"Radial segmentation" of the nuclei in lymphocytes and other blood cells induced by some anticoagulants.

Abstract

The term radial segmentation (RS) is applied to a characteristic nuclear deformation, occurring in vivo in many neoplastic and leukaemic cells but often also as an in vitro artefact in different conditions. The authors were able to quantitate this phenomenon and study the influence of heparine, sodium citrate, Na2EDTA, and sodium oxalate on the formation rate of RS nuclei in vitro. It was concluded that each of these substances had its own pattern of influence on RS formation. Under specified conditions, RS in oxalated blood was reversible after recalcification. The formation rate of RS nuclei was most rapid and constant in oxalated blood, which thus forms a suitable basis for further quantitative studies of the effect of other substances on this phenomenon.