Role of p38 protein kinase in heat-induced Raw cells apoptosis

Objective To elucidate the role of p38 in heat-induced apoptosis in the monocytic cell line Raw264.7. Methods Apoptosis was detected using flow cytometric analysis, DNA electrophoresis, Westero blot and a protein kinase assay. Results A marked increased in p38 activity was detected 15 min after heating and reached maximal activity 30 min post stimulation, then returned to the pre-stimulated level 2 h later. The percentage of apoptotic cells was obviously increased 3 h after heating. Stimulation of p38 preceded the induction of apoptosis, and the p38 specific inhibitor, FHPI, can inhibit thermal injury induced cell apoptosis. Conclusions p38 activation is required for heat-induced apoptosis in Raw264.7 cells, and stimulation of the p38 signaling pathway contributes to cell death.