Hexavalent chromium disrupts the actin cytoskeleton and induces mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in human dermal fibroplasts

Abstract

Exposure to hexavalent chromium causes various adverse effects including deep skin ulcerations and allergic dermatitis. Because of many potential intracellular targets for hexaval are not entirely understood.

To investigate the role of the cytoskeleton and mitochondria in this process, primary human dermal fibroplasts were exposed to various concentrations of potassium chromate for 24 h. The followed markers included cell motility, cytoskeletal organization, oxidative stress, mitochondrial activity and activation of the apoptotic cascade.

Potassium chromate (1.5-45 mikroM) induced time- and concentration-dependent cell shrinkage, reorganization of cytoskeleton and loss of motile activity in fibroplasts. In some cells this was followed by membrane blebbing.

Dynamic changes in cell morphology were accompanied with the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, increased oxidative stress and release of cytochrome c.