Induction of apoptosis in macrophages by cationic liposomes

The effects of liposomes on apoptosis in macrophages were evaluated from DN A content and DNA fragmentation. Cationic liposomes composed of different k inds of cationic lipids induced apoptosis in mouse splenic macrophages and the macrophage-like cell line, RAW264.7 cells. Generation of reactive oxyge n radicals from macrophages treated with cationic liposomes was detected us ing flow cytometry, and further apoptosis was inhibited by the addition of oxidant scavenger, N-acetylcysteine. From these findings, the production of reactive oxygen species may be important in the regulation of apoptosis in duced by cationic liposomes, (C) 1999 Federation of European Biochemical So cieties.