands in
the lamina propria that secrete mucus onto the surface of the olfactory
epithelium .
caudal Figure 20. Schematic three-

dimensional diagram of the
chambers of the Xenopus nasal
cavity from a dorsal view. This
diagram does not reflect the actual
shape of the chambers, which are
rather convoluted, but rather the
relative positions of the chambers.
The middle chamber takes up a
rostrolateral position. The principal
chamber takes up a caudomedial
position and the vomeronasal organ
is a diverticulum off of the junction
between the middle and principal
chambers with the closed end
projecting medially.
rostral
Figure 22. (RIGHT) Layers of chemosensory mucosa as exemplified by the principal

chamber epithelium. Both olfactory and vomeronasal mucosa are composed of a
pseudostratified epithelium and underlying lamina propria. Whereas the principal
chamber and vomeronasal organ have glands, only the principal chamber demonstrates
an obvious layer of mucus overlying the epithelium. The standard cell layers of
epithelium from base to surface are a basal cell layer that gives rise to new cells, a
sensory cell layer containing the cell bodies of chemosensory neurons and a
sustentacular or supporting cell layer. Peripheral to this are the dendrites of the sensory
cells intermingled with the processes of the supporting cells.
100
ColorAtlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Cranial Structures
internal
naris
Figure 21. Microscopic image of three nasal chambers. Inset shows the plane of
section in the parasagittal plane . The middle chamber is rostral (to the right), the
principal cavity is caudal, and the vomeronasal organ is ventral to both other
chambers . The principal cavity opens into the roof of the mouth as the internal naris.
101
~cili a and microvilli
Figure 23. (ABOVE) High magnification image of the olfactory epithelium of the
middle chamber. Note that there are no glands in the lamina propria . The olfactory
epithelium of the middle chamber is composed of both ciliated and microvillar cells.
This is unique in amphibians but similar to the olfactory epithelium of fishes.
102
Figure 24. Tangential section of the olfactory epithelium in the principal

chamber. Bowman ' s glands are cut in cross section demonstrating granules in
the apical portion of the acinar cells.
Figure 25. Transverse section of the olfactory epithelium in the princip al

chamber. Bowman' s glands are oriented longitudinally demonstrating the
acinar port ion of the gland and the duct that carries mucus to the surface of
the epithelium. The mucus layer can be seen overlying the dendritic layer
of the epithelium. Cilia are embedded in the mucus but cannot be seen here
103
Color Atla s of Xenopus laevis Histolo gy Cranial Structures
lumen
Figure 26. Vomeronasal epithel ium. The vomeronasal mucosa is unique in that it
surrounds a very narrow lumen, the sensory cells possess only microv illi, which are seen
as very long membranous extensions of the sensory cell dendrite into the lumen, and the
sustentacular cells occupy a very distinct layer separated from the sensory cells.
ciliated cells mucous cells
#'
104
VI BRAIN
Xenopus frogs have a typical amphibian brain. Note that in all brain
diagrams and micrographs, rostral is to the left.
telencephalon
• , ,
mesencephalon
•
.. w
,
diencephalon myelencephalon
Figure 28. Diagram of the dorsal view of Xenopus brain showing the major brain divisions .
Figure 29. Low magnification image of a parasagittal section of Xenopus

brain showing three of the brain divisions . Inset shows plane of section.
Figure 27. (LEFT) High magnification image of respiratory mucosa from a

ventrocaudal area of the nasal cavity just caudal to the vomeronasal organ .
The respiratory epithelium contains numerous ciliated cells and mucous cells.
Basal cells located at the base of the epithelium give rise to new respiratory
cells. Underlying the epithelium is a typical lamina propria.
105
optic chiasm
Figure 30. Parasagittal section of Xenopus brain demonstrating the location

