Calcium and secretion in normal and supersensitive submaxillary glands of the cat

The effect of stimulation of normal and supersensitive cat salivary glands on the subcellular distribution of hexosamine, calcium and protein has been examined. Selective accumulation of calcium and hexosamine in the granular mucin fraction especially of stimulated glands accompanying a greater secretion of hexosamine and calcium indicates that stimulation leads to accelerated hexosamine synthesis with a concomitant increased uptake of calcium into the gland. The possible meaning of the relative amounts of granular hexosamine, calcium and protein are discussed in relation to the formation of hexosamine-rich granules after the secretory stimulus.