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Aminoglycosides induce fragility of human red cell membrane: an in vitro study

Abdulkadir A Alnakshbandi1

  • 1College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical College, Erbil, Iraq.

Indian Journal of Pharmacology
|March 31, 2015
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Aminoglycosides, commonly known for ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity, increase human red blood cell membrane fragility. This effect on red blood cells occurs independently of drug concentration.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Hematology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Aminoglycosides are recognized for their ototoxic and nephrotoxic side effects.
  • Emerging research suggests red blood cells may act as carriers for aminoglycosides.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of aminoglycosides on the integrity of the human red blood cell membrane.
  • To evaluate the membrane fragility of red blood cells when exposed to specific aminoglycoside drugs.

Main Methods:

  • The study utilized the osmotic fragility test to assess red blood cell membrane integrity.
  • Fresh human blood was incubated with varying concentrations (10-160 μg/mL) of gentamicin, amikacin, and spectinomycin.
  • The study was conducted at Rizgari Teaching Hospital in Erbil, Iraq.

Main Results:

  • Aminoglycoside exposure resulted in a shift of the osmotic fragility curve, indicating increased membrane fragility.
  • Spectinomycin demonstrated a notable effect on red blood cell osmotic fragility.
  • The observed hemolysis was independent of aminoglycoside concentration, with increased sodium chloride concentrations required for 50% hemolysis in the presence of drugs.

Conclusions:

  • Aminoglycosides induce fragility in the human red blood cell membrane.
  • This membrane-compromising effect is independent of the aminoglycoside concentration used.
Keywords:
Aminoglycosideshemolysisosmotic fragility testred cell membrane

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