of several structures that will be illustrated at higher magnification below.
mitral cell
layer
olfactory nerve
Figure 31. High magnification image of olfactory bulb showing the various layers. The
olfactory nerve contains axons of the olfactory receptor neurons located in the nasal cavity.
These axons project into the glomerular layer where they synapse with the dendrites of mitral
cells. The cell bodies of the mitral cells are located in the mitral cell layer.
106
lateral ventricle
Figure 32. High magnification of the lateral brain ventricle and ependyma. The
lateral ventricle is a space within the telencephalon that is filled with cerebral spinal
fluid. The lateral ventricle is lined with ependymal cells that possess cilia. The
underlying tissue in this micrograph is the neural tissue of the pallium, the layered
structure of the telencephalon.
ependymal
cells
Figure 33. Low magnification image of the choroid plexus. The choroid plexus consists
of an inner lining of ependymal cells and invaginating blood vessels with an intermedial
layer of pia mater. Cerebral spinal fluid is produced by blood plasma passing through the
pia mater and ependymal cells in the brain ventricles.
107
endothelial cells
ependymal cells
Figure 34. High magnification image of the choro id plexus illustrating the
three layers: endothelial cells of the capillaries , pia mater and ependymal cells.
Figure 35. High magnification image of the habenular nucleus. This diencephalic nucleus
has connections with the pineal gland that, in Xenopus, is embedded within the choroid
plexus. In many amphib ians and reptiles it is an asymmetric nucleus with two habenular
nuclei on the left and one nucleus on the right side of the brain. In Xenop us habenular cell
bodies are arra nged around the rim of the nucleus whereas the neuropil in centrally located.
108
Figure 36. Low magnification image of the tectum . The tectum is a structure in the
mesenceph alon that receives heavy visual input. It is a layered cortical structure.
Figure 37. High magnification image of the tectaI layers showing the
mesencephalic trigem inal cells. The tectum has nine layers as indicated by the
numbers. mesencephalic trigeminal cells are located in the deep layers. These cells
respond to proprioceptive stimuli in the head region.
109
Figure 38. High magnification image of mesencephalic

trigeminal cells (arrows).
Figure 39. High magnification image of the optic chiasm and optic tract. The optic
chias m is the region in which axons from ganglion cells of the retina cross to project
to the opposite side of the brain. These axons continue caudally in the optic tract.
110
trigeminal
ganglion
cell bodies
satellite
cells
Figure 40. High magnifi cation image of the trigeminal ganglion. The trigeminal ganglion
is located ventral and slightly caudal to the optic chiasm. It is composed of clusters of
large round somatosensory neurons with prominent nuclei and nucleoli. Myelinated
processes are also grouped together in the ganglion. The cell bodies of the trigeminal
neurons do not receive any synapses and are therefore surrounded by glial satellite cells.
Figure 41. High magnification image ofa myelin ated nerve. Boxed area shows
myelinated axons cut longitudinally and circle shows myelinated axons cut in
cross-section. Inset shows details of myelin sheath and axona l compartment.
III
VII MIDDLE AND INNER EAR
The inner ear in Xenopus frogs contains the peripheral auditory and
vestibular sensory structures. The arrangement of the various structures is
shown in Figures 42 and 43 below . The audito ry structures consist of the
amphibian and basilar papillae. Having two audito ry organ s is unique to
frogs and some salamanders. The vestibular structures include the maculus,
sacculus, lagena and circular canals.
caudal vertical rostral vertical

canal canal
basilar
papilla
Figure 42. Lateral view of the right inner ear structures of a frog. The structure
shown consists of the membran eous labyrinth containing endolymph and the sensory
organs of audition and vestibular sense. The sensory portion s of the organs are shown
in blue. These are the regions which house the hair cells and received innervation
from the VlII nerve gang lia. The auditory sensory structures are the amphibian and
basilar papillae which are located within the sacculus. The basilar papilla is an
evaginated region of the caudal wall of the sacculus. The amphibian papilla is a
protuberance of the medial wall of the sacculus just ventral to the utriculus . The
vestibular sensory structures are the cristae within the canals (red), and the maculae
within the utriculus (yellow), the sacculus (green), and a ventral diverticulum off of
the sacculus known as the lagena. The histological sections presented below are
sections of the inner ear in the orientation shown above beginning in the lateral most
parasagittal plane and proceeding through to the region of the basilar papilla and
lagena that are located medially.
11 2
endolymphatic circular
sac canals otic capsule
VIII nerve
ganglion
basilar
papilla sacculus
perilymphatic cistern
round window
Figure 43. Caudal view of the outer (tympanic memb rane), and middle and inner ear
structures. The tympanic memb rane is located on the outside of the animal. The middl e
car ossicles, the plectrum , columella and operculum, transmit sound to the oval window.
Pressure waves are set up in the peri lymphatic system and are transmitted to the
endolym phatic system which houses the sensory organs . All the sensory structures in the
inner ear are innervated by the rostral and caudal VIII nerve and associated ganglia. The
rostral gang lion innerva tes the horizontal and rostral vertical cana ls, the utriculus and a
portion of the sacculus. The caudal ganglion innervates the caudal vertical canal,
amphibia n and basilar papillae, lagena and remaining portion of the sacculus.
Figure 44. Diagram of

