Elevated mitotic number in the adrenal cortex as a reflection of early events in growth induction by carcinogens and promoters--a possible short-term assay.

Growth stimulating influences such as partial hepatectomy, chemical promoters and various carcinogens act mitogenically on the adrenal cortex of rats. The proliferative response of this 'non-target' tissue is probably due to systemically operating mechanisms which are independent of the organotropism of a substance. Therefore, this in vivo test appears useful for short-term evaluation of the promoting action of chemical compounds.