title: EGF-ricin A conjugates: kinetic profiles of cytotoxic effects and resistant cell variants.
abstract: We have conjugated epidermal growth factor (EGF) with the A subunit of ricin (RICa) via a dithiopropionyl linkage. The EGF-RICa conjugate was competitive with [125I]EGF for binding to cell surface EGF receptors. Entry of the conjugate into cells was seen within 10 min at 37 degrees C and inhibition of protein synthesis was seen within 90 min. The blockage of protein synthesis continued for more than 20 h in sensitive cells. Protein synthesis in EGF receptor-deficient cells was not affected. The conjugate killed human epidermoid carcinoma (A431) cells, mouse 3T3 fibroblasts and Chinese hamster lung (CHL) cells with identical efficiencies (ED50 = 2 X 10(-9) M). The EGF-RICa conjugate was used as a selection agent and several resistant variants were isolated from CHL cells. These variants showed various degrees of [125I]EGF binding capacity. Some other characteristics of the variants are also described.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002460:Cell Line; D006224:Cricetinae; D003412:Cricetulus; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000378:metabolism; D066246:ErbB Receptors; D005260:Female; D046911:Macromolecular Substances; D010053:Ovary; D014176:Protein Biosynthesis; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface / Q000032:analysis* / Q000378:metabolism; D012276:Ricin / Q000031:analogs & derivatives / Q000633:toxicity
chemical_list: D046911:Macromolecular Substances; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor; D012276:Ricin; D066246:ErbB Receptors