Characterization of hemolytic activity of 3-alkylpyridinium polymers from the marine sponge Reniera sarai.

Abstract

Polymeric alkylpyridinium salts (poly-APS) isolated from the marine sponge Reniera sarai act as potent anticholinesterase agents; in addition they show moderate hemolytic and cytotoxic activities. The hemolytic activity of poly-APS is due to their detergent-like structure and behavior in aqueous solutions. In this work, the hemolytic activity of poly-APS is analyzed and compared to that of structurally-related monomeric cationic surfactants. The influence of different divalent cations and lipids on poly-APS induced hemolysis is discussed. The dimensions of lesions caused by poly-APS in erythrocyte membranes are determined by the use of osmotic protectants. Finally, the possible role of poly-APS in their natural environment is proposed.

• Authors: P Malovrh, K Sepcić, T Turk, P Macek
• Journal: Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part C, Pharmacology, toxicology & endocrinology (Comp Biochem Physiol C Pharmacol Toxicol Endocrinol) Vol. 124 Issue 2 Pg. 221-6 (Oct 1999) ISSN: 1367-8280 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10622439 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Cations, Divalent
• Pyridines

Topics

• Animals
• Cations, Divalent
• Cattle
• Hemolysis (drug effects)
• Porifera (chemistry)
• Pyridines (isolation & purification, pharmacology)