Document Type : Short Paper

Authors

1 PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, University of Brunei Darussalam, Brunei Darussalam

2 PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, University of Brunei Darussalam, Brunei Darussalam, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

Abstract

Background: Cytosolic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is an important ‘molecular signature’ for the detection of intracellular viral infections. Although intracellular dsRNA is a known potent inducer of apoptosis, the optimal time and dose for the onset of dsRNA-mediated apoptosis have not been studied in detail. Objective: To perform an accurate temporal assessment of the cell death responses in dsRNA-dependent cytotoxicity. Methods: Poly I:C (PIC), a synthetic dsRNA molecule was delivered intracellularly into J774.1 and RAW264.7 murine macrophages via electroporation. Cell viability was measured using the MTT assay and apoptosis was determined by sub-G0/G1 DNA content using flow cytometry. Results: Loss of cell viability was seen as early as 3h post-electroporation of macrophages. A significant increase in the sub-G0/G1 DNA content consistent with apoptosis was observed in PIC-electroporated macrophages as early as 3h post electroporation. Conclusion: Intracellular PIC delivery induces rapid macrophage cell death.

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