ear in the coronal plane
and as seen from a caudal
view, showing planes of
section for the figures in
this chapter.
F EDC B A
113
pseudostratified
epithelium
perilymphatic cistern lumen
Figure 45. Low magnific ation image of the dors al wall of the perilymph atic cistern
(Plane A in Figure 44). The cistern is lined with a pseudo stratified epithelium that appear s
identical to that of the respiratory epithelium of the nasal cavity.
mucous ce Is ci iated cells
Figure 46. High magnification image of epithelium within perilymphatic cistern (Plane A
in Figure 44). The epithelium is composed of ciliated cells and mucous cells. The ciliated
cell apical ends are in the form of wedge shaped extensions with a broad surface
memb rane facing the lumen.
114
horizontal
canal
Figure 47. Low magnification image through two canals of the inner ear cistern (Plane B
in Figure 44). The horizontal canal is oriented in cross-section and the rostral vertical
canal is orien ted obliquely. Cristae appear as crescents of sensory and supporting cells.
Figure 48. High magnification image of the cristae from the horizontal cana l (Plane
8 in Figure 44). Image has been rotated counterclockwise 90 degrees.
115
sacculus
macula
Figure 49. Low magnification image of utriculus

and sacculus with macula (Plane C in Figure 44).
116
Figure 50. High magnification of macula of the sacculus (Plane

C in Figure 44). The macula of the sacculus is a large organ
composed of sensory hair cells and supporting cells.
remnant of otolith
hair cells
Figure 51. High magnification image of the macula of the utriculus . This
organ is crescent-shaped in cross-section (only the rostral wall is shown
here). Remnants of the otolithic membrane are seen over the hair cells.
Nerve fibers of the VIII nerve can be seen coursing to the organ.
117
Color Atlas ofXenopus laevis Histology Cranial Structures
•./ amphibian
- . papilla
Figure 52. Low magnification image of the amphibian papilla (Plane D in Figure
44). This organ is located on the caudal wall of the sacculus. It is an auditory
structure and therefore responds to vibrations in the air or water.
Figure 53. High

magnification image
of the amphibian
papilla.
118
sacculus
lagenar
lumen
Figure 54. Low magnification image of the basilar papilla (Plane E in Figure 44).
This is an auditory structure similar to the amph ibian papilla. Note the tectorial
memb rane. This membran e moves with the movement of the endolymph and
stimulates the hair cells of the basilar papilla. As seen from this parasagittal
section, the basilar papilla is just dorsal to the lagena, which is a vestibular organ.
Figure 55. High magnifi-

cation image of the basilar
papilla. The tectorial mem-
brane normally rests on the
apical surface of the hair
cells. VIII nerve fibers can
be seen projecting to the
basal surface of the organ to
innervate the hair cells.
119
./
I vnr. ganglion .
/
J"
Figure 56. (ABOVE) Low magnification

image of the lagena (Plane E in Figure 44).
The lagena is a vestibular organ. The macula
Figure 57. (BELOW) High
is covered by an otolithic membrane which
appears here as fuzzy blue material over the magnification image of the
hair cells of the macula. lagenar macula.
120
Figure 58. High magnification image of the VIII nerve ganglion (Planes E and F in
Figure 44). Cell bodies of the VIII nerve sensory neurons appear as small round cell
bodies with a somewhat ecce ntric nucleus. Myelinated axons travel in bundl es. These
cells innervate the hair cells of the auditory and vestibular ganglia .
Figure 59. High magnification

