The action of mercury on cell membranes

Cell Mol Biol Lett. 2001;6(2A):299-304.

Abstract

The action of mercuric chloride and methyl mercuric chloride on the membrane lateral domain organization of bovine, equine, and canine erythrocytes was studied. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra of spin-labeled erythrocytes were analyzed with respect to their lateral domain structure. Continuous alteration of the membrane domain populations revealed that mercuric compounds affect the membrane via the evolution of toxic events in the cells.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cattle
  • Cell Membrane / drug effects*
  • Dogs
  • Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Erythrocytes / metabolism
  • Horses
  • Mercuric Chloride / pharmacology*
  • Methylmercury Compounds / pharmacology*
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary
  • Species Specificity
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Methylmercury Compounds
  • Mercuric Chloride
  • methylmercuric chloride