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Toxicity of poly(rI).poly(rC) for interferon-treated cells. An ultrastructural evaluation
The Journal of General Virology
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Poly(rI).poly(rC) causes cell death by altering mitochondria, nucleus, and endoplasmic reticulum structure in interferon-treated cells. These ultrastructural changes may indicate early cell death, but their primary cause remains unclear.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Interferon treatment primes cells for specific responses.
- Poly(riboinosinic)-poly(ribocytidylic) acid [poly(rI).poly(rC)] is a synthetic double-stranded RNA analog.
- Poly(rI).poly(rC) can induce antiviral states and apoptosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural changes in cells treated with poly(rI).poly(rC) after interferon priming.
- To identify specific cellular organelles affected by this treatment.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy was used to examine cellular ultrastructure.
- Cells were treated with interferon followed by poly(rI).poly(rC).
Main Results:
- Significant ultrastructural alterations were observed in mitochondria, including cristae swelling and matrix density increase.
- Nuclear structure showed disorganization.
- Endoplasmic reticulum exhibited dilatation, disorganization, and filament bundle depletion.
Conclusions:
- The observed ultrastructural changes in mitochondria, nucleus, and endoplasmic reticulum precede the cytotoxic effect of poly(rI).poly(rC).
- It is uncertain whether these alterations are primary effects or secondary to an unknown functional defect.
- These changes may serve as indicators of incipient cell death.