@article{2-s2.0-85201060242,

title = {Breaking through the eggshell: embryonic development of the premaxillary dentition in Lacerta agilis (Squamata: Unidentata) with special emphasis on the egg tooth},

author = { P. Kaczmarek and B. Metscher and M. Kowalska and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85201060242&doi=10.1093%2fzoolinnean%2fzlae096&partnerID=40&md5=ea37b6681220f3eeb131d8f9ffd7d2bb},

doi = {10.1093/zoolinnean/zlae096},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-01},

journal = {Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society},

volume = {201},

number = {4},

publisher = {Oxford University Press},

abstract = {The egg tooth of squamates is a true tooth that allows them to break, tear, or cut the eggshell during hatching. In this clade there are some uncertainties concerning the egg tooth implantation geometry, the number of germs, and their fates during embryonic development. Here, we used X-ray microtomography and light microscopy, focusing on the egg tooth and remaining premaxillary teeth of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis; Squamata: Unidentata). The developing egg tooth of this species passes through all the classic stages of tooth development. We did not find any evidence that the large size of the egg tooth is related to the merging of two egg tooth germs, which has recently been suggested to occur in snakes. Instead, this feature can be attributed to the delayed formation of the neighbouring regular premaxillary teeth. This might provide more resources to the developing egg tooth. At the last developmental stage, the egg tooth is a large, midline structure, bent forward as in most oviparous Unidentata. It is characterized by pleurodont implantation, and its base is attached to the pleura and a peculiar ridge of the alveolar bone. The attachment tissue contains periodontal ligament-like tissue, acellular cementum-like tissue, and alveolar bone. © The Author(s) 2024.},

note = {0},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85189627626,

title = {Does the pancreas of gekkotans differentiate similarly? Developmental structural and 3D studies of the mourning gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris) and the leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius)},

author = { M. Kowalska and P. Kaczmarek and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85189627626&doi=10.1111%2fjoa.14038&partnerID=40&md5=723d9ff7efad541373c59ae09e28afdc},

doi = {10.1111/joa.14038},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Anatomy},

volume = {245},

number = {2},

pages = {303-323},

publisher = {John Wiley and Sons Inc},

abstract = {This study investigated the pancreas differentiation of two species of gekkotan families—the mourning gecko Lepidodactylus lugubris (Gekkonidae) and the leopard gecko Eublepharis macularius (Eublepharidae)—based on two-dimensional (2D) histological samples and three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions of the position of the pancreatic buds and the surrounding organs. The results showed that at the moment of egg laying, the pancreas of L. lugubris is composed of three distinct primordia: one dorsal and two ventral. The dorsal primordium differentiates earlier than either ventral primordium. The right ventral primordium is more prominent and distinctive, starting to form earlier than the left one. Moreover, at this time, the pancreas of the leopard gecko is composed of the dorsal and right ventral primordium and the duct of the left ventral primordium. It means that the leopard gecko's left primordium is a transitional structure. These results indicate that the early development of the gekkotan pancreas is species specific. The pancreatic buds of the leopard and mourning gecko initially enter the duodenum by separate outlets, similar to the pancreas of other vertebrates. The pancreatic buds (3 of the mourning gecko and 2 of the leopard gecko) fuse quickly and form an embryonic pancreas. After that, the structure of this organ changes. After fusion, the pancreas of both gekkotans comprises four parts: the head of the pancreas (central region) and three lobes: upper, splenic, and lower. This organ develops gradually and is very well distinguished at hatching time. In both gekkotan species, cystic, hepatic, and pancreatic ducts enter the duodenum within the papilla. During gekkotan pancreas differentiation, the connection between the common bile duct and the dorsal pancreatic duct is associated with intestinal rotation, similar to other vertebrates. © 2024 Anatomical Society.},

note = {0},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85110091670,

title = {Architecture of the pancreatic islets and endocrine cell arrangement in the embryonic pancreas of the grass snake (Natrix natrix l.). immunocytochemical studies and 3d reconstructions},

author = { M. Kowalska and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85110091670&doi=10.3390%2fijms22147601&partnerID=40&md5=27d914c871dc5ee2c5feab58737a688c},

doi = {10.3390/ijms22147601},

issn = {16616596},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

journal = {International Journal of Molecular Sciences},

volume = {22},

number = {14},

publisher = {MDPI},

abstract = {During the early developmental stages of grass snakes, within the differentiating pancreas, cords of endocrine cells are formed. They differentiate into agglomerates of large islets flanked throughout subsequent developmental stages by small groups of endocrine cells forming islets. The islets are located within the cephalic part of the dorsal pancreas. At the end of the embryonic period, the pancreatic islet agglomerates branch off, and as a result of their remodeling, surround the splenic “bulb”. The stage of pancreatic endocrine ring formation is the first step in formation of intrasplenic islets characteristics for the adult specimens of the grass snake. The arrangement of endocrine cells within islets changes during pancreas differentiation. Initially, the core of islets formed from B and D cells is surrounded by a cluster of A cells. Subsequently, A, B, and D endocrine cells are mixed throughout the islets. Before grass snake hatching, A and B endocrine cells are intermingled within the islets, but D cells are arranged centrally. Moreover, the pancreatic polypeptide (PP) cells are not found within the embryonic pancreas of the grass snake. Variation in the proportions of different cell types, depending on the part of the pancreas, may affect the islet function—a higher proportion of glucagon cells is beneficial for insulin secretion. © 2021 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85102839215,

title = {Ultrastructural studies of developing egg tooth in grass snake Natrix natrix (Squamata, Serpentes) embryos, supported by X-ray microtomography analysis},

author = { M. Hermyt and B. Metscher and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85102839215&doi=10.1016%2fj.zool.2021.125913&partnerID=40&md5=2ad3cdabe9c6af139c8e8e97a8e21c79},

doi = {10.1016/j.zool.2021.125913},

issn = {09442006},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Zoology},

volume = {146},

publisher = {Elsevier GmbH},

abstract = {The egg tooth development is similar to the development of all the other vertebrate teeth except earliest developmental stages because the egg tooth develops directly from the oral epithelium instead of the dental lamina similarly to null generation teeth. The developing egg tooth of Natrix natrix changes its curvature differently than the egg tooth of the other investigated unidentates due to the presence of the rostral groove. The developing grass snake egg tooth comprises dental pulp and the enamel organ. The fully differentiated enamel organ consists of outer enamel epithelium, stellate reticulum, and ameloblasts in its inner layer. The enamel organ directly in contact with the oral cavity is covered with periderm instead of outer enamel epithelium. Stellate reticulum cells in the grass snake egg tooth share intercellular spaces with the basal part of ameloblasts and are responsible for their nutrition. Ameloblasts during egg tooth differentiation pass through the following stages: presecretory, secretory, and mature. The ameloblasts from the grass snake egg tooth show the same cellular changes as reported during mammalian amelogenesis but are devoid of Tomes’ processes. Odontoblasts of the developing grass snake egg tooth pass through the following classes: pre-odontoblasts, secretory odontoblasts, and ageing odontoblasts. They have highly differentiated secretory apparatus and in the course of their activity accumulate lipofuscin. Grass snake odontoblasts possess processes which are poor in organelles. In developing egg tooth cilia have been identified in odontoblasts, ameloblasts and cells of the stellate reticulum. Dental pulp cells remodel collagen matrix during growth of the grass snake egg tooth. They degenerate in a way previously not described in other teeth. © 2021 Elsevier GmbH},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85097979865,

title = {Structural and ultrastructural studies on the developing vomeronasal sensory epithelium in the grass snake Natrix natrix (Squamata: Colubroidea)},

author = { P. Kaczmarek and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85097979865&doi=10.1002%2fjmor.21311&partnerID=40&md5=89ea58088b9d5a86ea4800860ee7dc09},

doi = {10.1002/jmor.21311},

issn = {03622525},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Morphology},

