Skip to Content
MilliporeSigma
  • Carcinogen-induced, free radical-mediated reduction in microsomal membrane fluidity: reversal by indole-3-propionic acid.

Carcinogen-induced, free radical-mediated reduction in microsomal membrane fluidity: reversal by indole-3-propionic acid.

Journal of bioenergetics and biomembranes (2001-07-20)
M Karbownik, J J Garcia, A Lewiński, R J Reiter
ABSTRACT

Chromium (Cr) is a well established carcinogen, with Cr(III) accounting for much of the intracellular oxidative damage that this transition metal induces. Indole-3-propionic acid (IPA), a melatonin-related molecule, is a reported antioxidant and free radical scavenger. Concentration (1, 10, 100, 500, or 1000 microM) and time (15, 30, 45, 60, or 90 min)-dependent effects of Cr(III) in the presence of H2O2 (0.5 mM), as well as the protective effect of IPA on Cr(III)-induced alterations in membrane fluidity (the inverse of membrane rigidity), as an index of membrane damage, were estimated by fluorescence spectroscopy. Cr(III), in a concentration- and a time-dependent manner, decreased membrane fluidity, with marked effects at a concentration of 500 microM and 60 min of incubation. IPA (5, 3, or 1 mM) prevented the Cr(III)-induced decrease in membrane fluidity. It is concluded that the carcinogen Cr(III), in the presence of H202, generates free radicals, which decrease membrane fluidity in rat microsomal membranes. Membrane alterations are pharmacologically prevented by the antioxidant IPA.

MATERIALS
Product Number
Brand
Product Description

Sigma-Aldrich
Indole-3-propionic acid, ≥99.0% (T)
Sigma-Aldrich
Indole-3-propionic acid, ≥97.0% (T)
Sigma-Aldrich
3-Indolepropionic acid, ReagentPlus®, 99%