γ-Rays-generated ROS induce apoptosis via mitochondrial and cell cycle alteration in smooth muscle cells

Abstract

Purpose: γ-rays (IR) cause an increase in intracellular calcium Ca²⁺], alters contractility and triggers apoptosis via the activation of protein kinase C in intestinal guinea pig smooth muscle cells. The present study investigated the role of the mitochondria in these processes and characterized proteins involved in IR-induced apoptosis.

Materials and methods: Intestinal smooth muscle cells were exposed to 10–50 Gy from a ⁶⁰Co γ-source. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured by colourimetry with a fluorescente probe. Protein expression was analyzed by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence.

Results: Apoptosis was inhibited by glutathione, possible by inhibiting the generation or scavenging ROS. Apoptosis was mediated by the mitochondria releasing cytochrome c leading to caspase 3 activation. IR increased the expression of the cyclins A, B2 and E and led to unbalanced cellular growth in an absorption dose-dependent manner. However, radiation did not induce alterations in the mitochondrial ultrastructure or in transmembrane electric potential. In contrast, IR increased the nuclear expression of cytoplasmic proteins and cyclins A and E.

Conclusion: Smooth muscle cells subjected to IR undergo mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis that involves oncoproteins activation and preserves mitochondrial structure. IR also cause alterations in the expression and localization of both pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins.