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Cellular changes in rat parathyroids provoked by progesterone and testosterone
M Brunner1, E M Schraner, P Wild
1Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
Cell and Tissue Research
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Male and female sex hormones, including progesterone and testosterone, enhance parathyroid cell growth and organelle development. This suggests hormones fundamentally modulate parathyroid hormone secretion capacity.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
- Histology
Background:
- Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is crucial for calcium homeostasis.
- The influence of sex hormones on parathyroid gland function is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of progesterone and testosterone on rat parathyroid gland morphology.
- To determine if sex hormones modulate the synthesis of cellular components involved in PTH secretion.
Main Methods:
- Male rats were administered progesterone or testosterone via intramuscular injection.
- Parathyroid glands were collected 24 hours post-treatment for electron microscopy.
- Morphometric analysis was performed to quantify changes in cell and organelle volumes and surface areas.
Main Results:
- Progesterone and testosterone increased nuclear and cell volume and surface area.
- Both hormones significantly increased the surface area of rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and Golgi complex.
- These findings are consistent with previous observations for oestradiol treatment.
Conclusions:
- Sex hormones (progesterone, testosterone, and oestradiol) induce membrane synthesis in parathyroid cells.
- Enhanced RER and Golgi complex indicate an increased capacity for protein synthesis and secretion.
- Sex hormones likely play a fundamental role in modulating parathyroid hormone secretion.