Cell Proliferation and DNA Dependent DNA Polymerase Estimation in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia during Treatment with Prednisone and Vincristine

Abstract

The presence of DNA polymerase and primer-template DNA in lymphoblast nuclei by measuring the in vitro incorporation of 3H-thymidine-5'-triphmphate (3H-TTP) was studied in 10 patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Protein synthesis and various other cytokinetic parameters were also studied. After prednisone (P) administration a marked decrease in 3H-TTP labelling index (W-TTP LI) was apparent together with an inhibition of 3H-leucine incorporation (3H-LEU LI) into lymphoblasts. A moderate decrease in 3H-TDR labelling index (3H-TDR LI) and a later decrease in mitotic index (MI) were seen. Single cell DNA measurements showed a depletion of 3H-TDR labelled lymphoblasts in early part of S-phase apparent at 24 h lasting up to 54 h after P administration. Vincristine given as a flash injection later in the study period caused an immediate rise of the MI, at the same time the P induced decline in 3H-TTP LI, 3H-TDR LI and 3H-LEU LI were continued in most patients. P is thought to damage the cells both in and outside the cell cycle. In the cell cycle the effect of P is an arresting effect in GI.