The Structure and Function of the Cutaneous Glands in Helix aspersa

The glands discharging ‘slime’ on to the surface of the mantle collar and foot of Helix aspersa have been investigated histologically and histochemically on chemically fixed and frozen-dried material. All the glands are unicellular; they lie in the connective tissue and discharge by pores passing between the epidermal cells; some are club-shaped, others are polygonal with a distinct and usually long duct. At least 8 different kinds of gland are found: 4 extruding various kinds of mucus, one protein, one calcium carbonate granules, one a pigmented secretion containing a flavone, and one releasing fatglobules. The histology of the mantle collar is very similar to that of the dorsal and lateral surfaces of the foot except that the glands in the mantle are usually larger. All kinds of secretion are extruded from these parts. The glands of the sole of the foot are mostly of a distinct kind and produce mucus combined with protein. The mechanism of discharge is discussed: some of the gland cells are enclosed in a network of muscle-fibres which are thought to be concerned in the removal of the secretion, in other cases no fibres have been found and it seems likely that changes in pressure in the haemocoel are involved. The composition of the slime changes from colourless and viscous to yellow and watery when the animal is irritated. It is usually slightly alkaline, is not distasteful to man, and does not inhibit the growth of micro-organisms. The mucous component acts as a lubricant, and on the sole for adhesion. The calcium carbonate granules and the protein may be concerned in defence, while the flavone is a waste-product varying with the amount of green food eaten. The epiphragm is formed by the secretion of part of the mantle collar and is probably dissolved away by a protein-splitting enzyme which has been demonstrated in the slime.