Induction of apoptosis in AK-5 cells by rotenone involves participation ofcaspases

AK-5 tumour cells undergo apoptosis after treatment with rotenone an electr on transport inhibitor and oligomycin which inhibits mitochondrial ATPases. Apoptotic process involves the induction of caspases 2 and 3, whereas casp ase 1 does not seem to be participating in rotenone/oligomycin induced apop tosis. DEVD which is a specific inhibitor of caspase 3, inhibited apoptosis in AK-5 cells. We have also observed a significant lowering of intracellul ar pH in AK-5 cells which are induced into the apoptotic process by rotenon e. These results suggest an important role for mitochondrial electron trans port in the induction of apoptosis in AK-5 tumour cells.