Immunohistolocalization of the carbonic anhydrase isozymes I, II and III in equine salivary glands.

The immunolocalization of carbonic anhydrase isozymes in equine salivary glands was investigated for assessment of their biologic functions. In parotid glands, duct segments showed reactivity with CA-I and CA-III. CA-III was selectively located in duct segments, particularly in the basal cells of the interlobular duct. Serous acinar cells were positive for CA-I and CA-II. In submandibular glands, CA-I and CA-II were present in serous demilune and duct segments. CA-II was selectively located in the duct segments, as also noted in the parotid gland. In sublingual glands, CA-I and CA-II were located in serous demilune, as also in the case of the submandibular gland. In the duct segments, all the isozymes considered in this study were found to be present.