CYTOSKELETAL MODIFICATIONS INDUCED BY 4-HYDROXYNONENAL

The antiproliferative action of 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) could be relate d to an interaction with cytoskeletal structures. In this paper the ef fects exerted by HNE on microtubules and on microfilaments are examine d by immunofluorescence. HNE alters cell morphology causing both the d epolymerization of the microtubular structures and the dissolution of the stress-fibres. Taxol protects microtubules, preventing the depolym erizing effect of the aldehyde. The action of HNE could be attributed to its affinity for sulphydryl groups, which are essential in maintain ing tubulin and actin both in the polymerized form.