volume = {282},

number = {3},

pages = {378-407},

publisher = {John Wiley and Sons Inc},

abstract = {The sensory olfactory epithelium and the vomeronasal sensory epithelium (VSE) are characterized by continuous turnover of the receptor cells during postnatal life and are capable of regeneration after injury. The VSE, like the entire vomeronasal organ, is generally well developed in squamates and is crucial for detection of pheromones and prey odors. Despite the numerous studies on embryonic development of the VSE in squamates, especially in snakes, an ultrastructural analysis, as far as we know, has never been performed. Therefore, we investigated the embryology of the VSE of the grass snake (Natrix natrix) using electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and light microscopy. As was shown for adult snakes, the hypertrophied ophidian VSE may provide great resolution of changes in neuron morphology located at various epithelial levels. The results of this study suggest that different populations of stem/progenitor cells occur at the base of the ophidian VSE during embryonic development. One of them may be radial glia-like cells, described previously in mouse. The various structure and ultrastructure of neurons located at different parts of the VSE provide evidence for neuronal maturation and aging. Based on these results, a few nonmutually exclusive hypotheses explaining the formation of the peculiar columnar organization of the VSE in snakes were proposed. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85096809833,

title = {Embryology of the naso-palatal complex in Gekkota based on detailed 3D analysis in Lepidodactylus lugubris and Eublepharis macularius},

author = { P. Kaczmarek and B. Metscher and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85096809833&doi=10.1111%2fjoa.13312&partnerID=40&md5=07232f8d2863e90dc2f668fec062f84c},

doi = {10.1111/joa.13312},

issn = {00218782},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Anatomy},

volume = {238},

number = {2},

pages = {249-287},

publisher = {Blackwell Publishing Ltd},

abstract = {The vomeronasal organ (VNO), nasal cavity, lacrimal duct, choanal groove, and associated parts of the superficial (soft tissue) palate are called the naso-palatal complex. Despite the morphological diversity of the squamate noses, little is known about the embryological basis of this variation. Moreover, developmental data might be especially interesting in light of the morpho-molecular discordance of squamate phylogeny, since a ‘molecular scenario’ implies an occurrence of unexpected scale of homoplasy also in olfactory systems. In this study, we used X-ray microtomography and light microscopy to describe morphogenesis of the naso-palatal complex in two gekkotans: Lepidodactylus lugubris (Gekkonidae) and Eublepharis macularius (Eublepharidae). Our embryological data confirmed recent findings about the nature of some developmental processes in squamates, for example, involvement of the lateral nasal prominence in the formation of the choanal groove. Moreover, our study revealed previously unknown differences between the studied gekkotans and allows us to propose redefinition of the anterior concha of Sphenodon. Interpretation of some described conditions might be problematic in the phylogenetic context, since they represent unknown: squamate, nonophidian squamate, or gekkotan features. © 2020 Anatomical Society},

note = {5},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85089455696,

title = {Do all geckos hatch in the same way? Histological and 3D studies of egg tooth morphogenesis in the geckos Eublepharis macularius Blyth 1854 and Lepidodactylus lugubris Duméril & Bibron 1836},

author = { M. Hermyt and B. Metscher and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85089455696&doi=10.1002%2fjmor.21249&partnerID=40&md5=b211464db5a84eeb88b7bcc3916d2370},

doi = {10.1002/jmor.21249},

issn = {03622525},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Morphology},

volume = {281},

number = {10},

pages = {1313-1327},

publisher = {John Wiley and Sons Inc},

abstract = {The egg tooth of squamates evolved to facilitate hatching from mineralized eggshells. Squamate reptiles can assist their hatching with a single unpaired egg tooth (unidentates) or double egg teeth (geckos and dibamids). Egg tooth ontogeny in two gekkotan species, the leopard gecko Eublepharis macularius and the mourning gecko Lepidodactylus lugubris, was compared using microtomography, scanning electron microscopy, and light microscopy. Investigated species are characterized by different hardnesses of their eggshells. Leopard geckos eggs have a relatively soft and flexible parchment (leathery) shell, while eggshells of mourning geckos are hard and rigid. Embryos of both species, like other Gekkota, have double egg teeth, but the morphology of these structures differs between the investigated species. These differences in shape, localization, and spatial orientation were present from the earliest stages of embryonic development. In mourning gecko, anlagen of differentiating egg teeth change their position on the palate during embryonic development. Initially they are separated by condensed mesenchyme, but later in development, their enamel organs are connected. In leopard geckos, the localization of egg tooth germs does not change, but their spatial orientation does. Egg teeth of this species shift from inward to outward orientation. This is likely related to differences in structure and mechanical properties of eggshells in the studied species. In investigated species, two hatching mechanisms are possible during emergence of young individuals. We speculate that mourning geckos break the eggshell through puncturing action with egg teeth, similar to the pipping phase of chick and turtles embryos. Egg teeth of leopard geckos cut egg membranes similarly to most squamates. Our results also revealed differences in egg tooth implantation between Gekkota and Unidentata: gekkotan egg teeth are subthecodont (in shallow sockets), while those in unidentates are acrodont (attached to the top of the alveolar ridge). © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC},

note = {1},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85092401299,

title = {Development of the squamate naso-palatal complex: Detailed 3D analysis of the vomeronasal organ and nasal cavity in the brown anole Anolis sagrei (Squamata: Iguania)},

author = { P. Kaczmarek and K. Janiszewska and B. Metscher and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85092401299&doi=10.1186%2fs12983-020-00369-7&partnerID=40&md5=94bad386e477d48a3fb7c39b102569b2},

doi = {10.1186/s12983-020-00369-7},

issn = {17429994},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Frontiers in Zoology},

volume = {17},

number = {1},

publisher = {BioMed Central Ltd},

abstract = {Background: Despite the diverse morphology of the adult squamate naso-palatal complex - consisting of the nasal cavity, vomeronasal organ (VNO), choanal groove, lacrimal duct and superficial palate - little is known about the embryology of these structures. Moreover, there are no comprehensive studies concerning development of the nasal cavity and VNO in relation to the superficial palate. In this investigation, we used X-ray microtomography and histological sections to describe embryonic development of the naso-palatal complex of iguanian lizard, the brown anole (Anolis sagrei). The purpose of the study was to describe the mechanism of formation of adult morphology in this species, which combines the peculiar anole features with typical iguanian conditions. Considering the uncertain phylogenetic position of the Iguania within Squamata, embryological data and future comparative studies may shed new light on the evolution of this large squamate clade. Results: Development of the naso-palatal complex was divided into three phases: early, middle and late. In the early developmental phase, the vomeronasal pit originates from medial outpocketing of the nasal pit, when the facial prominences are weakly developed. In the middle developmental phase, the following events can be noted: the formation of the frontonasal mass, separation of the vestibulum, appearance of the lacrimal duct, and formation of the choanal groove, which leads to separation of the VNO from the nasal cavity. In late development, the nasal cavity and the VNO attain their adult morphology. The lacrimal duct establishes an extensive connection with the choanal groove, which eventually becomes largely separated from the oral cavity. Conclusions: Unlike in other tetrapods, the primordium of the lacrimal duct in the brown anole develops largely beyond the nasolacrimal groove. In contrast to previous studies on squamates, the maxillary prominence is found to participate in the initial fusion with the frontonasal mass. Moreover, formation of the choanal groove occurs due to the fusion of the vomerine cushion to the subconchal fold, rather than to the choanal fold. The loss or significant reduction of the lateral nasal concha is secondary. Some features of anole adult morphology, such as the closure of the choanal groove, may constitute adaptations to vomeronasal chemoreception. © 2020 The Author(s).},

note = {5},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85079451139,

title = {Squamate egg tooth development revisited using three-dimensional reconstructions of brown anole (Anolis sagrei, Squamata, Dactyloidae) dentition},

author = { M. Hermyt and K. Janiszewska and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85079451139&doi=10.1111%2fjoa.13166&partnerID=40&md5=23fa2ce86ea704cfae5532bbbb6a523f},

