The effects of nicotine on cell division of HeLa cells

A time lapse cinemicrographic study shows that, at low concentrations, nicotine can speed up cytokinesis and, at high concentrations, prolong the duration of metaphase in HeLa cells. Based upon the known effects of the alkaloid in other systems, it appears that it may stimulate microfilament activity and inhibit microtubule function by increasing the level of cytosolic calcium ions.