Thyroid gland formation from inocula of monodispersed cells: early results on quantitation, function, neoplasia, radiation effects

Procedures are described by which (a) suspensions of monodispersed rat thyroid cells may be prepared and irradiated or otherwise manipulated in vitro, (b) known numbers of morphologically viable cells can be inoculated into untreated or hormonally manipulated histocompatible recipients, and (c) the morphological, functional, and neoplastic potential of the inoculated thyroid cells can be quantitatively assessed. The development of glandular structures at the site of thyroid cell inoculation is quantitatively related to the number of cells injected. These glandular structures concentrate radioiodide, support body growth of thyroidectomized hosts, and are susceptible to neoplastic change