doi = {10.1111/joa.13166},

issn = {00218782},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Anatomy},

volume = {236},

number = {6},

pages = {1004-1020},

publisher = {Blackwell Publishing Ltd},

abstract = {The egg tooth is a hatching adaptation, characteristic of all squamates. In brown anole embryos, the first tooth that starts differentiating is the egg tooth. It develops from a single tooth germ and, similar to the regular dentition of all the other vertebrates, the differentiating egg tooth of the brown anole passes through classic morphological and developmental stages named according to the shape of the dental epithelium: epithelial thickening, dental lamina, tooth bud, cap and bell stages. The differentiating egg tooth consists of three parts: the enamel organ, hard tissues and dental pulp. Shortly before hatching, the egg tooth connects with the premaxilla. Attachment tissue of the egg tooth does not undergo mineralization, which makes it different from the other teeth of most squamates. After hatching, odontoclasts are involved in resorption of the egg tooth's remains. This study shows that the brown anole egg tooth does not completely conform to previous reports describing iguanomorph egg teeth and reveals a need to investigate its development in the context of squamate phylogeny. © 2020 Anatomical Society},

note = {7},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85074968598,

title = {Development of pancreatic acini in embryos of the grass snake Natrix natrix (Lepidosauria, Serpentes)},

author = { M. Kowalska and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85074968598&doi=10.1002%2fjmor.21083&partnerID=40&md5=1f685f56b11f1dba13de3f9cc50cdd91},

doi = {10.1002/jmor.21083},

issn = {03622525},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Morphology},

volume = {281},

number = {1},

pages = {110-121},

publisher = {John Wiley and Sons Inc.},

abstract = {This study report about the differentiation of pancreatic acinar tissue in grass snake, Natrix natrix, embryos using light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and immuno-gold labeling. Differentiation of acinar cells in the embryonic pancreas of the grass snake is similar to that of other amniotes. Pancreatic acini occurred for the first time at Stage VIII, which is the midpoint of embryonic development. Two pattern of acinar cell differentiation were observed. The first involved formation of zymogen granules followed by cell migration from ducts. In the second, one zymogen granule was formed at the end of acinar cell differentiation. During embryonic development in the pancreatic acini of N. natrix, five types of zymogen granules were established, which correlated with the degree of their maturation and condensation. Within differentiating acini of the studied species, three types of cells were present: acinar, centroacinar, and endocrine cells. The origin of acinar cells as well as centroacinar cells in the pancreas of the studied species was the pancreatic ducts, which is similar as in other vertebrates. In the differentiating pancreatic acini of N. natrix, intermediate cells were not present. It may be related to the lack of transdifferentiation activity of acinar cells in the studied species. Amylase activity of exocrine pancreas was detected only at the end of embryonic development, which may be related to animal feeding after hatching from external sources that are rich in carbohydrates and presence of digestive enzymes in the egg yolk. Mitotic division of acinar cells was the main mechanism of expansion of acinar tissue during pancreas differentiation in the grass snake embryos. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.},

note = {4},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85057717468,

title = {Development of endocrine pancreatic islets in embryos of the grass snake Natrix natrix (Lepidosauria, Serpentes)},

author = { M. Kowalska and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85057717468&doi=10.1002%2fjmor.20921&partnerID=40&md5=dcc2083d3c63dc576cab6f20d320812b},

doi = {10.1002/jmor.20921},

issn = {03622525},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Morphology},

volume = {280},

number = {1},

pages = {103-118},

publisher = {John Wiley and Sons Inc.},

abstract = {Differentiation of the pancreatic islets in grass snake Natrix natrix embryos, was analyzed using light, transmission electron microscopy, and immuno-gold labeling. The study focuses on the origin of islets, mode of islet formation, and cell arrangement within islets. Two waves of pancreatic islet formation in grass snake embryos were described. The first wave begins just after egg laying when precursors of endocrine cells located within large cell agglomerates in the dorsal pancreatic bud differentiate. The large cell agglomerates were divided by mesenchymal cells thus forming the first islets. This mode of islet formation is described as fission. During the second wave of pancreatic islet formation which is related to the formation of the duct mantle, we observed four phases of islet formation: (a) differentiation of individual endocrine cells from the progenitor layer of duct walls (budding) and their incomplete delamination; (b) formation of two types of small groups of endocrine cells (A/D and B) in the wall of pancreatic ducts; (c) joining groups of cells emerging from neighboring ducts (fusion) and rearrangement of cells within islets; (d) differentiated pancreatic islets with characteristic arrangement of endocrine cells. Mature pancreatic islets of the grass snake contained mainly A endocrine cells. Single B and D or PP–cells were present at the periphery of the islets. This arrangement of endocrine cells within pancreatic islets of the grass snake differs from that reported from most others vertebrate species. Endocrine cells in the pancreas of grass snake embryos were also present in the walls of intralobular and intercalated ducts. At hatching, some endocrine cells were in contact with the lumen of the pancreatic ducts. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.},

note = {3},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85042195388,

title = {Development of the duct system during exocrine pancreas differentiation in the grass snake Natrix natrix (Lepidosauria, Serpentes)},

author = { M. Kowalska and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85042195388&doi=10.1002%2fjmor.20806&partnerID=40&md5=e83d21d8301f76949b980279e6d18ab7},

doi = {10.1002/jmor.20806},

issn = {03622525},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Morphology},

volume = {279},

number = {6},

pages = {724-746},

publisher = {John Wiley and Sons Inc.},

abstract = {We analyzed the development of the pancreatic ducts in grass snake Natrix natrix L. embryos with special focus on the three-dimensional (3D)-structure of the duct network, ultrastructural differentiation of ducts with attention to cell types and lumen formation. Our results indicated that the system of ducts in the embryonic pancreas of the grass snake can be divided into extralobular, intralobular, and intercalated ducts, similarly as in other vertebrate species. However, the pattern of branching was different from that in other vertebrates, which was related to the specific topography of the snake's internal organs. The process of duct remodeling in Natrix embryos began when the duct walls started to change from multilayered to single-layered and ended together with tube formation. It began in the dorsal pancreatic bud and proceeded toward the caudal direction. The lumen of pancreatic ducts differentiated by cavitation because a population of centrally located cells was cleared through cell death resembling anoikis. During embryonic development in the pancreatic duct walls of the grass snake four types of cells were present, that is, principal, endocrine, goblet, and basal cells, which is different from other vertebrate species. The principal cells were electron-dense, contained indented nuclei with abundant heterochromatin, microvilli and cilia, and were connected by interdigitations of lateral membranes and junctional complexes. The endocrine cells were electron-translucent and some of them included endocrine granules. The goblet cells were filled with large granules with nonhomogeneous, moderately electron-dense material. The basal cells were small, electron-dense, and did not reach the duct lumen. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.},

note = {4},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85034220441,

title = {Ultrastructure of endocrine pancreatic granules during pancreatic differentiation in the grass snake, Natrix natrix L. (Lepidosauria, Serpentes)},

author = { M. Kowalska and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85034220441&doi=10.1002%2fjmor.20775&partnerID=40&md5=209b09e79fe0a39e8414e6373be3ca69},

doi = {10.1002/jmor.20775},

issn = {03622525},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Morphology},

volume = {279},

number = {3},

pages = {330-348},

publisher = {John Wiley and Sons Inc.},

abstract = {We used transmission electron microscopy to study the pancreatic main endocrine cell types in the embryos of the grass snake Natrix natrix L. with focus on the morphology of their secretory granules. The embryonic endocrine part of the pancreas in the grass snake contains four main types of cells (A; B; D; and PP), which is similar to other vertebrates. The B granules contained a moderately electron-dense crystalline-like core that was polygonal in shape and an electron-dense outer zone. The A granules had a spherical electron-dense eccentrically located core and a moderately electron-dense outer zone. The D granules were filled with a moderately electron-dense non-homogeneous content. The PP granules had a spherical electron-dense core with an electron translucent outer zone. Within the main types of granules (A; B; D; PP), different morphological subtypes were recognized that indicated their maturity, which may be related to the different content of these granules during the process of maturation. The sequence of pancreatic endocrine cell differentiation in grass snake embryos differs from that in many vertebrates. In the grass snake embryos, the B and D cells differentiated earlier than A and PP cells. The different sequence of endocrine cell differentiation in snakes and other vertebrates has been related to phylogenetic position and nutrition during early developmental stages. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.},

