| Popis: |
neuroglioblastoma cells were grown in culture medium containing either 10−3, 10−6 or 10−9 M cocaine for 1–3 days. Some cultures were assessed for viability while others were processed for electron microscopy. Following 1–3 days of cocaine, no cytoplasmic alterations were observed compared to control; however, numerous dense bodies were present in some cells cultured with the highest doses. After 2 days of treatment with 10−3 and 10−6 M cocaine, nuclear invaginations were found filled with vesicles, and the nuclear membrane surrounding the vesicles was disrupted. Following 3 days of treatment with 10−3 and 10−6 M cocaine, patches of vesicles and tubules were also seen in the nucleus, but without surrounding membranes. The vesicles ranged in size from 0.05 to 0.8 μm. Cell counts revealed a significant slowing in the rate of cell division after two days of exposure to 10−3 M cocaine. All concentrations of cocaine caused a significant decrease in cell viability by the third day of treatment. These results suggest that cocaine may interfere with cell replication and also may have a neurotoxic effect. Cocaine NG108-15 Electron microscopy Neuroblastoma Cell culture Nucleus Ultrastructure |
