Histochemical studies of the tongue of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The present investigation was carried out on 20 recently died, apparently healthy adult buffalo which were free from any pathological condition of tongue from Municipal Slaughter House, Bikaner. The histochemical reactions were mainly observed in the epithelium and submucosal glands. A strong positive PAS reaction was seen in the stratum corneum and endothelium of blood vessels whereas the lamina propria showed a negative PAS reaction. The PAS reactivity was negative in saliva-treated sections. Epithelium showed moderate reactions to acidic mucopolysaccharides (Alcian blue at pH-1.0). Some secretory units had weaker PAS Alcian Blue positive reaction and took lighter blue stain (at pH 1.0) while some had strong positive reaction and took dark blue stain (at pH 2.5). In Dane's and Ayoub Skhlar stains, Stratum corneum took brilliant red colour and a reddish orange colour respectively, suggesting a higher concentration of keratin and pre-keratin.