Differences in the frequency distribution of DNA and dry mass per cell in lymphocytes derived from cystic fibrosis patients.

The DNA and dry mass content of lymphocytes of normal controls, heterozygotic 
and cystic fibrosis patients have been studied utilizing biophysical instrumentation. The 
lymphocytes from CF had Feulgen-DNA mean values significantly lower than the 
normal controls. DNA values for CF lymphocytes exhibited two sub-population values. 
The mean dry mass (total protein) values exhibited greater intercellular variability 
among CF cells. The dry mass:DNA ratio was higher in CF 
than in normal controls, and this ratio appeared to increase concomitantly 
with advance of disease. 