The Effect of Seasonal Changes (Photoperiod) on Histomorphometric and Histochemical Structure of Adrenal Gland in Sanjabi Sheep

Document Type : Full Research Paper

Authors

1 Razi university

2 Razi university Veterinary medicine

Abstract

Introduction: The adrenal gland undergoes structural and functional changes in response to environmental changes, including photoperiod. To date, no study has examined the structural changes of the sheep adrenal gland under short (during the breeding season) and long (during the non-breeding season) photoperiods.Objective: To compare the histometric, histological, and histochemical characteristics of the adrenal gland in Sanjabi sheep under short and long photoperiods.Methods: Adrenal glands were sampled and fixed from female Sanjabi sheep during short and long photoperiods. Tissue sections were prepared, stained, and examined using light microscopy. Findings: The thickness of the capsule, cortex, zona fasciculata, zona reticularis, and medulla diameter were greater during long photoperiods compared to short photoperiods (P<0.05). PAS staining intensity was higher in the zona fasciculata and zona reticularis during long photoperiods. Conclusion: Short photoperiod during the breeding season inhibits the adrenal cortex of female sheep. Further study of this gland under photoperiod changes may lead to new methods for sheep breeding and reproductive management.

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Veterinary Research & Biological Products
Volume 38, Issue 3
October 2025
Pages 56-68

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History

  • Receive Date: 16 February 2025
  • Revise Date: 31 March 2025
  • Accept Date: 18 April 2025

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