Hamster Salivary Gland Sexual Dimorphism. 1. Protein Histochemical Study

Abstract

The histochemical demonstration of tryptophan and tyrosine in the submandibular gland of male and female albino hamsters clearly showed variations in reactivity, according to sex. The response was greater in the male than in the female. The difference was particularly pronounced during the stages of sexual maturation and maturity, but was no longer evident at more advanced stages. The heightened tyrosine reaction was probably related to increased thyroid metabolism, while the tryptophan reaction was considered to be a secondary response to the augmented tyrosine synthesis.