DNA synthesis and secretory activity in parathyroid adenomas

Abstract

DNA synthesis was measured in vitro by incorporation of [3H]thymidine into DNA in 42 parathyroid chief cell adenomas immediately after surigical removal. The results ranged 18-185 dpm/.mu.g DNA and showed a positive correlation with preoperative values for serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (r = + 0.47; P < 0.001) and plasma Ca (r = + 0.35; P < 0.05). There was no correlation between DNA synthesis and tumor weight or mean diameter of tumor cell nuclei. DNA synthesis and cell division in parathyroid adenomas may be determined in part by the secretory activity of the tumor. DNA synthesis measured on 1 occasion is not necessarily an overall index of tumor growth.