IMMUNOLOCALIZATION OF PARATHYROID-HORMONE IN HUMAN PARATHYROID-GLANDSWITH SPECIAL REFERENCES TO MICROWAVE ANTIGEN RETRIEVAL

The subcellular localization of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the norma l human parathyroid glands with particular reference to microwave anti gen retrieval was investigated using peroxidase-labeled PTH antibody, immunohistochemical, and immunoelectron microscopic methods. The resul ts revealed that PTH granules existed mainly as pro-PTH on the trans s ide of Golgi and in the regions adjacent to Golgi apparatus. Only a sm all proportion of secretory granules were stored near the plasma membr ane. Microwave irradiation was essential for the immunodetection of PT H. As the irradiative time extended from 1 to 30 min, the staining int ensity increased, and the subcellular preservation decreased. Microwav e irradiation for 15 min (with the sections in citrate buffer) with a power output of 500 W is the most ideal for PTH antigen retrieval, as well as for subcellular preservation.