Exploring the nexus of histomorphological, micrometrical and histochemical changes in the development of testis in the dynamics of pre and post natal ontogenesis in non-descript goat (Capra hircus) in hot climatic conditions of Odisha
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Keywords:
Histomorphology, histochemistry, micrometry, testis, ontogenesis, goat, climate, OdishaAbstract
The continuity of any species is fundamentally reliant on its reproductive capacity. Reproduction is a multifaceted biological process encompassing sequential events such as gametogenesis, fertilization, gestation, reproductive behaviors, and parturition (lambing/kidding). Among domestic ruminants, sheep and goats are regarded as the most prolific breeders. Achieving a high level of reproductive efficiency is essential not only for species survival but also for the sustained production of meat, milk, fiber, and skin, as well as for the regular replacement of breeding animals. Understanding the histoarchitecture, micrometry and histochemical changes in the testis are essential for gaining insights into the male reproductive physiology, surgical anatomy, and breeding practices, especially in non-descript goats. The present study was undertaken to elucidate the developmental changes in the testis of healthy non-descript goats (Capra hircus) across prenatal and postnatal stages. Histological studies reveled that in early prenatal stages, the testis comprised of undifferentiated seminiferous cords lined with Primordial Germ Cells followed by gonocytes and type A spermatogonia in mid trimester stage. With advancing gestation, seminiferous cords differentiated into tubules, interstitial space expanded, and Leydig cells became more prominent. Postnatally, seminiferous tubules displayed active spermatogenesis, with a progressive increase in luminal diameter, basement membrane thickness, and the presence of spermatogenic cells including spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids, and spermatozoa in pubertal animals. Masson’s trichrome’s stain showed increasing collagen fiber density with age, while Verhoeff’s and Gomori’s stains confirmed the maturation of elastic and reticular fibers, respectively, contributing to structural integrity and elasticity. Histochemical studies revealed that PAS staining for neutral mucopolysaccharides increased from weak to intense in seminiferous epithelium and ductal linings across developmental stages, indicating enhanced glycoprotein synthesis. Alcian Blue staining for acidic mucopolysaccharides was moderately intense in interstitial and basal lamina regions, especially in late prenatal and early postnatal stages, reflecting active extracellular matrix remodeling. Collectively, these results highlighted the complex interplay of structural and functional changes that underpin the development and maturation of the male reproductive tract in non-descript goats, offering critical insights into reproductive physiology and age-related fertility assessment in these animals under the hot climatic conditions of Odisha.
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