image of VIII nerve gang lion cells
and their glial ensheathing satellite
cells, and gang lion cell processes
with their glial ensheathing
Schwarm cells. Schwann cells
(small dark purpl e nuclei) among
nerve processes) provide a myelin
sheath to the nerve processes (here
appearing as a purp le circle around
a clear center where the axon
resides). VIII ganglion cells
demonstrate a round nucleus with a
prominent nucleolus.
121
VIII EYE AND ASSOC IATE D STRUCTURES
Xenop us frogs have rather small eyes comp ared to many other frogs but
have well-developed retinas . The sclera contains a cartilaginous layer that
adds extra support to the eye.
Figu re 60. Diagram of the eye of Xenopus laevis.
Figure 61. Low magnification image of the eye of Xenopus in the parasagittal plane.
Details of the ocular structures are illustrated in the figures on the following pages.
122
Figure 62. Low magnification image of the sclera, ocular muscles and Harderian
gland. The ocular muscles attach to the sclera. The sclera contains a layer of
cartilage for added support to the eye. The Harderi an gland is located within the
orbit and empties via a duct onto the cornea . In addition, Harderian gland
secretions are thought to gain access to olfactory structures via the nasolacrimal
duct and may play a role in chemosensory function.
123
Figure 63. High magnification image of Harderian gland. At the apical surfaces of
the glandular cells, secretions are expelled into the Harderian gland lumen.
Figure 64. Low magnification image of the anterior segment. The ciliary
epithelium of the ciliary body is continuous with the retinal pigment epithelium,
and also with the epithelium of the iris. The dense connective tissue of the sclera
is continuous with the transparent corneal stroma. Deep to the lens capsule are a
few layers of epithelium that give rise to lens fibers.
124
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Crania! Structures
zonula
fibers
ciliary
epithelium
retina - - .....
Figure 65. Iris, corne a, and ciliary body. The ciliary epithelium is comprised of two
layers of simple cuboidal epithelium, with the apical surfaces of both layers in direct
contact with each othe r. The inner layer is non-pigmented, and the outer layer (which is
continuous with the retinal pigment epithelium) is pigmented. The two layers of
epithelium in the iris are arranged in the same manner as in the ciliary epithelium, except
that both layers are pigment ed. Thin zonular fibers are firmly attached to the basal layers
of the non-pigmented ciliary epithelium, and extend and attach to the lens capsule.
Contraction of smooth muscle in the cilia ry body allows for lens accommodation.
Aqueous humor is secre ted by the ciliary epithelium, and flows from the vitreal chamber
to the anterior chamber. The aqueous fluid leaves the eye through the trabecular
meshwork and canal of Schlemm to enter episcleral veins.
125
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histolog y Cranial Structu res
aqueous chamber corneal endothelium
stratifi ed squamous epithelium
Figure 66. High magnification image of the cornea. The cornea is a multilayered
structure consisting of a non-pigmented stratified squamou s epithel ium, a connectiv e
tissue stroma and an endothel ium adjacent to the aqueou s chamber of the eye. The
squamous epithelium of the cornea is continuous with the integument of the head.
The corneal stoma is continu ous with the sclera.
vitreous
Figure 67. Image of the retina and optic nerve . The optic nerve leaves the retina
at the caudal region of the eye. The optic nerve contains the axons of the ganglion
cells of the retina. These axons proj ect to various nuclei of the brain after passing
through the optic chiasm to travel along the optic tracts. There is an open area of
the hyaline cartilage of the sclera where the optic nerve proj ects from the eye.
126
Figure 68. High magnifi cation of the optic nerve. The optic nerve consists of
myelinated ganglion cell axons projecting from the neural retina to the optic tectum and
visual areas in the brain. Nuclei of myelin-p roducing oligodendrocytes are observed
throughout the nerve. The nerve is surrounded by a connective tissue epineurium.
retinal pigmented epithelium
Figure 69. High magnification image of the retina. The retina is a layered structure. The
photoreceptors respond to photons of light that pass through the retina, and the neural
signal is transmitted through the retinal layers to the ganglion cells. There are both rod and
cone photoreceptors in the Xenopus retina, and the distal portions of the rod outer
segments are intimately associate d with the apical microvilli of the pigment epithelium.
127
/ h olio
choroid
O
c onocap t arts
inner plexiform layer
ganglion cell
Figure 70. High magnification image of the Xenopus laevis retina. The outer choroid layer is
a pigmented vascular layer. The choriocapillaris is a capillary layer in the choroid and is in
direct contact with the basal surface of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE). It supplies
the photoreceptors with oxyge n and nutrients. The fused basement membrane of the
choriocapillaris and the RPE is termed Bruch 's membrane (*). The RPE cells phagocytize
distal photoreceptor outer segments that are shed under a cyclic rhythm.
128
Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Index
Index
Acidophils, 70 Capsule, 44
Acinar cells, 44, 103 Cardiac glands, 34
Acinus, 93, 94 Cardiac muscle, 16, 18
ACTH, 70 Cardiac stomach, 34
Adenohypophysis, 69-71 Cardiovascular system, 21
Adipose tissue, 14 Cartilage, 10
Adrenal gland, 75, 76 Central artery, 29. 30
Adrenocortical cells, 75, 76 Central lacteal. 35. 36
Adventitia, 66 Centroacinar cells. 46
Afferent arterioles, 61 Cerebral spinal fluid. 107
Alveolar capillaries, 53, 54 Chemosensory mucosa. 100
Alveolar duct, 54, 55 Chemosensory neurons, 100
Alveolar sac, 52-55 Chondrocytes, 9, 11
Alveoli, 52 Chorloca pillaris, 128
Anterior segment, 124 Choroid. 128
Aqueous humor, 125 Choroid plexus. 106-108
Arterioles, 22 Chromaffin cells. 75, 76
Artery, 21, 22 Chrornophils, 70
Atrioventricular node, 25 Chromophobes, 70
Atrium, 23 Cilia. 4. 58. 59, 94. 107
Auerbach's plexus, 1, 37 Ciliary body. 124. 125
Axons,19 Ciliary epithelium. 125
Balbiani body, 78 Ciliated pseudostratified epithelium. 98
Basal cell, 91, 100 Circular canals, 112
Basilar papillae, 112, 11 3, 11 9 Cloaca, 79
Basophils, 15,70 Collagen fibers. 7. 10
Bile, 40, 41, 42 Collecting ducts. 57
Bile duct, 40, 42 Collecting tubule, 61, 62
Blood, 15, 22 Colon. 18. 37-39
Blood cells, 16 Columella, 113
Blood vessels, 16, 21,67 Common hepatic duct. 40
Bone, 11 Cone outer segments. 127
Bone lining cells, 12 Connective tissue. 5
Bone marrow, 16 Cornea. 3, 125. 126
Bowman's capsule, 60 Cortex. 28. 57
Bowman's gland, 50, 103 Cortical granules. 78
Brain, 105-107 Cranial structures. 89
Bronchioles, 52, 54 Cranium. 89
Bronchus, 52-54 Cuboidal epithelium. 83. 87
Bruch's membrane, 128 Cupula. 88
C cells, 75 Dense connective tissue. 39. 44, 79, 82. 85
Calcified cartilage, 12 Dense irregular connective
Calyx, 64 tissue. 3. 7, 86. 87
Canal of Sch1emm, 125 Dense regular connective tissue. 8, 86, 87
Canaliculi, 12, 13, 40-42 Dentin, 95. 96
Canals of Hering, 41, 42 Dentinal tubules. 96
Capillary, 22, 32 Dermis. 3. 85. 86, 87
Capsular ligament, 14 Diencephalon, 69. 73
Diffuse. 38 Goblet cells. 5. 36. 38. 39. 51