note = {3},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84994796550,

title = {Does the grass snake (Natrix natrix) (Squamata: Serpentes: Natricinae) fit the amniotes-specific model of myogenesis?},

author = { D. Lewandowski and M. Dubińska-Magiera and E. Posyniak and W. Rupik and M. Daczewska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84994796550&doi=10.1007%2fs00709-016-1040-5&partnerID=40&md5=707e48da31cd24d949a86b47272768b9},

doi = {10.1007/s00709-016-1040-5},

issn = {0033183X},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Protoplasma},

volume = {254},

number = {4},

pages = {1507-1516},

publisher = {Springer-Verlag Wien},

abstract = {In the grass snake (Natrix natrix), the newly developed somites form vesicles that are located on both sides of the neural tube. The walls of the vesicles are composed of tightly connected epithelial cells surrounding the cavity (the somitocoel). Also, in the newly formed somites, the Pax3 protein can be observed in the somite wall cells. Subsequently, the somite splits into three compartments: the sclerotome, dermomyotome (with the dorsomedial [DM] and the ventrolateral [VL] lips) and the myotome. At this stage, the Pax3 protein is detected in both the DM and VL lips of the dermomyotome and in the mononucleated cells of the myotome, whereas the Pax7 protein is observed in the medial part of the dermomyotome and in some of the mononucleated cells of the myotome. The mononucleated cells then become elongated and form myotubes. As myogenesis proceeds, the myotome is filled with multinucleated myotubes accompanied by mononucleated, Pax7-positive cells (satellite cells) that are involved in muscle growth. The Pax3-positive progenitor muscle cells are no longer observed. Moreover, we have observed unique features in the differentiation of the muscles in these snakes. Specifically, our studies have revealed the presence of two classes of muscles in the myotomes. The first class is characterised by fast muscle fibres, with myofibrils equally distributed throughout the sarcoplasm. In the second class, composed of slow muscle fibres, the sarcoplasm is filled with lipid droplets. We assume that their storage could play a crucial role during hibernation in the adult snakes. We suggest that the model of myotomal myogenesis in reptiles, birds and mammals shows the same morphological and molecular character. We therefore believe that the grass snake, in spite of the unique features of its myogenesis, fits into the amniotes-specific model of trunk muscle development. © 2016, The Author(s).},

note = {8},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85007246649,

title = {Three-dimensional reconstruction of the embryonic pancreas in the grass snake Natrix natrix L. (Lepidosauria, Serpentes) based on histological studies},

author = { M. Kowalska and M. Hermyt and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85007246649&doi=10.1016%2fj.zool.2016.11.001&partnerID=40&md5=52e8d777d89953be1011a672b2e37199},

doi = {10.1016/j.zool.2016.11.001},

issn = {09442006},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Zoology},

volume = {121},

pages = {91-110},

publisher = {Elsevier GmbH},

abstract = {The aim of this study was to evaluate two research hypotheses: H0–the embryonic pancreas in grass snakes develops in the same manner as in all previously investigated amniotes (from three buds) and its topographical localization within the adult body has no relation to its development; H1–the pancreas develops in a different manner and is related to the different topography of internal organs in snakes. For the evaluation of these hypotheses we used histological methods and three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions of the position of the pancreatic buds and surrounding organs at particular developmental stages and of the final position and shape of the pancreatic gland. Our results indicate that the pancreas primordium in the grass snake is formed by only two buds – a dorsal and a ventral one – that are not connected until the end of stage II. This differs from the majority of vertebrates investigated so far. The gall bladder of the grass snake embryos is connected with the liver only by a thin cystic duct, which also differs from many other vertebrates. Our histological study also indicates a different distribution of the endocrine cells in the embryonic pancreas of the grass snake because the first endocrine cells appeared in the dorsal part of the pancreas in a region located close to the spleen. During the entire developmental period no evidence of these cells was found in the ventral part of the pancreas. The endocrine cells form elongated, large and irregular-shaped islets. They can also form structures resembling “inverted acini”. Such an arrangement is characteristic of snakes only. The differentiating pancreas penetrates the ventral part of the developing spleen and divides it into three separate parts at developmental stage IX. This is unique among vertebrates. At the end of the embryonic development (stage XI), the pancreas, the spleen and the gall bladder are located in close proximity and form the so-called triad. Our results suggest that the untypical topography of the organ systems in snakes may determine the unique development of the pancreas in these animals. © 2016 Elsevier GmbH},

note = {10},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85010216381,

title = {Embryology of the VNO and associated structures in the grass snake Natrix natrix (Squamata: Naticinae): A 3D perspective},

author = { P. Kaczmarek and M. Hermyt and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85010216381&doi=10.1186%2fs12983-017-0188-y&partnerID=40&md5=41aebf272b4442ac73053c490d8f7c8b},

doi = {10.1186/s12983-017-0188-y},

issn = {17429994},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Frontiers in Zoology},

volume = {14},

number = {1},

publisher = {BioMed Central Ltd.},

abstract = {Background: Snakes are considered to be vomerolfaction specialists. They are members of one of the most diverse groups of vertebrates, Squamata. The vomeronasal organ and the associated structures (such as the lacrimal duct; choanal groove; lamina transversalis anterior and cupola Jacobsoni) of adult lizards and snakes have received much anatomical, histological, physiological and behavioural attention. However, only limited embryological investigation into these structures, constrained to some anatomical or cellular studies and brief surveys, has been carried out thus far. The purpose of this study was, first, to examine the embryonic development of the vomeronasal organ and the associated structures in the grass snake (Natrix natrix), using three-dimensional reconstructions based on histological studies, and, second, to compare the obtained results with those presented in known publications on other snakes and lizards. Results: Five major developmental processes were taken into consideration in this study: separation of the vomeronasal organ from the nasal cavity and its specialization, development of the mushroom body, formation of the lacrimal duct, development of the cupola Jacobsoni and its relation to the vomeronasal nerve, and specialization of the sensory epithelium. Our visualizations showed the VNO in relation to the nasal cavity, choanal groove, lacrimal duct and cupola Jacobsoni at different embryonic stages. We confirmed that the choanal groove disappears gradually, which indicates that this structure is absent in adult grass snakes. On our histological sections, we observed a gradual growth in the height of the columns of the vomeronasal sensory epithelium and widening of the spaces between them. Conclusions: The main ophidian taxa (Scolecophidia; Henophidia and Caenophidia), just like other squamate clades, seem to be evolutionarily conservative at some levels with respect to the VNO and associated structures morphology. Thus, it was possible to homologize certain embryonic levels of the anatomical and histological complexity, observed in the grass snake, with adult conditions of certain groups of Squamata. This may reflect evolutionary shift in Squamata from visually oriented predators to vomerolfaction specialists. Our descriptions offer material useful for future comparative studies of Squamata, both at their anatomical and histological levels. © 2017 The Author(s).},

note = {14},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-85001013353,

title = {Development of the egg tooth – The tool facilitating hatching of squamates: Lessons from the grass snake Natrix natrix},

author = { M. Hermyt and P. Kaczmarek and M. Kowalska and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85001013353&doi=10.1016%2fj.jcz.2016.11.001&partnerID=40&md5=9b619f3b9c90ec4f8ccb6e7c204049ae},

doi = {10.1016/j.jcz.2016.11.001},

issn = {00445231},

year  = {2017},

date = {2017-01-01},

journal = {Zoologischer Anzeiger},

volume = {266},

pages = {61-70},

publisher = {Elsevier GmbH},

abstract = {Most embryos of squamates use their egg tooth to facilitate hatching when their development is completed. After they are out of the shell, this tooth is shed and, in the case, of the grass snake (Natrix natrix), not replaced by a successor teeth. The structure of this transient tooth resembles the development and histology of the regular teeth of vertebrates. Morphological, histological and scanning electron microscopic observations indicated that the egg tooth of the grass snake has four developmental phases. Like the teeth of other vertebrate species, it undergoes oral epithelium thickening as well as the bud, cap and bell phases. However, due to the specialised function it performs, the egg tooth differs significantly from the other teeth both in its morphology and development. The egg tooth of Natrix natrix embryos is an unpaired true tooth, as in most squamates. Our study indicated that the egg tooth started its development in the rostral part of the snout by the thickening of the oral epithelium and there was a condensation of mesenchyme underneath it. It formed very early, around developmental stage III, at approximately the same time as the null-generation teeth. After the thickening of the oral epithelium, only one tooth germ is formed, in contrast to lizards in which two germs can be observed during their embryonic life; however, in the course of development, one regressed and the other shifted into the midline position and developed into the functional egg tooth. The next step in the egg tooth development was the differentiation of the enamel organ and the dental papilla. Three layers of the enamel organ developed – the inner enamel epithelium, the stellate reticulum and the outer enamel epithelium, while a superficial layer of the dental papilla differentiated into the odontoblasts. The egg tooth was ready to erupt when its development ended at developmental stage XII, after the hard tissues developed. © 2016 Elsevier GmbH},

