Isolation and characterization of epithelial and connective tissue cells from rat palate

Epithelial and connective tissue cells were isolated from rat palate by sequential enzymatic digestion. Differences between the two populations were noted with respect to proline uptake and incorporation, % collagen synthesized, effects of parathyroid hormone and metabolism of D-valine. From these studies it can be concluded that the cell populations are viable and distinct with respect to the biochemical parameters examined.