Histochemical distribution of acid mucopolysaccharides in the cartilage of the selachians.

From an analysis of the histochemical data obtained in studies on the cartilage of the various pieces of the skeleton of Torpedo ocellata and Scylliorhinus canicula, it has been possible to deduce that the matrix contains a considerable quantity of nonsulfated acid mucopolysaccharides, chiefly relatable to the hyaluronic acid, and sulfated mucopolysaccharides relatable to the chondroitinsulfates A and C. The capsules show a prevalence of chondroitinsulfates. The presence of the latter substances is discussed, together with the probable mechanical function that they perform.