Objective: To study the role of Bcl-2 and Bax protein contents and their gene expression in Al-induced neurons apoptosis.
Methods: Neurons from 0 - 3 day rats were cultured and treated with different concentrations of AlCl(3 x 6) H2O. The cell apoptosis was observed by the TUNEL method and under the scan electron microscope. Bcl-2 and Bax protein contents were detected by the immunochemistry method while their gene expressions were measured by the RT-PCR method.
Results: (1) DNA fractions in the TUNEL method increased with the rising aluminum concentration. Blebbings and apoptosis bodies on the surface of the neurons were clearly observed under the scan electron microscope. (2) Bcl-2 protein contents and their gene expression decreased with the rising aluminum concentration (P < 0.01, r = -0.695; P < 0.05, r = -0.647), while Bax increased at the same time (P < 0.01, r = 0.676; P < 0.01, r = 0.794), the value of Bcl-2/Bax was related with the aluminum concentration (P < 0.01, r = -0.655; P < 0.01, r = -0.777).
Conclusion: The aluminum may induce neurons apoptosis. Bcl-2 and Bax protein contents and their gene expression may play an important role in Al-induced apoptosis.