Diffuse lymphatic tissue, 27. 41, 59 Granular cells. 87
Distal convoluted tubule. 1,59. 61 Growth hormone, 70
Ducts. 4. 43, 46 Habenular nucleus. 106, 108
Duodenum. 21. 35. 36, 37 Hair cells. 115. 119. 121
Elastic cartilage. 10. 51 Harderian gland. 123. 124
Elastic fibers. 10 Heart, 21, 23
Enamel. 95 Heart valves. 24
Endocardium. 23. 24 Hematopoietic cells. 11, 12. 16
Endocrine cells. 45 Hepatic artery. 40
Endocrine system. 69 Hepatocytes, 39. 40-42
Endolymph. 112 Herring bodies. 72
Endomysium. 17 High endothelial venules, 29
Endothelium, 21 . 63 Horizontal canal. 11 5
Enterocytes, 32, 36 Howshlp's lacuna. 13
Eosinophils, 6. 15. 16 Hyaline cartilage. 7. 9. 10. 14, 51. 53
Ependyma, 107 Hypophyseal portal system. 71
Ependymal cells. 20. 73. 107. 108 Hypophysis. 69, 70
Epicardium. 23 Hypothalamus. 69
Epidermis. 3. 85-88 Infundibularstalk. 69
Epiglottis. 10.51 .97,98 Infundibulum. 71
Epineurium. 127 Inner ear, 89. 112
Epiphyseal epithelium. 73 Inner ear cistern. 115
Epiphysis. 73 Inner nuclear layer. 127, 128
Epithelial tissue. 1 Inner plexiform layer, 127. 128
Erythrocyte. 22, 40 Integument. 85
Esophagus, 89. 99 Intercalated ducts, 44. 45. 46
Exocrine, 44 Interfollicu1ar cells, 75
Exocrine glands, 3, 85. 87 Interrenal gland. 75
External nares. 47 Interstitial cells. 73
Extracellular colloid. 74 Interstitial cells of Leydig. 84
Extracellular matrix, 6. 7. 11 Intertubular space, 81
Eye, 122 Intralobularducts. 44-46
Fibroblasts. 6. 7. 38 Iris. 124, 125
Fibrocartilage. 10, 11 Isogenous groups. 9. 11
Fibromuscular stroma. 65 Jelly coats. 79
Flask cells. 59. 61. 62. 67 Juxtaglomerular cells. 61
Follicles. 74. 75 Keratinized stratified squamous
Follicular cells. 74. 75. 78 epithelium. 86
FSH.70 Keratinocytes. 91
Fundic glands. 34 Kidney, 1.57. 59.64.75
Fundic stomach, 33, 34 Kinociliurn, 88
Gall bladder. 2. 6. 42, 43 Kupffer cells. 40
Ganglion cells. 127, 128 Lacteals, 21
Gastric glands, 32 Lacunae. 12
Gastric pits, 32-34 Lagena, 112. 119. 120
Gastrointestinal system. 31 Lamellar bone. 11 . 12
Glial cells. 20 Lamina propria. 6. 21, 31-33, 35-38. 42.
Glomerulus. 60. 64 43.66,67,91 .99,102
Glycogen. 25. 40 Larynx. 74, 97
130
Lateral line organs, 88 Muscularis mucosa, 31 -33

