Influence of Parathyroid Hormone on Bone Cell Ultrastructure

Abstract

A study in rats demonstrated that morphologic changes in the bone osteocytes and osteoblasts are produced following parathyroid hormone (PTH) injection into thyroparathyroidectomized animals. It further showed that similar changes occur in normal rats as the result of of extended fasting. Plasma calcium concentrations were determined at sacrifice to ascertain that these changes in bone occurred at times when plasma calcium is rising as the result of parathyroid hormone stimulation. Tibias from these animals were removed and prepared for morphologic observation using both transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM) electron microscopy. Specific structural features characterized bone cells stimulated by exogenous or endogenous PTH. The most significant morphologic alterations involved surface microvilli and blebs as determined by SEM. TEM studies showed alterations in the cisternae of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER). Additionally, cell shape varied markedly from the control cuboidal morphology. These morphologic changes occurred during peak periods of plasma calcium change and returned to control morphology as plasma calcium levels normalized. Use of an extracellular electron-dense tracer (lanthanum) confirmed the patency of the intercellular channels and the presence of a fluid space between the bone cell plasma membranes and the mineralized surface. PTH stimulation modified cell activity such that the tracer material entered the cell more readily, possibly by inducing increased pinocytosis (endocytosis). This study supports the concept that the osteocytes and lining cells on the surface of bone play a role in maintenance of plasma calcium concentrations.