note = {15},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84959522869,

title = {Ultrastructural features of the differentiating thyroid primordium in the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis L.) from the differentiation of the cellular cords to the formation of the follicular lumen},

author = { W. Rupik and M. Kowalska and E. Swadźba and R. Maślak},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84959522869&doi=10.1016%2fj.zool.2015.12.005&partnerID=40&md5=fa1c760500363c79738b246a51192d88},

doi = {10.1016/j.zool.2015.12.005},

issn = {09442006},

year  = {2016},

date = {2016-01-01},

journal = {Zoology},

volume = {119},

number = {2},

pages = {97-112},

publisher = {Elsevier GmbH},

abstract = {The differentiation of the thyroid primordium of lacertilian species is poorly understood. The present study reports on the ultrastructural analysis of the developing thyroid primordium in the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) during the early stages of differentiation. The early thyroid primordium of sand lizard embryos was composed of cellular cords that contained single cells with a giant lipid droplet, which were eliminated by specific autophagy (lipophagy). The follicular lumens at the periphery of the primordium differentiated even before the division of the cellular cords. When the single cells within the cords started to die through paraptosis, the adjacent cells started to polarise and junctional complexes began to form around them. After polarisation and clearing up after the formation of the lumens, the cellular cords divided into definitive follicles. The cellular cords in the central part of the primordium started to differentiate later than those at the periphery. The cellular cords divided into presumptive follicles first and only later differentiated into definitive follicles. During this process, a population of centrally located cells was removed through apoptosis to form the lumen. Although the follicular lumen in sand lizard embryos is differentiated by cavitation similar to that in the grass snake, there were very important differences during the early stages of the differentiation of the cellular cords and the formation of the thyroid follicles. © 2016 Elsevier GmbH.},

note = {9},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84959890327,

title = {Unique features of myogenesis in Egyptian cobra (Naja haje) (Squamata: Serpentes: Elapidae)},

author = { E.R. Khannoon and W. Rupik and D. Lewandowski and M. Dubińska-Magiera and E. Swadźba and M. Daczewska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84959890327&doi=10.1007%2fs00709-015-0840-3&partnerID=40&md5=e565c56efe1d61940459c83c1dab6cdf},

doi = {10.1007/s00709-015-0840-3},

issn = {0033183X},

year  = {2016},

date = {2016-01-01},

journal = {Protoplasma},

volume = {253},

number = {2},

pages = {625-633},

publisher = {Springer-Verlag Wien},

abstract = {During early stages of myotomal myogenesis, the myotome of Egyptian cobra (Naja haje) is composed of homogenous populations of mononucleated primary myotubes. At later developmental phase, primary myotubes are accompanied by closely adhering mononucleated cells. Based on localization and morphology, we assume that mononucleated cells share features with satellite cells involved in muscle growth. An indirect morphological evidence of the fusion of mononucleated cells with myotubes is the presence of numerous vesicles in the subsarcolemmal region of myotubes adjacent to mononucleated cell. As differentiation proceeded, secondary muscle fibres appeared with considerably smaller diameter as compared to primary muscle fibre. Studies on N. haje myotomal myogenesis revealed some unique features of muscle differentiation. TEM analysis showed in the N. haje myotomes two classes of muscle fibres. The first class was characterized by typical for fast muscle fibres regular distribution of myofibrils which fill the whole volume of muscle fibre sarcoplasm. White muscle fibres in studied species were a prominent group of muscles in the myotome. The second class showed tightly paced myofibrils surrounding the centrally located nucleus accompanied by numerous vesicles of different diameter. The sarcoplasm of these cells was characterized by numerous lipid droplets. Based on morphological features, we believe that muscle capable of lipid storage belong to slow muscle fibres and the presence of lipid droplets in the sarcoplasm of these muscles during myogenesis might be a crucial adaptive mechanisms for subsequent hibernation in adults. This phenomenon was, for the first time, described in studies on N. haje myogenesis. © 2015, The Author(s).},

note = {7},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84947054429,

title = {Congenital Tick Borne Diseases: Is This An Alternative Route of Transmission of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Mammals?},

author = { K.P. Jasik and H. Okła and J. Słodki and B. Rozwadowska and A. Słodki and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84947054429&doi=10.1089%2fvbz.2015.1815&partnerID=40&md5=161e2011a512a32d3cf18f21a1af0bdc},

doi = {10.1089/vbz.2015.1815},

issn = {15303667},

year  = {2015},

date = {2015-01-01},

journal = {Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases},

volume = {15},

number = {11},

pages = {637-644},

publisher = {Mary Ann Liebert Inc.},

abstract = {Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) have become a popular topic in many medical journals. Besides the obvious participation of ticks in the transmission of pathogens that cause TBD, little is written about alternative methods of their spread. An important role is played in this process by mammals, which serve as reservoirs. Transplacental transfer also plays important role in the spread of some TBD etiological agents. Reservoir species take part in the spread of pathogens, a phenomenon that has extreme importance in synanthropic environments. Animals that accompany humans and animals migrating from wild lands to urban areas increase the probability of pathogen infections by ticks This article provides an overview of TBDs, such as tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), and TBDs caused by spirochetes, α-proteobacteria, γ-proteobacteria, and Apicomplexa, with particular attention to reports about their potential to cross the maternal placenta. For each disease, the method of propagation, symptoms of acute and chronic phase, and complications of their course in adults, children, and animals are described in detail. Additional information about transplacental transfer of these pathogens, effects of congenital diseases caused by them, and the possible effects of maternal infection to the fetus are also discussed. The problem of vertical transmission of pathogens presents a new challenge for medicine. Transfer of pathogens through the placenta may lead not only to propagation of diseases in the population, but also constitute a direct threat to health and fetal development. For this reason, the problem of vertical transmission requires more attention and an estimation of the impact of placental transfer for each of listed pathogens. Copyright 2015, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.},

note = {8},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84941261199,

title = {Ultrastructural analysis of apoptosis and autophagy in the midgut epithelium of Piscicola geometra (Annelida, Hirudinida) after blood feeding},

author = { M.M. Rost-Roszkowska and P. Świątek and I. Poprawa and W. Rupik and E. Swadźba and M. Kszuk-Jendrysik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84941261199&doi=10.1007%2fs00709-015-0774-9&partnerID=40&md5=d95bf7417e87113a7f5110757a8a41ef},

