Demonstration of prolactin at the ultrastructural level in a pituitary adenoma by the use of colloidal gold labelling

J Submicrosc Cytol. 1984 Jul;16(3):555-60.

Abstract

A prolactin-secreting pituitary adenoma was removed in a 38-year-old man. The tumor was classified as a chromophobe adenoma on the basis of tinctorial staining, but immunocytochemistry revealed that cells reacted with anti-PRL serum. Electron microscopy showed secretory granules and evidence of high metabolic activity (well developed Golgi apparatus and rough endoplasmic reticulum). Immunoelectron microscopy by the immunogold staining method allowed a clear definition of prolactin containing granules.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma / metabolism
  • Adenoma / ultrastructure*
  • Adult
  • Colloids
  • Gold
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Microscopy, Electron
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / ultrastructure*
  • Prolactin / analysis*

Substances

  • Colloids
  • Gold
  • Prolactin