Risperidone-induced bioenergetic disruption in the isolated human peripheral blood monocytes

Bandar Alenazi1, Huda A Al Doghaither2, Ayat B Al-Ghafari3

  • 1Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Northern Border University, Arar, Saudi Arabia.

Insights

Risperidone (RIS) causes immune system damage by disrupting mitochondria in human monocytes. A CoQ10 formulation protected against this toxicity and improved cell function, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach.

Area of Science:

  • Immunotoxicology
  • Mitochondrial Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Risperidone (RIS) is an antipsychotic known to affect immune responses.
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in various drug-induced toxicities.
  • Human peripheral blood monocytes (hPBM) are key immune cells susceptible to drug effects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate mitochondrial disruption as the mechanism behind risperidone-induced immunotoxicity in hPBM.
  • To evaluate the functional and structural changes in monocytes exposed to risperidone.
  • To assess the protective potential of a water-soluble CoQ10 formulation against risperidone's effects.

Main Methods:

  • Cytotoxicity assays on isolated hPBM exposed to varying concentrations and durations of RIS.
  • Measurement of cytokine release (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8) and phagocytic activity.
  • Assessment of mitochondrial function: ATP production, mitochondrial complex I and III activity, membrane potential, oxygen consumption, and lactate production.
  • Analysis of mitochondrial membrane fluidity and fatty acid composition.

Main Results:

  • Risperidone exhibited dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity to hPBM.
  • RIS increased pro-inflammatory cytokine release and decreased phagocytosis.
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction was evident: reduced ATP production, inhibited complex I/III, decreased membrane potential, lower oxygen consumption, and increased lactate production.
  • RIS altered mitochondrial membrane fluidity and fatty acid ratios.
  • Water-soluble CoQ10 mitigated RIS-induced cytotoxicity and restored phagocytic activity.

Conclusions:

  • Mitochondrial disruption is a key mechanism underlying risperidone-induced immunotoxicity in human monocytes.
  • Risperidone impairs monocyte function through effects on mitochondrial bioenergetics and membrane integrity.
  • Water-soluble CoQ10 demonstrates a protective effect against risperidone's immunotoxic effects, highlighting its therapeutic potential.