Changes in the visceral fat bodies associated with haematopoiesis and lipid metabolism, in relation to tail regeneration in the scincid lizard, Mabuya carinata: a histomorphological analysis.

In order to understand the role of visceral fat bodies in regeneration, a histomorphological analysis of the fat bodies in Mabuya during its tail regeneration was undertaken. The investigation revealed 2 interesting aspects; a visible shrinkage of the fat bodies and a fall in the histosomatic index (HSI), as well as an enhancement in haemopoietic activity and infiltration of lymphocytes in the fat bodies during the 1st 7 days of tail regeneration. These observations are taken to indicate the involvement of visceral fat bodies in the regenerative mechanics. The appearance of lymphocytes on the 5th and 7th days and their subsequent disappearance together with lipid depletion are construed from the functioning of lymphocytes in lipid transport during their passage to the wound site.