Histology and Ultrastructure, Salivary Glands, Mouse

Abstract

The mouse, as well as many other species, has three major paired salivary glands — submaxillary (submandibular), parotid, and sublingual — and minor salivary glands (Smith 1966). The minor salivary glands are located in the oral submucosa and tongue, but are not visible grossly. All three major glands are closely associated and located in the subcutaneous tissue of the ventral neck area (Fig. 146). The submaxillary (submandibular) are the largest and easiest of the salivary glands to identify grossly. They are lobulated, extend posteriorly to the sternum and clavicle, anteriorly to the hyoid bone, and medially to overlap slightly on the median line. Submaxillary salivary glands of male mice are larger and more opaque than those of females (Fig. 146). A single excretory duct from the anterior dorsal surface of each gland opens on the floor of the oral cavity posterior to the incisor teeth (Hummel et al. 1966).