Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a potent nephrotoxin and suspected to be involved in the etiology of Balkan endemic nephropathy. Nanomolar concentrations of this mycotoxin induce apoptosis in renal collecting duct-derived cells (MDCK-C7 cells, resembling principal cells). We studied the role of mitochondria in this process by inhibition of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, the F1FO-ATP synthase or by uncoupling. Also, the role of intra- and extracellular pH in apoptosis induction was investigated. Activation of caspase-3 and DNA ladder formation were used to monitor the apoptotic response. When cells were incubated with inhibitors of the mitochondrial respiratory chain or an inhibitor of the ATP-synthase, OTA-induced apoptosis was enhanced dramatically. Also, mitochondrial uncoupling potentiated the effects of OTA. OTA-induced apoptosis was not dependent on a decrease of the mitochondrial potential. Mitochondrial blockade led to medium acidification due to enhanced production of lactic acid. Artificial extracellular acidification potentiated OTA-induced caspase-3 activation. Artificial extracellular alkalization had no influence on caspase-3 activity. Intracellular pH after 24 hours exposure to inhibitors of mitochondria or acidic or alkaline media did not correlate with caspase-3 activity but correlated with caspase-3 activity when OTA was present: acidic intracellular pH (pHin) was associated with higher caspase-3 activity as compared to alkaline pHin. We conclude that extra- and intracellular pH are important factors in OTA-induced apoptosis in MDCK-C7 cells. The physiologically changing pH conditions in the collecting duct can thus alter or even aggravate the toxic effects of OTA.

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© 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel
2004
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