Malignant cell autolysis caused by intracytoplasmic liberation of lysosomal enzymes

Cell Biol Int Rep. 1990 Mar;14(3):255-66. doi: 10.1016/s0309-1651(05)80008-6.

Abstract

An ultrastructural study of the action of peptidoglycans on malignant lymphocytes was made. Glycans acted upon lysosomes labilizing and rupturing the lysosomal membrane. Lysosomal enzymes were discharged directly into the cell cytoplasm. Nucleus, mitochondria and all organelles were digested in situ, resulting in a completely structureless cell. Finally, cancerous cells disintegrated by the detachment of cytoplasmic fragments.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autolysis*
  • Cytoplasm / metabolism*
  • Lymphoma / metabolism*
  • Lymphoma / ultrastructure
  • Lysosomes / enzymology*
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Microscopy, Electron
  • Peptidoglycan / pharmacology*
  • Time Factors
  • Tumor Cells, Cultured

Substances

  • Peptidoglycan