2008 Volume 25 Pages 158-163
AIM : To analyze the dynamic state of intracellular calcium and the mechanism for induction of apoptosis in olfactory neurons and astrocyte-like RCR-1 cells induced by the exposure to tributyltin (TBTC).
METHODS : Astrocyte-like RCR-1 cells and primary cultures of olfactory neurons were cultured in a serum-free DMEM medium and exposed to TBTC. The intracellular calcium of olfactory neurons or astrocyte-like RCR-1 cells was labeled using the calcium specific fluorescent dye Fluo3-AM, and examined before and after administration of TBTC, utilizing confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM). Apoptotic cells were further analyzed by flow cytometry.
RESULTS: Intracellular concentration of calcium increased within 5 min (as noted by fluorescent intensity) of exposure to TBTC and cytosolic calcium was transported to the nucleus in olfactory neurons or RCR-1 cells. Finally, caspase-dependent apoptosis occurred.
CONCLUSION : The TBTC-induced significant increase in calcium may be associated with caspase-dependent cell death. This calcium is a critical messenger in the apoptotic pathway. Further investigation is warranted to examine the TBTC-induced calcium-dependent apoptotic pathway and the apoptotic signaling messenger for olfactory neurons and astrocyte cells.
