Work

Cytochalasin B: Lack of Effect on Mucopolysaccharide Synthesis and Selective Alterations in Precursor Uptake

Year: 1972

Type: article

Abstract: Synthesis and secretion of mucopolysaccharide in mouse 3T3 fibroblasts and in embryonic submandibular glands are unaffected by amounts of cytochalasin B that alter the morphology of these cells and tissues. The drug markedly and reversibly inhibits incorporation of [(3)H]glucosamine into mucopolysaccharide by preventing cellular uptake of the precursor, but does not affect incorporation of radiosulfate. Cytochalasin does not alter DNA, RNA, or protein synthesis, but stimulates the uptake of orotic acid and markedly inhibits the uptake of glucose. These selective effects on the transport of small molecules suggest that the primary action of the drug may be on cell membranes. Since processes unrelated to microfilament disruption may be altered by cytochalasin, great caution must be exercised in interpreting studies with the drug.

Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

DOI: 10.1073/pnas.69.10.2865

Authors: Ronald H. Cohn, Shib D. Banerjee, Earl R. Shelton, Merton R. Bernfield

Institutions: Stanford Medicine, Stanford University

Language: English

Topic: Proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans research

Subfield: Cell Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: March of Dimes Foundation, National Institutes of Health