doi = {10.1007/s00709-015-0774-9},

issn = {0033183X},

year  = {2015},

date = {2015-01-01},

journal = {Protoplasma},

volume = {252},

number = {5},

pages = {1387-1396},

publisher = {Springer-Verlag Wien},

abstract = {Cell death in the endodermal region of the digestive tract of the blood-feeding leech Piscicola geometra was analyzed using light and transmission electron microscopes and the fluorescence method. Sexually mature specimens of P. geometra were bred under laboratory conditions and fed on Danio rerio. After copulation, the specimens laid cocoons. The material for our studies were non-feeding juveniles collected just after hatching, non-feeding adult specimens, and leeches that had been fed with fish blood (D. rerio) only once ad libitum. The fed leeches were prepared for our studies during feeding and after 1, 3, 7, and 14 days (not sexually mature specimens) and some weeks after feeding (the sexually mature). Autophagy in all regions of the endodermal part of the digestive system, including the esophagus, the crop, the posterior crop caecum (PCC), and the intestine was observed in the adult non-feeding and feeding specimens. In fed specimens, autophagy occurred at very high levels—in 80 to 90 % of epithelial cells in all four regions. In contrast, in adult specimens that did not feed, this process occurred at much lower levels—about 10 % (esophagus and intestine) and about 30 % (crop and PCC) of the midgut epithelial cells. Apoptosis occurred in the feeding adult specimens but only in the crop and PCC. However, it was absent in the non-feeding adult specimens and the specimens that were collected during feeding. Moreover, neither autophagy nor apoptosis were observed in the juvenile, non-feeding specimens. The appearance of autophagy and apoptosis was connected with feeding on toxic blood. We concluded that autophagy played the role of a survival factor and was involved in the protection of the epithelium against the products of blood digestion. Quantitative analysis was prepared to determine the number of autophagic and apoptotic cells. © 2015, The Author(s).},

note = {7},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84870724072,

title = {Ultrastructural studies of cilia formation during thyroid gland differentiation in grass snake embryos},

author = { W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84870724072&doi=10.1016%2fj.micron.2012.06.013&partnerID=40&md5=c4f4db26c7393091d27b7e17ad12fefa},

doi = {10.1016/j.micron.2012.06.013},

issn = {09684328},

year  = {2013},

date = {2013-01-01},

journal = {Micron},

volume = {44},

number = {1},

pages = {228-237},

abstract = {The process of ciliogenesis that accompanies the differentiation of the thyroid gland in grass snake Natrix natrix L. embryos was studied ultrastructurally. Based on this study, it can be concluded that the ciliogenesis occurred in two waves and that new centrioles duplicated via centriolar pathways. The first wave of ciliogenesis started in the post-mitotic thyrocytes before their polarisation. It ended approximately halfway through the developmental period. The second wave of ciliogenesis took place after the polarization of thyrocytes and before the resting phase of the embryonic thyroid. This wave of ciliogenesis stopped shortly before hatching when fully differentiated thyrocytes restarted their activity. During the first half of thyroid differentiation, the cilia were formed "intracellularly" but during the second half, they differentiated "extracellularly" In the differentiating thyrocytes one cilium per cell was found; however, it could not be excluded that more than one cilium per cell may be formed. These cilia lacked central fibres and therefore they had a 9. +. 0 formula that suggested that they were immotile. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd.},

note = {13},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84870240362,

title = {Hollowing or cavitation during follicular lumen formation in the differentiating thyroid of grass snake Natrix natrix L. (Lepidosauria, Serpentes) embryos? An ultrastructural study},

author = { W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84870240362&doi=10.1016%2fj.zool.2012.07.001&partnerID=40&md5=47187cb2c2989474d94aee840b6fc5d7},

doi = {10.1016/j.zool.2012.07.001},

issn = {09442006},

year  = {2012},

date = {2012-01-01},

journal = {Zoology},

volume = {115},

number = {6},

pages = {389-397},

abstract = {The mechanism of follicular lumen differentiation during thyroid gland morphogenesis in vertebrate classes is still unclear and the current knowledge regarding the origin and the mechanism of follicular lumen formation during thyroid differentiation in reptiles is especially poor. The present study reports on an ultrastructural investigation of thyroid follicle formation and follicular lumen differentiation in grass snake (Natrix natrix L.) embryos. The results of this study show that the earliest morphogenesis of the presumptive thyroid follicles in grass snake embryos appears to be similar to that described in embryos of other vertebrate classes; however, differences appeared during the later stages of its differentiation when the follicular lumen was formed. The follicular lumen in grass snake embryos was differentiated by cavitation; during thyroid follicle formation, a population of centrally located cells was cleared through apoptosis to form the lumen. This manner of follicular lumen differentiation indicates that it has an extracellular origin. It cannot be excluded that other types of programmed cell death also occur during follicular lumen formation in this snake species. © 2012 Elsevier GmbH.},

note = {11},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84866267995,

title = {Reptilian myotomal myogenesis-lessons from the sand lizard Lacerta agilis L. (Reptilia, Lacertidae)Update},

author = { W. Rupik and E. Swadźba and M. Dubińska-Magiera and I. Jedrzejowska and M. Daczewska},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84866267995&doi=10.1016%2fj.zool.2012.04.002&partnerID=40&md5=d3e0004b14c7cc9346ffed6ded146bf7},

doi = {10.1016/j.zool.2012.04.002},

issn = {09442006},

year  = {2012},

date = {2012-01-01},

journal = {Zoology},

volume = {115},

number = {5},

pages = {330-338},

abstract = {Reptilian myotomal myogenesis is poorly understood. This paper reports on structural, ultrastructural and immunocytochemical studies of muscle differentiation in sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) embryos. During somitogenesis, the somites are composed of epithelial vesicles with a centrally located somitocoel. At later developmental stages the ventral portion of the somite cortex disaggregates into the sclerotome mesenchyme, while the dorsal wall of the somite differentiates into dermomyotome. At these developmental stages, mononucleated cells of the dermomyotome are Pax3-positive. The dermomyotome layer forms the dorsomedial and ventromedial lips. The myotome is first composed of mono- and then of multinucleated myotubes and small mononucleated cells that occur in the vicinity of the myotubes. These mononucleated cells exhibit low proliferative potential as revealed by the use of PCNA antibody. At subsequent stages of myogenesis the mononucleated cells express Pax7 protein, a marker of satellite cells, and assume ultrastructural features characteristic of satellite cells. Some of the mononucleated cells contribute to muscle growth, being involved in fusion with differentiating muscle fibers. This study revealed similarities of myotomal myogenesis in reptiles to that of other vertebrates. © 2012 Elsevier GmbH.},

note = {12},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-84855311493,

title = {Cross-immunoreactivity between the LH1 antibody and cytokeratin epitopes in the differentiating epidermis of embryos of the grass snake Natrix natrix L. during the end stages of embryogenesis},

author = { E. Swadźba and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84855311493&doi=10.1007%2fs00709-010-0259-9&partnerID=40&md5=cbf3c9dfb840a5e6af12f597f7fa4679},

doi = {10.1007/s00709-010-0259-9},

issn = {0033183X},

year  = {2012},

date = {2012-01-01},

journal = {Protoplasma},

volume = {249},

number = {1},

pages = {31-42},

abstract = {The monoclonal anti-cytokeratin 1/10 (LH1) antibody recognizing K1/K10 keratin epitopes that characterizes a keratinized epidermis of mammals cross-reacts with the beta and Oberhäutchen layers covering the scales and gastrosteges of grass snake embryos during the final period of epidermis differentiation. The immunolocalization of the anti-cytokeratin 1/10 (LH1) antibody appears in the beta layer of the epidermis, covering the outer surface of the gastrosteges at the beginning of developmental stage XI, and in the beta layer of the epidermis, covering the outer surface of the scales at the end of developmental stage XI. This antibody cross-reacts with the Oberhäutchen layers in the epidermis covering the outer surface of both scales and gastrosteges at developmental stages XI and XII just before its fusion with the beta layers. After fusion of the Oberhäutchen and beta layers, LH1 immunolabeling is weaker than before. This might suggest that alpha-keratins in these layers of the epidermis are masked by beta-keratins, modified, or degraded. The anti-cytokeratin 1/10 (LH1) antibody stains the Oberhäutchen layer in the epidermis covering the inner surface of the gastrosteges and the hinge regions between gastrosteges at the end of developmental stage XI. However, the Oberhäutchen of the epidermis covering the inner surfaces of the scales and the hinge regions between scales does not show cytokeratin 1/10 (LH1) immunolabeling until hatching. This cross-reactivity suggests that the beta and Oberhäutchen layers probably contain some alpha-keratins that react with the LH1 antibody. It is possible that these alpha-keratins create specific scaffolding for the latest beta-keratin deposition. It is also possible that the LH1 antibody cross-reacts with other epidermal proteins such as filament-associated proteins, i. e., filaggrin-like. The anti-cytokeratin 1/10 (LH1) antibody does not stain the alpha and mesos layers until hatching. We suppose that the differentiation of these layers will begin just after the first postnatal sloughing. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.},

