The epidermis and its degeneration in the larval tail and adult body of Rana temporaria and Xenopus laevis (Amphibia: Anura)

Abstract

The tail epidermis of the larva and the body epidermis of adults of Rana temporaria and Xenopus laevis are described in terms of electron microscopy. The activity of lysosomes (determined by the localization of acid phosphatase) in relation to autolysis and the process of cellular cornification, is considered during the periods of climactic disappearance of the larval tail and skin sloughing of adults. The results obtained generally correspond for both genera. Larval tail epidermal cells completely disappear at metamorphic climax; those of the adult, which are shed, are replaced throughout life after each periodic sloughing. Nevertheless the mechanisms of their epidermal cell loss are comparable, though the level of lysosomal activity in larval tail epidermal cells is higher than in the adult body epidermis. This higher activity of lysosomal enzymes may facilitate the heavy necrosis which ensues in the larval tail at metamorphic climax.

Influence of temperature on thyroid hormone signaling and endocrine disruptor action in Rana (Lithobates) catesbeiana tadpoles

“…Of particular note are comparisons between the effects of nonpermissive temperature on back skin and tail fin. In postembryonic development of Ranidae, the tail is resorbed while the back skin matures into several defined layers (Fox, 1974). Programmed cell death is required in both outcomes with tail resorption including apoptosis of both muscle and dermal cells and the remodeling of body skin involving apoptosis of apical and skein cells and dedifferentiation of a basal cell subpopulation to form the adult epidermis (Suzuki et al, 2002;Yoshizato, 2007).…”