The exceptional ability of one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) to survive in arid environments necessitates efficient digestive adaptations. This study investigates the morphology of chief cells within the fundic gland region of the abomasum (true stomach). Fundic gland tissue samples were obtained from 15 male camels (aged 1-20 years) slaughtered in Egypt. Light and electron microscopy techniques were employed to assess cellular morphology. Chief cells, primarily situated at the fundic gland base, exhibited a low columnar or cuboidal morphology. Hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed a basophilic cytoplasm. Periodic acid Schiff staining yielded negative results in most samples except for some older camels from Cairo slaughterhouse with periods of food deprivations, suggesting mucus storing in the cell. Electron microscopy revealed age-dependent variations as well-developed microvilli and prominent rough endoplasmic reticulum in younger camels while in older ones show distended rough endoplasmic reticulum and almost absence of microvilli indicating a decrease in cell activity. This study offers a comprehensive description of chief cells in the camel abomasum, encompassing their morphology and maybe some age-related and feeding habits modifications.
Key words: Chief cells, fundic gland, one-humped, Camel, TEM.
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