[BrdU immunohistochemical observation on regeneration of tracheal epithelia using tissue culture method]

The growth process of tracheal epithelia was observed by primary cell culture method using BrdU. Cells stained with BrdU, that showed mitotic activity, were nonciliary cells and BrdU was not found in ciliated (differentiated) cells. The dividing cells and the mature cells could be distinguished by BrdU. Thus, it was demonstrated that BrdU could be used as an index for investigating the growth process of basal cells. Tissue culture of the tracheal rings after mucosal injury was performed. On the third day post-injury, the cells stained with BrdU and the migrating epithelia were observed in the border region between the non-injury and injury site. On the seventh day post-injury, healing was completed. The tissue culture method using BrdU is useful for observing the healing process of the tracheal mucous membrane.