Remarkable changes of parathyroid function immediately after parathyroidectomy were evaluated in primary (PHPT) and secondary (RHPT) hyperparathyroidism. Bone metabolism was also evaluated by new specific markers of bone formation and resorption. A rapid decline into the undetectable range, and a rapid recovery of serum bioactive parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations were observed after parathyroidectomy in PHPT. Since the function of the remnant parathyroid glands was not clear, we investigated the transcription of PTH mRNA. Despite the suppression of PTH secretion in the remnant parathyroid glands, no significant difference was found in the amount of PTH mRNA present in an adenoma as compared to a remnant gland when evaluated by cytoplasmic dot hybridization and in situ hybridization. Although measurement of serum PTH concentration by assays of inactive fragment was available for the longterm follow-up of PTH function in RHPT, parathyroid function should be evaluated by biologically active intact PTH immediately after operation. The PTH gradient also was successfully evaluated by the measurement of intact PTH. A discrepancy was observed between bone resorption evaluated by type I collagen cross-linked N-telopeptide as compared to bone formation evaluated by osteocalcin immediately after operation. This discrepancy will improve and bone mineral density will increase in the first 6 months after parathyroidectomy.

Biomarkers↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Functional and morphometric study of cryopreserved human parathyroid tissue transplanted into nude mice.

As part of an ongoing study of the characteristics of transplanted fresh normal and pathologic parathyroid tissues, we transplanted cryopreserved human parathyroid tissue into nude mice. Hyperplastic glands cryopreserved for various lengths of time (<2 weeks and >1 year) were transplanted into the gluteus muscle of nude mice. Specimens grafted were of two sizes: 10 mg and 30 mg. Serum human parathyroid hormone (hPTH) concentration was estimated by a double-antibody immunoradiometric assay prior to transplantation and 2, 4, and 8 weeks after transplantation. A low-calcium diet was given to some mice to evaluate any effects on the grafts of low serum concentrations of calcium. All mice were killed 4 hours after injection of bromodeoxyuridine (Brd U) for assessment of the cell proliferation in grafted parathyroid tissue. Although hPTH secretion of cryopreserved tissue was only half that of fresh tissue, the cryopreserved tissue released hPTH, as did fresh tissue. hPTH secretion was accelerated by stimulation of a low-calcium diet, and PTH secretion was positively correlated with the volume of transplanted tissue. The number of Brd U-immunoreactive cells was correlated with the serum concentration of hPTH (r = 0.95), which indicates that cell proliferation is closely related to PTH secretion under the condition of successful transplantation. The experimental transplantation of cryopreserved tissue into nude mice, coupled with a concise immunohistochemical study of the grafts conducted prior to their transplantation into humans, can contribute to the evaluation of PTH secretion and cell proliferation.

Animals↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Identification of blood groups and isoenzymic phenotypes from blood stains, heart blood and nervous tissues after transfusion.

A man aged 42 years died from a hemorrhage resulting from stab wounds in his neck, chest and abdomen. The MN blood group and PGM1 phenotype of the victim's heart blood were inconsistent with those of the blood stains around the victim. The victim was transfused with 4000 ml of blood during the 9 hours before his death. Because PGM1 phenotypes obtained from blood stains at the scene of the crime and from the weapon corresponded with those from the victim's dental pulp, peripheral nerve and bone marrow, the victim's blood groups and isoenzymic phenotypes could be determined accurately.

ABO Blood-Group System↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Preservation of central motor conduction in patients with spinal muscular atrophy type II.

We evaluated the central (motor cortex to C8 motoneuron) and peripheral (C8 motoneuron to the muscle) motor conduction in 14 limbs of 7 patients with the intermediate form of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA II). The central motor conduction time (CMCT) was calculated using motor evoked potentials (MEPs) by transcranial magnetic stimulation and the results of a conventional F wave study. Peripheral conduction abnormality was found in 6 median nerves (43%) and 10 ulnar nerves (71%). Even in these patients with peripheral conduction abnormalities, the CMCT was consistently normal whenever the MEP was recorded. These results indicate that the motor conduction of the corticospinal fibers remains normal in SMA II.

Adolescent↗