Physiological adaptation in relation to hyperosmotic stress in the epidermis of a fresh-water teleost Barbus sophor (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae): a histochemical study.

The changes in distribution of mucopolysaccharides, glycogen and protein bound sulphydryl groups of cysteine in the various cellular components of the epidermis of Barbus sophor along with its structural alterations as a result of hyperosmotic stress, have been described using histochemical techniques. The hyperosmotic saline induces a cyclic secretion of acid mucopolysaccharides by the mucous cells. Simultaneously the polygonal cells also show a marked disturbance in the processes of mucogenesis and keratinization, indicating an inverse relationship between the degree of keratinization and the amount of mucus secreted by epidermis. The role of glycogen in the polygonal cells has been discussed in relation to disturbed mucogenesis. The appearance of intercellular spaces in basal layer and middle layer has been correlated with the passage for movement of increased amounts of nutrients through the skin.