The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Vol 63, Issue 4 627-630, Copyright © 1981 by Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Inc
Parameters of longitudinal growth rate in rabbit epiphyseal growth plates
F Seinsheimer and CB Sledge
Three parameters have been identified that provide useful indices of
longitudinal growth rate in rabbit epiphyseal plates. Specifically, we have
examined the relationship between longitudinal growth rate and (1)
growth-plate thickness; (2) the rate of cell division by proliferating
chondrocytes; and (3) 35SO4 incorporation associated with matrix synthesis.
There were statistically significant correlations between growth rate and
each of the three experimentally determined parameters. Growth rate
increased in direct proportion to growth-plate thickness, rate of
chondrocyte proliferation, or 35SO4 incorporation associated with matrix
synthesis. Of the three parameters, the rate of cell division of
proliferative chondrocytes, as determined by counts of 3H thymidine-labeled
cells following autoradiography, appeared to provide the most sensitive
index of growth rate. However, used in combination, determination of the
three parameters should make it possible to assess the relative
contributions of changes in the numbers of cells, in the rate of
chondrocyte proliferation, and in extracellular matrix synthesis to
over-all growth rate. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Methods are described and data
are presented that should make it possible to design studies of the factors
that regulate and control the longitudinal growth rate of epiphyseal
cartilage growth plates. The experimental design of this work is applicable
to the study of hormonal regulation of over-all growth rates and to
determination of whether the effects of certain hormones are due to their
effect on cell proliferation or matrix synthesis. Such studies should
contribute to a better understanding of the control of growth in normal
individuals and in patients with disease.
CiteULike 
Connotea 
Del.icio.us 
Technorati What's this?
