Postnatal Growth of the Human Septal Cartilage: Preliminary Report

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Abstract
Growth activities in different areas of the human septal cartilage were determined by the extent of DNA synthesis and matrix synthesis in 20 patients aged 6-40 yr. DNA synthesis measured by in-vitro incorporation of 3H-labeled thymidine was markedly elevated in the anterior free end and the central area of the septum in all age groups. Matrix synthesis measured by in-vitro incorporation of labeled sulfate into proteoglycans showed a comparable age-independent activity in the anterior free end; in the suprapremaxillary area, matrix synthesis displayed its greatest activity during childhood, showing thereafter a continuous decline during puberty and adulthood. A similar age-dependent pattern in this area, though at a much lower level, could also be demonstrated for the extent in DNA synthesis.