Fluorescent cytochemistry of calid and algid normal and Lucké tumor-bearing kidneys

Fluorescent cytochemical techniques, chiefly end-group methods, have been employed in the characterization of cells in calid and algid normal and LUCKE tumor-bearing kidneys of the leopard frog, Rana pipiens. Cytoplasmic RNA and glycogen distribution reflect the known patterns of general metabolic activity of the respective cells in question. Protein sulfhydryl distribution is similar in normal distal tubules and tumors while both differ significantly from proximal tubules. Viral inclusions in nuclei of algid tumor cells contain demonstrable DNA, protein sulfhydryls and disulfides, arginine and lysine-rich basic proteins, also both C-terminal and side chain carboxyl groups. Significant amounts of DNA are demonstrable in the cytoplasm of algid tumors. Fluorescence cytochemical methods directed toward end-groups or specific classes of macromolecules offer a particularly favorable option, because of increased sensitivity and higher levels of contrast, for comparative cytological investigations of the LUCKE tumor and of similar systems.