Induction of mitochondrial Apo2.7 molecules and generation of reactive oxygen-intermediates in cultured lymphocytes by the toxic proteins from Viscum album L.

We analysed mitochondrial alterations in human lymphocytes incubated with toxins exerting RNA and/or protein synthesis/transport inhibitory activity. We found that all toxins known to affect macromolecule synthesis, such as ricin from Ricinus communis, mistletoe lectin I (ML I) from Viscum album, cycloheximide, actinomycin D, and brefeldin A but also the thionins from Viscum album (viscotoxins; VT) generated reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) and induced expression of newly described mitochondrial membrane proteins Apo2.7, however, with different kinetics. Apart from a rapid permeabilisation of cell membranes by the VT with swelling of mitochondria, loss of their cristae and ROI generation within 2–4 h, the majority of the cells may have received a distinct ‘death signal’ resulting in an induction of Apo2.7 molecules within 24 h. In contrast, protein synthesis/transport inhibition may signal for apoptosis within 24 h by decreasing distinct ‘survival promotors’ which remain to be characterised.