Histogenesis of Thymus in Different Prenatal Age Groups of Goat Foetus

Abstract

The prenatal developmental study on thymus was carried out in 30 goat foetii, which were divided into five age groups as G1 (1- 4 cm CRL), G2 (4.1-14cm CRL), G3 (14.1-26cm CRL), G4 (26.1-32cm CRL) and above 32.1cm CRL (Crown Rump Length). In G1, aggregation of lymphocytes was observed at CRL 2.5cm. In G2, distinct lobules were observed which were partially or completely separated by interlobular septa and covered by capsule. In G3, the density of collagen and reticular fibers increased in capsule as age advanced. In G4, the shape of cortical lobule was elongated oval. In G5, the cortex consisted of diffusely arranged thymocytes and numerous epithelial reticular cells.