| Abstract: |
These studies were designed to quantitate and determine the DNA content distribution of human marrow megakaryocytes using whole bone marrow. Cellular DNA content within megakaryocytic cells was established by measuring propidium iodide staining in marrow cells expressing platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (Gp IIb/IIIa). These studies were based on the development of a method for rapid analysis of whole marrow cell preparations by a dual fluorescent system. DNA values ranging from 2 to 64 C were observed in all samples tested, with 16 C corresponding to the modal ploidy class representing almost one-half of the cells containing Gp IIb/IIIa. The second most frequent ploidy class corresponded to 32 C, followed by 8 C, with 20% and 15%, respectively. Virtual all high-ploidy megakaryocyte (≥8 C) were of low density (<1.050 g/cm3), whereas 2 and 4 C megakaryocytes were evently distributed between ≤1.050 and >1.050 g/cm3 marrow cells. These studies conclusively establish DNA content distribution of normal human marrow megakaryocytes and provide a basis for the study of states of altered megakaryocytopoiesis. |
