Crystals in Hyperfunctioning Rat Parathyroid Cells

Abstract

Single intraperitoneal injection of disodium ethylendiamine tetraacetate (Na₂-ED TA) to adult male Wistar rats caused a marked hypocalcemia and definite rise of serum parathyroid hormone (PTH). Electronmicroscopic observation of such hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands revealed numerous characteristic crystals in the dilated rough endoplasmic reticula, in parallel with the degree of hyperfunction. The crystal appeared as a square cylinder measuring as long as 4μ in length. Scarcely secretory granules were demonstrated, and hypertrophied Golgi lamelles showed no formation of granules. Giant globes were occasionally scattered.