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Morphological and biochemical changes in neurons: apoptosis versus mitosis
K L Philpott1, M J McCarthy, D Becker
1Eisai London Research Laboratories Ltd, University College London, UK.
The European Journal of Neuroscience
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Apoptosis involves Golgi apparatus dispersal, similar to mitosis. However, the nuclear lamina remains intact, suggesting cell death doesn't solely result from cell cycle enzyme misregulation.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Apoptosis and mitosis share morphological similarities.
- This suggests potential overlap in their regulatory enzyme sets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Golgi apparatus and nuclear lamina behavior during apoptosis.
- To compare these events with mitotic processes.
Main Methods:
- Examined PC12 cells and rat neurons undergoing apoptosis.
- Induced apoptosis via nerve growth factor withdrawal or staurosporine.
- Assessed nuclear envelope integrity using fluorescent probes.
Main Results:
- Golgi apparatus dispersed during apoptosis, mimicking mitosis.
- Nuclear lamina did not fully solubilize; some lamins degraded.
- Nuclear envelope remained functional, excluding high molecular weight tracers.
Conclusions:
- Apoptosis involves Golgi dispersal, akin to mitosis.
- Unlike mitosis, the nuclear lamina remains largely intact during apoptosis.
- Functional nuclear barrier in apoptosis refutes cell death solely from cell cycle enzyme activation.