In vivo and in vitro effects of aluminum treatment on rat liver mitochondrial function

This study examines the effect on mitochondrial respiration and permeability of in vivo and in vitro aluminium (Al) exposure. Rats were treated intraperitoneally with AlCl3 to achieve serum and liver Al concentrations comparable to those seen in Al-related disorders. Mitochondria isolated from Al-treated rats had higher (p<0.01) Al concentration, lower (p<0.05) state 3 respiration, respiratory control (RCR), and ADP/O ratio (succinate substrate), and greater passive swelling in 100 mM KCl or 200 mM NH4NO3 than controls. The in vitro addition of Al (0-180 μM) to mitochondria from normal rats also decreased (p<0.01) state 3 respiration, RCR, and ADP/O and stimulated passive swelling in KCl and NH4NO3 at 42-180 μM Al. These studies show that Al depresses mitochondrial energy metabolism and increases membrane permeability. The toxicity associated with Al may be related to its effect on mitochondria.