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Plasma membrane vesiculation: a cellular response to injury
Virchows Archiv. B, Cell Pathology
|June 19, 1978
Summary
Formaldehyde exposure causes plasma membrane vesiculation in cells, hindering nutrient transport and growth. This indicates that membrane shedding is a sign of cell injury that impedes cellular metabolism and proliferation.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Toxicology
Background:
- Plasma membrane vesiculation can be induced by formaldehyde and sulfhydryl blocking agents.
- This process is energy-dependent, requiring Ca++ and physiological temperatures.
- Cells undergoing vesiculation may appear intact but exhibit subtle signs of injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the compatibility of plasma membrane vesiculation with cell growth and metabolism.
- To determine the relationship between formaldehyde-induced vesiculation and cellular functions.
Main Methods:
- 3T3 mouse embryo cells were exposed to varying concentrations of formaldehyde (2.5-250 mM) for 15-60 minutes.
- Cells were washed to attempt reversal of formaldehyde effects.
- Assays were performed for plasma membrane vesicle shedding, 2-deoxy-D-glucose transport, and cell growth over seven days.
Main Results:
- An inverse relationship was observed between plasma membrane vesicle shedding and the cells' ability to transport nutrients.
- Cellular growth was significantly inhibited in cells exhibiting plasma membrane vesiculation.
- Formaldehyde exposure led to a dose- and time-dependent shedding of plasma membrane vesicles.
Conclusions:
- Plasma membrane vesiculation induced by formaldehyde is associated with impaired cellular metabolism and growth.
- The shedding of plasma membrane vesicles is indicative of cell injury that compromises essential cellular functions.
- These findings suggest that formaldehyde-induced vesiculation is a marker for cytotoxic effects on cells.