Harderian gland

Harderian Gland

The Harderian gland is a gland found in many vertebrates that secrete lipids and porphyrins. It is named after the Swiss physician who first described it, Johann Jakob Harder.

Etymology

The Harderian gland is named after Johann Jakob Harder, a Swiss physician who first described the gland in the 17th century.

Anatomy

The Harderian gland is located in the orbit behind the eyeball, and varies in size among different species. In rodents, it is a large gland that extends from the anterior to the posterior pole of the eye, while in humans and other primates, it is small and rudimentary.

Function

The Harderian gland has several functions, including the secretion of lipids and porphyrins. The lipids help to lubricate the eye and the eyelids, while the porphyrins have a role in the immune response and in the regulation of circadian rhythms.

Clinical significance

In some species, the Harderian gland can be affected by tumors, which can cause exophthalmos (protrusion of the eye) and other symptoms. In humans, the gland is often removed during surgery for orbital tumors.

See also

• Lacrimal gland
• Meibomian gland
• Gland

References

Harderian gland Resources
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