On the Possible Significance of the Lymphoid Organs for the Production of Serum Proteins in the Rat.¹

Abstract

Summary. By means of subtotal extirpation (comprising until 90 per cent.) of the lymphoid organs in the rat an attempt has been made to throw some light upon the possible connexion between these organs and the formation of serum proteins. In the early period after the operations an unspecific, slight increase of the serum globulin and a corresponding decrease of the serum albumin was demonstrated. After cessation of the mesenchymal reactions due to wound healing the serum proteins were found within the normal range. This seems to dispose of the organoid lymphoid tissue (thymus, lymph nodes and spleen) as an essential factor in the production of serum proteins.