Cell death induced by peroxidized low-density lipoprotein: endopepsis

Peroxidized low-density lipoprotein (p-LDL) has been previously demonstrated to be preferentially cytotoxic to certain malignant cells compared to normal cells of the same type. We present evidence that p-LDL is at least partially taken up through the LDL receptor and that it becomes localized in lysosomes. The integrity of lysosomes of p-LDL-treated cells is compromised, and leakage of their contents into the cytosol occurs. This leakage occurs early and precedes mitochondrial dysfunction. Brefeldin A inhibits this leakage, perhaps by interfering with the traffic between endosomes and lysosomes. Electron micrographs taken at various times suggest a mechanism of cell death which resembles certain aspects of the broad definition of apoptosis. However, we suggest that the cell death observed following p-LDL-induced release of lysosomal contents is essentially unique, with released lysosomal enzymes degrading the cell from within. We suggest that this process should be described as endopepsis.