Lateralventricle, 106, 107 Myelin sheath, III , 121
Lens, 124 Myelinated axons, III, 121
Leukocytes, 15, 16, 40 Myelinated ganglion cell, 127
Leydig cells, 83, 84 Myelinated nerve, III
LH,70 Myenteric plexus, 1,33,37
Ligaments, 8 Myocardium, 24
Lip, 90 Myoepithelial cell, 93, 940
Lipid droplets, 76, 84 Myometrium, 23
Liver, 27, 39, 40, 41 Nasal cavity, 4,47, 48, 50,100
Loop of henle, 58, 59, 63 Nerve, 19
Loose connective tissue, 6, 7, 42, 87 Nervous tissue, 19
Lung, 52-56 Neurohypophysis, 69
Lymph node, 28, 29 Neuromasts, 88
Lymphatic duct, 36 Neuropil, 20
Lymphatic nodules, 28 Neurovascular bundle, 22
Lymphatic organs, 27 Neutrophils, 15
Lymphatictissue, 38 Nodes of Ranvier, 19
Lymphatic vessel., 21, 22 Nonkeratinized stratifiedsquamous
Lymphocytes, 15, 59 epithelium, 91
Macrophages, 30 Nuclearenvelope, 78
Macula, 116,117 ,120 Ocular muscles, 123
Maculadensa, 61 Odontoblast, 96
Maculus, 112 Odontoblasticprocesses, 96
Mantlecells, 88 Olfactory bulb, 106
Marginal sinuses, 28 Olfactoryepithelium, 4, 47, 50, 102, 103
Marrow, II Olfactory nerve, 106
Marrow cavity, 12 Oligodcndrocytes, 127
Median eminence, 69, 71, 72 Oocyte, 77, 78
Mediastinum, 81, 83 Operculum, 113
Medulla, 57 Optic chiasm, 106, 110
Medullarycords, 28 Optic nerve, 126, 127
Medullary sinusoids, 28 Optic tract, 110
Me1anocytes, 38, 86 Oral cavity, 48, 89, 90, 91, 92
Melatonin, 73 Oral epithelium, 95
Merocrine secretion, 39 Ossicles, 113
Microvilli, 36, 59, 64, 104 Osteoclasts, 13
Middleear, 113 Osteocytes, 11-13
Mitochondria, 78 Osteoid,I3
Monocytes, 15 Otolithicmembrane, 117, 120
Mucosa, 31-33 Outer nuclearlayer, 127
Mucousacini, 92 Outer plexiformlayer, 127
Mucous cells, 91, 93 Oval window, 113
Mucousglands, 86, 87 Ovary, 77
Mucousneck cells, 33 Osteoblasts, 12,13
Mucus, 33, 39, 59, 62, 87 OViduct, 79, 80
Muscular tissue, 16 Oviductglands, 80
Muscularis, 43, 66 Pacraeatic acinar cells, 46
Muscularis externa, 18,31, 33, 35, 37, 38, Pacreatic acini, 45
99
131
Palate, 90, 92 Renal capsule, 58-60,

