Lithium enhances the proliferation of HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells.
The effects of lithium, an agent used in the treatment of manic depression and to attenuate myelosuppression during chemotherapy, on HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells were investigated. By monitoring cell growth at varying concentrations (0-50 mM), as well as by following cell proliferation over 8 days, it was established that lithium stimulates HL-60 proliferation within a very narrow concentration range. Enhancement of growth was optimal at 5 mM, whereas concentrations above 10 mM were toxic. Time course studies revealed that the greatest increase in cell number occurred after 5-6 days in the presence of lithium. This was preceded by DNA synthesis reaching a maximum after 1-2 days. Viability of the cells decreased gradually after 3 days with 5 mM, but not with 2.5 mM. We suggest that HL-60 cells are a suitable model to further investigate possible mitogenic and cytotoxic effects of lithium in vitro.
Becker
R W
RW
Department of Biochemistry, University of the North, South Africa.
Tyobeka
E M
EM
D002455:Cell Division; D002470:Cell Survival / Q000187:drug effects; D004273:DNA, Neoplasm / Q000096:biosynthesis; D006801:Humans; D015473:Leukemia, Promyelocytic, Acute / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D008094:Lithium / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D013268:Stimulation, Chemical; D014407:Tumor Cells, Cultured / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology
D004273:DNA, Neoplasm; D008094:Lithium