Calcium oxalate crystal-induced cytolysis in polymorphonuclear leukocytes and erythrocytes

Abstract

Calcium oxalate microcrystals induce cytolysis of rabbit polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN's) and hemolysis of human erythrocytes. The effects on erythrocytes can be distinguished from those on PMN's because cytolysis of the latter is suppressed by substances such as cytochalasin A and N-naphthyl maleimide, known phagocytosis inhibitors. Polyvinylpyridine-N-oxide, a powerful hydrogen acceptor, has no protective effect. Cell injury of PMN's and erythrocytes is potentiated in the presence of cations, whereas poly-D-glutamic acid and other negatively charged compounds have an opposite effect. The results suggest that positive charges on the crystals play an essential role in calcium oxalate-induced cytolysis of PMN's and erythrocytes.