Changes in the fine structure and function of a hormone-secreting adrenocortical tumour investigated in tissue culture.
Tissue cultures of a surgically removed adrenocortical tumour causing Cushing's syndrome, and tissue cultures from the attached, tumour-free adrenal were studied. There were two cell types characteristic of tumour tissue. The cell type occurring most frequently had pronounced hypertrophied agranular endoplasmic reticulum. A fewer number of lipid-rich cells containing many electron-dense granules could also be found. The ratio of cells changed during cultivation. In the 17 days tumour culture, a higher percentage of lipid-rich cells could be observed. In spite of continuous ACTH treatment, the initially high hydrocortisone level decreased, gradually. It may be assumed that the lipid-rich cells are of reduced ability as regards hydrocortisone production.
D000310:Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000328:Adult; D046508:Culture Techniques; D003480:Cushing Syndrome / Q000150:complications; D004721:Endoplasmic Reticulum; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000378:metabolism; D006984:Hypertrophy; D013997:Time Factors
D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone; D006854:Hydrocortisone