Histochemical localization of prostaglandin-synthetase in the salivary glands of Praomys (Mastomys) natalensis.

The cellular distribution of prostaglandin-synthetase was studied in the salivary glands of Praomys (Mastomys) natalensis. Only the epithelial cells of the ducts showed discrete prostaglandin-synthetase activity, whereas the acini and the stroma gave completely negative results in all three salivary glands of both sexes. The presence of exogenous substrates was not required for the reaction, since identical results are observed following incubation with and without arachidonic acid. The localization of prostaglandin synthetase in the ductal epithelia of Praomys salivary glands is related to a possible regulatory role of the prostaglandins on the reabsorptive activity of the ductal cells.