Histomorphometric, histochemical and microstereological studies on the accessory glands of the male African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse)

Histomorphometric analysis of the accessory glands of the male giant rat showed that structurally these organs resemble those of other rodents. The mean weight, epithelial height, volumetric proportion of these organs and their enzyme activity were determined. While the seminal vesicle had the highest mean weight and epithelial height, the prostate had the highest proportion of connective tissue. The seminal vesicle showed high ATPase and moderate glucose-6-phosphatase activities. These findings are compared with those reported for some other mammals.