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Toxic effects of methylmethacrylate monomer on leukocytes and endothelial cells in vitro
O E Dahl1, L J Garvik, T Lyberg
1Research Forum, Ullevaal Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
Abstract:
The influence of methylmethacrylate monomer (MMA) on the cellular integrity of monocytes, granulocytes and endothelial cells in vitro was investigated. Clinically relevant blood concentrations of MMA (i.e., 5-10 micrograms/mL) were clearly cytotoxic to all cell types studied, as evidenced by the release of lactic dehydrogenase (LD) and 51Cr, and increased uptake of trypan blue (vital staining). Scanning electron microscopic examination of cells treated with 10 micrograms/mL MMA showed marked signs of cytotoxicity after 1 min incubation, and after 30 min the majority of the cells were totally disintegrated. These findings may have clinical bearing on intraoperative cardiorespiratory dysfunction and deep vein thrombosis in MMA-fixed joint replacement surgery.
Insights
Methylmethacrylate monomer (MMA) at clinical concentrations is cytotoxic to blood cells and endothelial cells. This monomer causes rapid cell disintegration, potentially impacting joint replacement surgery outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Methylmethacrylate monomer (MMA) is a key component in bone cements used in joint replacement surgeries.
- Understanding the in vitro effects of MMA on blood and endothelial cells is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cytotoxic effects of MMA on monocytes, granulocytes, and endothelial cells in vitro.
- To assess the cellular integrity and viability upon exposure to clinically relevant MMA concentrations.
Main Methods:
- In vitro exposure of monocytes, granulocytes, and endothelial cells to MMA concentrations of 5-10 micrograms/mL.
- Assays included lactate dehydrogenase (LD) release, 51Cr release, and trypan blue uptake.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to visualize cellular damage.
Main Results:
- Clinically relevant MMA concentrations demonstrated significant cytotoxicity across all tested cell types.
- Elevated LD and 51Cr release indicated cell membrane damage.
- Increased trypan blue uptake confirmed loss of cell viability.
- SEM revealed rapid and extensive cell disintegration within minutes of MMA exposure.
Conclusions:
- MMA exhibits potent cytotoxicity to key blood and endothelial cells at concentrations encountered during joint replacement surgery.
- These findings suggest a potential cellular basis for intraoperative complications like cardiorespiratory dysfunction and deep vein thrombosis associated with MMA use.