Pallium , 107, Renal corpuscle, 59-61, 64
Pancreas, 2, 43-46 Renal medulla, 62, 63
Pancreatic acinar cells, 43 Renin, 61
Pancreatic acini, 44 Respiratory epithelium, 4, 50, 51, 105, 114
Papilla, 118 Respiratory syste m, 47
Papill ary ducts, 64 Reticular cells, 27
Parenchyma, 39 Reticular fibers, 27
Parietal cells, 33 Retina, 126-128
Pars distalis, 69, 70, 72 Retinal pigment epithelium, 124, 128
Pars intermedia, 69, 71 Rod inner segment, 128
Pars nervosa, 69, 71, 72 Rod outer seg ments, 127, 128
Pars tuberalis, 72 Sacculus, 112, 116, 117
Perichondrium, 9, 10 Salivary gland, 92, 94
Perilymphatic cistern, 114 Satellite cells, 20, Ill, 121
Perimysium , 17 Schwarm cells, 19, 121
Perineurium , 19 Sclera, 123, 124
Periosteum , 12 Secondary plexus , 71
Peripheral nerve, 19,22 Seminiferous tubules, 81-84
Pharynx, 51, 97 Sensory cells, 91, 104
Pheromones, 48 Sensory cilia, 50
Photoreceptors, 73, 127 Sensory ganglion, 20
Pia mater, 107, 108 Sensory hair cells, 117
Pigment granules, 77, 78 Serosa, 1, 37, 38
Pigmented cells, 56 Serous glands, 86
Pineal gland, 73, 108 Sertoli cells, 82
Pinealocytes, 73 Simple columnar epithelium, 2, 32, 36, 38,
Pitu icytes, 71 39, 42, 43, 66
Pituitary gland, 69 Simple cuboidal epithelium, 1, 2, 46, 64
Plasma cells, 6 Simpl e squamous epithelium, 1, 37, 53, 64
Plectrum , 113 Sinusoids, 39-41, 71, 72
Pneumocyte, 53-56 Skeletal muscle, 16, 17, 22
Podocytes, 60 Skin, 85, 87, 88
Portal triad, 27, 39, 40-42 Small intestine, 35-37
Portal vein, 40, 41 Smooth muscle, 18,22, 31-33, 37, 38,53
Prickle cell, 90, 91 Smoo th muscle, 16
Primary capillary plexus, 70, 71 Som atosensory neurons, III
Primary plexus, 72 Spermatid, 82, 83
Prolactin, 70 Spermatocytes, 82
Proximal convoluted tubule, 59, 60, 64 Spleen, 29, 30
Pseudostratified columnar Splenic cords, 29
epithelium, 4, 50, 65 Splenic sinuses, 29, 30
Pseudostratified epithelium, 100 Stereocilia, 88
Pseudounipolar neurons, 20 Stomach, 31-34
Purkinje fibers, 25 Straight tubules, 81, 83
Pyloric glands, 34 Stratified columnar ep ithelium, 98
Pylor ic stomach , 34 Stratified cuboidal epithelium, 4
Red blood cells, 15 Stratified squamous epithelium, 99
Red pulp , 29, 30 Stratified squamous keratinized
Releasing hormones, 70, 71 epithelium, 3
132
ColorAtlas of Xenopus laevis Histology Index
Stratified squamous non keratinized Tooth, 96

