Abstract:
This study describes the distribution of vimentin, desmin, smooth muscle actin
(SMA) and laminin in the oviduct of the laying domestic fowl. Vimentin
immunostaining was localised in the luminal epithelium of the infundibulum,
magnum, magnum–isthmus junction and isthmus. The luminal epithelium of
the shell gland regions displayed weak vimentin immunostaining. Vimentin
immunostaining was demonstrated in the glandular grooves of the tubular
infundibular region. In contrast, gland cells in the magnum, isthmus and shell
gland regions were vimentin immunonegative. Fibroblasts and vascular
endothelial cells in the lamina propria of the oviductal regions studied exhibited
vimentin immunostaining. Strong desmin and SMA immunostaining were
present in the smooth muscle cells of the tunica muscularis and vascular tunica
media. In this study, basement membranes underlying the luminal and glandular
epithelia were immunopositive for laminin. In addition, basement membranes
associated with smooth muscle cells exhibited laminin immunostaining.
The results of the study indicate that the immunolocalisation of desmin, SMA
and laminin in the oviduct of the domestic fowl is similar to that in the mammalian
uterus. The immunolocalisation of vimentin in the domestic fowl varies
depending on the oviductal region.