Microwave irradiation and in vitro release of enzymes from hepatic lysosomes

An exposure system for examining in vitro effects of microwave irradiation on cellular and subcellular components has been developed. The system was used to test the effect of 2.45-GHz CW microwaves on the release of two lysosomal enzymes. At a specific absorption rat (SAR) of 10, 50 or 100 mW/g (90 min) no effects were noted at 37 degrees C (pH of 7.3) on lysosomal fragility as determined by the release of the lysosomal enzymes cathepsin D and beta-glucuronidase. When the medium was adjusted to pH 5.0, microwave irradiation of the lysosomal suspension had no effect on the acid-induced enhancement of release of lysosomal enzymes. The data indicate that microwave irradiation had no labilizing effect on the lysosomal membrane, although other microwave-membrane interactions not associated with enzyme release may occur.