A comparative scanning electron microscopic view of the integument of domestic mammals.

The research explored the differences in the skin (integument) structure of various domestic animals using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing species-specific features and the domestication effects particularly on the hair coat.

Study Overview

• The research aimed to examine skin differences among domestic mammals including pigs, cats, dogs, horses, cattle, sheep, and goats. This was accomplished efficiently with the use of Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), a powerful tool that can reveal typically minute structural features of the skin.
• SEM technique was found to be very effective in identifying and characterizing the unique structural features of various layers of skin (Epidermal layers), the organization of collagen and elastic fiber networks in the Dermis skin layer, and the internal and external structure of hair follicles and shafts.

In-depth Analysis and Detections

• Researchers were also able to identify certain effects of domestication on the skin of these animals. Notably, changes in the hair coat of these animals due to domestication were observed.
• Using SEM, researchers could supplement the knowledge that could be obtained using conventional procedures like transmission electron microscopy, light microscopy, or histochemistry to study the skin.

Comparative Morphology and its Consequences

• The researchers argue that the comparative morphology derived from the SEM investigation can lay the foundation for constructing specific functional models of different skin layers or derivatives and the tissues involved.
• This could lead to advancements in veterinary sciences, and animal husbandry practices, ensuring better care for domestic animals.