[Influence of calcitonin on the quantitative cytoarchitecture of juvenile rats, a morphometric study on rat hepatocytes (author's transl)]

Abstract

1.

Introduction: Using ultrastructural-morphometric analysis of liver parenchymal cells, following long term calcitonin administration, the suggestion that calcitonin influences intermediate as well as calcium metabolism has been strengthened. 2.

Materials and methods: The experiments were performed with 10 young male Wiatar rats. 5 animals received salmon calcitonin intraperitoneally every day for 6 weeks, 5 untreated animals served as controls. All animals had free access to water and Altromin-R-standard diet. The morphometric investigations were carried out by a method analogous to that of Weibel (1969). 3.

Results and discussion: By comparison with controls smaller cells and nuclei were seen. Following calcitonin treatment the mitochondrial content of liver parenchymal cells was markedly reduced. On the other hand the surface of cristae was doubled. A proportional membrane and enzyme production in the sense of an adaption, or a disproportional membrane and enzyme synthesis as a misadaption is discussed as the pathogenetic mechanism. Furthermore the number as well as the volume of peroxisome, and lysosomes was reduced. Total liver calcium decreased, whereas serum calcium concentration increased slightly. This can be explained through raised renal reabsorption as a compensatory effect of parathyroid hormone.