Immunohistochemical localization of vimentin, S-100 protein and neurofilament in the lacrimal gland of the camel (Camelus dromedarius)

The distribution of vimentin, S-100 protein and neurofilament in the lacrimal gland of the camel (camelus dromedarius) was investigated using immunohistochemical techniques. Fresh lacrimal glands collected from slaughtered camels from the local abbatoir were cut into small pieces, fixed in paraformaldehyde-glutaraldehyde solution containing picric acid and processed for immunohistochemistry using antibodies against vimentin, S-100 protein and neurofilament. Vimentin was observed in the endothelial cells of blood vessels and in the nerves located in the perivascular, interlobular and periacinar regions. S-100 was discerned mainly in the nerves of the interlobular connective tissue and in nerves lying close to blood vessels and acinar tissue. Neurofilament was also found in nerves and coexisted with both S-100 protein and vimentin. It is concluded that vimentin, S-100 protein and neurofilament are widely distributed in the lacrimal gland of the camel and may play significant role in maintaining adequate lacrimal function.