note = {17},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-80051576970,

title = {Cellular organisation of the mature testes and stages of spermiogenesis in Danio rerio (Cyprinidae; Teleostei)-Structural and ultrastructural studies},

author = { W. Rupik and J. Huszno and J. Klag},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-80051576970&doi=10.1016%2fj.micron.2011.05.006&partnerID=40&md5=97a3c71d1ff8e774f1f4493a15669b9c},

doi = {10.1016/j.micron.2011.05.006},

issn = {09684328},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Micron},

volume = {42},

number = {8},

pages = {833-839},

abstract = {The male gonads of Danio rerio occupy a position typical of the Teleostei species. The structure of the testes corresponds to the anastomosing tubular type with unrestricted spermatogonia and represents a cystic type of spermatogenesis. The results of this study indicate that four distinct stages of cell differentiation can be identified during spermiogenesis. These stages are characterised by chromatin condensation, the development of flagellum, nuclear rotation, the formation of nuclear fossa and the elimination of excess cytoplasm. A round head and the absence of an acrosome characterise the differentiated sperm. The midpiece is short and large, and C-shaped mitochondria form a ring surrounding the initial region of the flagellum. The axoneme shows a 9. +. 2 pattern. In the D. rerio spermatozoa the flagellar axis is at an angle of 110° to the nucleus diameter running through the centriole. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd.},

note = {30},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-80053442442,

title = {Structural and ultrastructural differentiation of the thyroid gland during embryogenesis in the grass snake Natrix natrix L. (Lepidosauria, Serpentes)},

author = { W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-80053442442&doi=10.1016%2fj.zool.2011.05.002&partnerID=40&md5=dafda8ae33441e3c97dd377461c43221},

doi = {10.1016/j.zool.2011.05.002},

issn = {09442006},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Zoology},

volume = {114},

number = {5},

pages = {284-297},

abstract = {The differentiation of the thyroid primordium of reptilian species is poorly understood. The present study reports on structural and ultrastructural studies of the developing thyroid gland in embryos of the grass snake Natrix natrix L. At the time of oviposition, the thyroid primordium occupied its final position in the embryos. Throughout developmental stages I-IV, the undifferentiated thyroid primordium contained cellular cords, and the plasma membranes of adjacent cells formed junctional complexes. Subsequently, the first follicular lumens started to form. The follicular lumens were of intracellular origin, as in other vertebrate species, but the mechanism of their formation is as yet unclear. At developmental stages V-VI, the thyroid anlage was composed of small follicles with lumens and cellular cords. Cells of the thyroid primordium divided, and follicles were filled with a granular substance. At developmental stage VI, the cells surrounding the follicular lumen were polarized, the apical cytoplasm contained dark granules and the Golgi complex and the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) developed gradually. Resorption of the colloid began at developmental stage VIII. At the end of this stage, the embryonic thyroid gland was surrounded by a definitive capsule. During developmental stages IX-X, the follicular cells contained granules and vesicles of different sizes and electron densities and a well-developed Golgi apparatus and RER. At developmental stage XI, most follicles were outlined by squamous epithelial cells and presented wide lumens filled with a light colloid. The Golgi complex and RER showed changes in their morphology indicating a decrease in the activity of the thyroid gland. At developmental stage XII, the activity of the embryonic thyroid gradually increased, and at the time of hatching, it exhibited the features of a fully active gland. © 2011 Elsevier GmbH.},

note = {20},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-79957610182,

title = {The expression patterns of heat shock genes and proteins and their role during vertebrate's development},

author = { W. Rupik and K.P. Jasik and J. Bembenek and W. Widłak},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-79957610182&doi=10.1016%2fj.cbpa.2011.04.002&partnerID=40&md5=f30d0a56c2aa75684b073f4efb9fa544},

doi = {10.1016/j.cbpa.2011.04.002},

issn = {10956433},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology - A Molecular and Integrative Physiology},

volume = {159},

number = {4},

pages = {349-366},

publisher = {Elsevier Inc.},

abstract = {Highly evolutionary conserved heat shock proteins (HSPs) act as molecular chaperones in regulation of cellular homeostasis and promoting survival. Generally they are induced by a variety of stressors whose effect could be disastrous on the organism, but they are also widely constitutively expressed in the absence of stress. Varied HSP expressions seem to be very essential in the critical steps of embryonic and extra-embryonic structures formation and may correspond to cell movements, proliferation, morphogenesis and apoptosis, which occur during embryonic development. While our knowledge of detailed HSP expression patterns is in constant progress, their functions during embryonic development are not yet fully understood. In the paper, we review available data on HSP expression and discuss their role during vertebrate development. © 2011 Elsevier Inc.},

note = {69},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-78649630216,

title = {Ultrastructural studies of epidermis keratinization in grass snake embryos Natrix natrix L. (Lepidosauria, Serpentes) during late embryogenesis},

author = { E. Swadźba and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-78649630216&doi=10.1016%2fj.zool.2010.07.002&partnerID=40&md5=1421f3c9c5858e02b9c44e2934cfcd16},

doi = {10.1016/j.zool.2010.07.002},

issn = {09442006},

year  = {2010},

date = {2010-01-01},

journal = {Zoology},

volume = {113},

number = {6},

pages = {339-360},

abstract = {The changes and biochemical features of the epidermis that accompany the differentiation and embryonic shedding complex formation in grass snake Natrix natrix L. embryos were studied ultrastructurally and immunocytochemically with two panels of antibodies (AE1; AE3; AE1/AE3; anti-cytokeratin; pan mixture; Lu-5 and PCK-26). All observed changes in the ultrastructure of the cells forming the epidermal layers were associated with the physiological changes that occurred in the embryonic epidermis, such as changing of the manner of nutrition and keratinization leading to the embryonic shedding complex formation. The layers that originated first (basal; outer and inner periderm and clear layer) differentiated very early and rapidly. Rapid differentiation was also observed in the layers that are very important for the functioning of the epidermis in Natrix embryos (oberhäutchen and beta-layers). They started to differentiate at developmental stage IX, and then fused and formed the embryonic shedding complex at developmental stage XI. During the embryonic development of the grass snake the smallest changes appeared in the ultrastructure of the cells in the mesos and alpha-layers because they perform supplementary functions in the process of embryonic molting. They were undifferentiated until the end of embryonic development and started to differentiate just before the first adult molting. AE1/AE3, anti-cytokeratin, pan mixture, Lu-5 and PCK-26 antibodies immunolabeled clear layer, oberhäutchen and beta-layers at the latest phase of developmental stage XI. It should be noted that these antibodies did not immunolabel the alpha-layer until hatching. The presence of alpha-keratin immunolabeling in layers that were keratinized, particularly in the oberhäutchen and beta-layers in embryos, indicated that they were not as hard as in fully mature individuals. © 2010.},

note = {25},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-57049110360,

title = {Light and scanning microscopic studies of integument differentiation in the grass snake Natrix natrix L. (Lepidosauria, Serpentes) during embryogenesis},

author = { E. Swadźba and R. Maślak and W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-57049110360&doi=10.1111%2fj.1463-6395.2008.00329.x&partnerID=40&md5=503a7b1a94351ce6feb792f519fccf19},

doi = {10.1111/j.1463-6395.2008.00329.x},

issn = {00017272},

year  = {2009},

date = {2009-01-01},

journal = {Acta Zoologica},

volume = {90},

number = {1},

pages = {30-41},

abstract = {We analysed the differentiation of body cover in the grass snake (Natrix natrix L.) over the full length of the embryo's body at each developmental stage. Based on investigations using both light and scanning electron microscopes, we divided the embryonic development of the grass snake integument into four phases. The shape of the epidermal cells changes first on the caudal and ventral parts of the embryo, then gradually towards the rostral and dorsal areas. In stage V on the ventral side of the embryo the gastrosteges are formed from single primordia, but on the dorsal side the epidermis forms the scale primordia in stage VII. This indicates that scalation begins on the ventral body surface, and spreads dorsally. The appearance of melanocytes between the cells of the stratum germinativum in stage VII coincides with changes in embryo colouration. The first dermal melanocytes were detected in stage XI so in this stage the definitive skin pattern is formed. In the same stage the epidermis forms the first embryonic shedding complex and the periderm layer begins to detach in small, individual flakes. This process coincides with rapid growth of the embryos. © 2008 The Authors.},

