Evidence for a frontal-organ homologue in the pineal complex of the salamander, Hynobius dunni

Cell Tissue Res. 1993 Jun;272(3):575-8. doi: 10.1007/BF00318564.

Abstract

The pineal complex of larval and adult salamanders, Hynobius dunni, was examined by light and scanning electron microscopy. This pineal complex displays an anterior and a posterior portion, both of which possess a lumen. The anterior lumen is small and closed, whereas the posterior lumen is in open communication with the third ventricle. Cell processes of the photoreceptor cells and microvilli of the supportive cells are visible in both lumina. The anterior part of the complex is formed by an independent, second evagination from the common pineal anlage; this process takes place immediately after hatching. The anterior body of the pineal complex of H. dunni appears to be homologous to the frontal organ of anurans.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Frontal Lobe / anatomy & histology*
  • Frontal Lobe / embryology
  • Frontal Lobe / ultrastructure
  • Larva
  • Microscopy, Electron
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Microvilli / ultrastructure
  • Photoreceptor Cells / ultrastructure
  • Pineal Gland / anatomy & histology*
  • Pineal Gland / embryology
  • Pineal Gland / ultrastructure
  • Urodela / anatomy & histology*