Moniezia expansa: the interproglottidal glands and their secretions.

Acetylcholinesterase (EC 3:1:1:7) and alkaline phosphatase (EC 3:1:3:1) were detected in secretions of Moniezia expansa maintained in vitro. Ultrastructural cytochemical studies demonstrated acetylcholinesterase activity on the surface of the microtriches at the base of the interproglittidal glands and in the gland lumen but not in the distal tegument or the gland cells. Alkaline phosphatase activity was demonstrated in the cytoplasm of the gland cells and especially in their protoplasmic connections with the distal tegument. Activity was also found in the distal tegument and the microtriches. It is suggested that the acetylcholinesterase secreted by M. expansa performs a metabolic role at the worm's surface.