note = {21},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-33845363014,

title = {Promoter of the heat shock testis-specific Hsp70.2/Hst70 gene is active in nervous system during embryonic development of mice},

author = { W. Rupik and A. Stawierej and I. Stolarczyk and W. Widłak},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-33845363014&doi=10.1007%2fs00429-006-0125-x&partnerID=40&md5=e3511d3163d1f28bf868ddc7cf7f663b},

doi = {10.1007/s00429-006-0125-x},

issn = {03402061},

year  = {2006},

date = {2006-01-01},

journal = {Anatomy and Embryology},

volume = {211},

number = {6},

pages = {631-638},

abstract = {The Hsp70.2/Hst70 gene is a unique member of the 70 kDa heat shock proteins multigene family whose activity is regulated developmentally; in adult mice and rats its expression is restricted mostly to meiotic and postmeiotic male germ cells. In aim to analyze activity of the Hsp70.2/Hst70 promoter in developing embryos we have constructed transgenic mice expressing EGFP reporter gene under control of the rat Hst70 promoter. The appearance of EGFP fluorescence coincides with series of major developmental events, such as extra-embryonic membranes formation, axial rotation, formation of neural tube and the primordium of central nervous system, formation of differentiated somites, extensive remodeling of the heart, development of fingers and toes, and sensory organs formation. Activity of the Hst70 promoter localizes mostly inside nervous system indicating the role of Hsp70.2/Hst70 gene in development of this system. © 2006 Springer-Verlag.},

note = {10},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-0036046532,

title = {Early development of the adrenal glands in the grass snake Natrix natrix L. (Lepidosauria, Serpentes).},

author = { W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-0036046532&partnerID=40&md5=2ae9aaa853836e1ce5229281e18ac3cf},

issn = {03015556},

year  = {2002},

date = {2002-01-01},

journal = {Advances in anatomy, embryology, and cell biology},

volume = {164},

pages = {I-XI, 1-102},

abstract = {The aim of the study was to investigate the development and differentiation of the adrenal glands in the grass snake (Natrix natrix L.) during the early stages of ontogenesis, i.e., from egg-laying to hatching of the first specimens. The material used for the studies consisted of a collection of embryos of the grass snake. The Natrix eggs were incubated in the laboratory at a constant temperature of 30 degrees C and 100% relative humidity. Embryos were isolated in a regular sequence of time from egg-laying to hatching. The age of the embryos was qualified according to normal tables for this species. For histological and histochemical investigations, the smallest embryos were fixed in toto. From the oldest embryos, the medial region with the mesonephros and adrenal primordium were resected. Depending on the requirements of histochemical methods, the material was fixed in various fixatives, namely, 10% formalin solution, Bouin, Wood and Millonig fluid, embedded in paraffin and sectioned into serial transversal, sagittal and longitudinal sections. The sections for review were stained with H&E and azan. For detection of adrenaline and noradrenaline in chromaffin tissue, the Wood and Honoré methods were used. SGC cells were detected with the silver stain method after Bodian. For electron microscopic studies, the adrenal gland was fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde and 2.0% paraformaldehyde 1:1 in 0.1 M phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 and post-fixed in 1.5% osmic acid in the same buffer. The fixed sections of the adrenal glands were embedded in Epon 812. Semithin and ultrathin sections were cut on ultramicrotome ultratome IV. Semithin sections were stained with methylene blue and ultrathin sections were routinely contrasted with uranyl acetate and lead citrate, then examined and photographed with the JEM JEOL 1220 electron microscope. According to morphological and metrical observation in the course of the grass snake embryo development, one can distinguish 12 stages of development. The primordia of the adrenal cortex appear at the first trimester of egg incubation as two asymmetrical strands between the mesonephros and aorta dorsalis. They are made of dense mesenchymal cells. At the second trimester of development, primordia are penetrated by chromaffinoblasts and capillaries. The mesenchymal cells differentiate into interrenal cells, while chromaffinoblasts are arranged dorsally of the gland. The glands are enclosed by the capsule which separates them from the mesonephros. At the third trimester of the eggs incubation, only noradrenaline appears in a chromaffin tissue. At the moment of snake hatching, the adrenal glands are completely differentiated, both in their structure and their function. The primordia of the interrenal tissue differentiate from mesenchymal cells similarly to mammals. During the development of the snake interrenal tissue, several types of cells can be recognized, varying in the degree of differentiation and in ultrastructural features: 1. Undifferentiated cells with features of mesenchymal cells 2. Differentiating mesenchymal cells 3. Transitional cells with features of mesenchymal and steroidogenic cells 4. Differentiating interrenal cells with pleomorphic mitochondria and numerous lipid droplets 5. Embryonic interrenal cells containing circular lipid droplets and underdeveloped smooth endoplasmic reticulum 6. Transitional interrenal cells containing mitochondria with tubular and vesicular cristae, large lipid droplets, numerous myelin structures, and well-developed smooth endoplasmic reticulum 7. Degenerating cells of embryonic interrenal tissue 8. Differentiating mesenchymal cells with features of fibroblasts The above classification is very schematic and presumptive. In developing adrenal glands at the first trimester of egg incubation type 1 and 2 cells predominate. Type 3 and 4 cells were observed at the second trimester of the adrenal primordia development. At the third trimester of egg incubation, embryonic adrenal glands were composed of the type 5 cells. At the moment of snake hatching, interrenal tissue contained type 5 and 6 cells. In the next days of the adrenal gland development, at the border between the cortex and in medulla as under the capsule, numerous cells were degenerated. During the entire development period the adrenal capsule was built from type 7 cells. The chromaffin tissue of the adrenal glands is derived from the neural crest. These findings agree with the findings of all embryologists. The first chromaffinoblasts infiltrated the adrenal cortex primordium around stage IV of development. They were mixed with interrenal cells and just at hatching they were localized dorsally of the gland. The chromaffinoblasts differentiated gradually from neuron-like cells to typical chromaffinocytes. All the chromaffinoblasts contained the chromaffin granules. The size and numerical density of the chromaffin granules increased with development. Just before hatching, the cells of the chromaffin tissue contained only noradrenaline. Differentiation chromaffinoblasts into chromaffin cells are probably stimulated and controlled by the influence of hormones, which are produced by the cells of the interrenal tissue. According to morphological, histochemical and ultrastructural observation in the course of adrenal differentiation and development in the grass snake, six morphological phases can be distinguished.},

note = {32},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{2-s2.0-33749278006,

title = {The development of the adrenal glands in grass snake (Natrix natrix L.) during early stages of its ontogenesis},

author = { W. Rupik},

url = {https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-33749278006&partnerID=40&md5=0dc0dcbd9fa8875f32d0ef8fc0087b5b},

issn = {0001530X},

year  = {1997},

date = {1997-01-01},

journal = {Acta Biologica Cracoviensia Series Zoologia},

volume = {39},

number = {SUPPL. 1},

pages = {29-},

abstract = {The aim of the study was to investigate the development and differentiation of the adrenal glands in grass snake (Natrix natrix L.) during early stages of ontogenesis, i.e. from the egg-laying till hatching of first specimens. There were investigated with histological and histochemical methods and in electron microscope. The primordia of the adrenal cortex appear at the first trimester of eggs incubation as two asymmetrical strands between mesonephros and aorta dorsalis. They are made of dens mesenchymal cells. At the second trimester of development primordia are penetrated by chromaffinoblasts and capillaries. The mesenchymal cells differentiate into interrenal cells, while chromaffinoblasts are arranged dorsally of the gland. The gland are enclosed by the capsule which separates them from mesonephros. At the third trimester of egg's incubation only noradrenaline appears in a chromaffin tissue. At the moment of snake hatching the adrenal glands are not completely differentiated, both in their structure and function.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}