Adrenaline-, noradrenaline- and small granule- containing cells in the adrenal gland of Discoglossus pictus (Amphibia, Anura)

Abstract

In the adrenal gland of Discoglossus pictus, various types of chromaffin cells are described: noradrenaline cells, adrenaline cells and small granule-containing cells (on the basis of electron density and shape of the granules). The chromaffin cells occur in small groups, and have cytoplasmic processes which may surround them in the form of parallel layers. Their nerve supply is sparse. The possible function of SGC-cells, in relation to those described in other vertebrates, is discussed.