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Shiga toxin 1 and 2 induce apoptosis in the amniotic cell line WISH

Kazuaki Yoshimura1, Akihide Tanimoto, Tetsuya Abe

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan. yoppy@med.uoeh-u.ac.jp

Abstract

Insights

Shiga toxins (Stx) 1 and 2 directly damage human amniotic cells (WISH cells) in vitro, causing cell death through apoptosis. These toxins are equally toxic to WISH and Vero cells.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Toxicology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Shiga toxins (Stx) are potent protein toxins produced by certain bacteria.
  • Amniotic cells play a crucial role in pregnancy and fetal development.
  • Understanding the effects of Stx on amniotic cells is vital for assessing potential pregnancy complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the in vitro toxicity of Shiga toxin (Stx) 1 and 2 on human amniotic cells.
  • To compare the sensitivity of amniotic cells to Stx with a known sensitive cell line (Vero cells).

Main Methods:

  • Human amniotic WISH cells and Vero cells were exposed to varying concentrations of Stx 1 and 2.
  • Cell viability was assessed using Cell Counting Kit-8.
  • DNA damage was analyzed via agarose gel electrophoresis.
  • Morphological changes and apoptosis were evaluated using Papanicolaou staining and ELISA.

Main Results:

  • Stx exposure led to a dose-dependent decrease in WISH cell viability.
  • DNA laddering, indicative of apoptosis, was observed in Stx-treated WISH cells.
  • Morphological alterations and increased apoptotic indices confirmed Stx-induced apoptosis.

Conclusions:

  • Shiga toxins directly injure human amniotic WISH cells.
  • Apoptosis is the primary mechanism of cell death induced by Stx in WISH cells.
  • WISH cells exhibit sensitivity to Stx comparable to Vero cells.

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