epithelium, 3 Trabecular meshwork, 125
Stratum basale, 86 Trachea, 9, 21 , 51, 97, 99
Stratum corneum, 86 Transitional epithelium, 5, 6 6 ~ 6 8
Stratum granulosum, 86 Trigeminal ganglion, 20, III
Stratum lucidum, 86 TSF,70
Stratum spinosum, 86 Tubuli recti, 81, 83
Subcapsular sinuses, 28 Tunica albuginea, 82
Submucosa, 31, 33 Tympanic membrane, 113
Surface mucous cells, 33 Ureter, 65, 66
Sustentacular cells, 88, 104 Urinary bladder, 5, 66-68
Syncytium, 87 Urinary pole, 60, 64
Synovial capsule, 14 Urinary space, 60
Synovial fluid, 14 Urinary system, 57
Synovialjoint, 14 Utriculus, 116
Synovial membrane, 14 Vascular pole, 61, 64
Taste bud, 90, 91 Vein, 21, 22
Tectal giant cells, 110 Ventricle, 23, 25
Tectorial membrane, 11 9 Vestibular organ, 120
Tectum, 106, 109 Villus, 35,36
Teeth, 89, 95 Visceral pleura, 52, 53
Telencephalon, 107 Vomeronasal epithelium, 104
Tendons, 8 Vomeronasal organ, 48, 100, 101
Testes, 81 White fat, 14
Testosterone, 84 White pulp, 29, 30
Theca layer, 78 Woven bone, 12
Thyroglobulin, 74 Yolk platelets, 78
Thyroid gland, 74, 75 Zonular fibers, 125
133

Color Atlas of Xenopuslaevis Histology

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Color Atlas of Xenopuslaevis Histology

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Color Atlas of

Xenopus laevis Histology

CELESTE R. WIRSIG-WIECHMANN, PH.D.

Springer Science+Business Media, LLC

Wiechmann, Alian F., 1954-

Copyright © 2003 Springer Science+Business Media New York

Permission for books published in Europe: permissions@wkap.n!

Printed an acid-free paper,

Allan F. Wiechmann, Ph.D.

8. Repro ductive Organs 77

10. Cranial Structures 89

Body organs are composed of a combination of four basic tissue types,

___-:::;....simple cuboidal epithelium

A. F. Wiechmann et al., Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology

Figure 3. Simple cuboidal

simple columnar epithelium __

stratified squamous keratinized epithelium

Figure 5. Stratified squamous keratinized epithelium. A. Low magni fication of the

stratified squamous non-keratin ized epithelium

Figure 6. Stratified squamous non-keratinized epithelium. A. The simple stratified non-

Figure 7. Stratified cuboi-

pseudostraffied columnar epithelium

Figure 8. Pseudostratified columnar epithelium . Pseudostratified ciliated columnar

ILl Regular connecti ve tissue (connective tissue proper)

11.1.11 Dense connective tissue

dense regular CO"'Rlec~thlre lI::t::tUIi

Cartilage is a specialized connective tissue that provides structural

Figure 21. Canaliculi

III Muscular Tissue

Classification of muscular tissues

Muscular tissues are classified as such based on their common function,

Figure 27. (ABOVE) Longit-

Figure 33. Sensory (trigeminal) ganglion. A. Low magnification of sensory

Figure 34. Neurons in the

Figure 2. Lymphatic vessels.

A. F. Wiechmann et al., Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology

Figure 3. Blood and lymphatic vessels.

Figure 4. Low magnification of the heart.

Figure 6. Heart valves. A. Low

The lymphati c system consists of group s of cells and organs organized

I DIFFUSE LYMPHOID TISSUE

Figure 2. Diffuse lymphoid

A. F. Wiechmann et al., Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology

Figure 4. Sinuses of the lymph node

Figure 6. Low magnification of the

Figure 7. Red and white

The major function of the gastrointestinal system is to digest and absorb

Figure 2. Major layers of the

A. F. Wiechmann et al., Color Atlas of Xenopus laevis Histology

Figure 4. Epithelium and glands of the

Figure 5. Muscularis extema of

Figure 6. The three major regions of the stomach. A.

Figure 8. The muco sa of

Figure 9. A villus of the duodenum . The surface epithelium of the duodenum is

Figure 12. Low magnification

Figure 13. The layers of

Figure 16. Low magnification image of

Figure 17. The organi-

Figure 19. Portal triads of the

Figure 23. Low magnification

Figure 27. Low magnification image

Figure 28. Capsule of the pancreas. The pancreas is

I Figure 1. Low magnification

Figure 2. Chambers of the