P32 uptake in DNA nucleotides after partial hepatectomy and after unilateral nephrectomy

Abstract

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis as reflected in the specific activity of DNA nucleotides 12 hr after intraperitoneal injection of P³² has been compared after partial hepatectomy and after unilateral nephrectomy. Thirty-six hours after partial hepatectomy, a maximum uptake 11-fold greater than in controls was found. The maximum after unilateral nephrectomy occurred 48 hr after operation and was twofold greater than in controls. Subsequent to these maxima, P³² uptake declined after both operations to a minimum eight days postoperatively which was followed by a second rise on the 9th day. These data support the concept that similar basic mechanisms regulate growth and cell division after the two types of operation. In another experiment, P³² uptake in kidney DNA nucleotides showed no increase after partial hepatectomy; this lends weight to the hypothesis that the mitosis-stimulating substances which appear in the serum after partial hepatectomy and after unilateral nephrectomy are organ specific.