Induction of apoptosis in AK-5 cells by rotenone involves participation of caspases
Khar, A.; Ali, A.M.; Begum, Z.; Pardhasaradhi, B.V.; Varalakshmi, C.
Indian Journal of Biochemistry and Biophysics 36(2): 77-81
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0301-1208 PMID: 10549166 Document Number: 505451
AK-5 tumour cells undergo apoptosis after treatment with rotenone an electron transport inhibitor and oligomycin which inhibits mitochondrial ATPases. Apoptotic process involves the induction of caspases 2 and 3, whereas caspase 1 does not seem to be participating in rotenone/oligomycin induced apoptosis. DEVD which is a specific inhibitor of caspase 3, inhibited apoptosis in AK-5 cells. We have also observed a significant lowering of intracellular pH in AK-5 cells which are induced into the apoptotic process by rotenone. These results suggest an important role for mitochondrial electron transport in the induction of apoptosis in AK-5 tumour cells.