抄録
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to cause neurodegenerative diseases. We have previously shown that ROS impair axonal transport. In particular, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) has remarkable toxicity for neuronal cells. In the present study, we investigated the effects of H2O2 on neuronal cells in cultured mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons. Cell membrane disruption was evaluated by trypan blue staining. Mitochondria and Lysosomes were stained with Mitotracker and Lysotracker, respectively, in living cells. Cytoskeletons, actin filaments and microtubules, were stained with rhodamine–phalloidin and anti -α–tubulin antibody, respectively, after cells were fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde. Organelles and cytoskeletons were observed under fluorescence microscopy. Immediately after treatment with tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP, 1 mM), a H2O2 donor, cell bodies as well as axons were stained by trypan blue. Mitochondria and lysosomes were swollen within 2 min after treatment. In contrast, actin filaments and microtubules were not apparently changed. These results indicate that cell membrane and intracellular membranous structures may be the target of H2O2. This may lead to irreversible axonal degeneration and neuronal cell death. [J Physiol Sci. 2008;58 Suppl:S205]
