Lithium-induced modiphication of the physicochemical state of membrane proteins and lipids in human erythrocytes

Abstract

The effect of various concentrations of lithium sulfate on human erythrocytes in vitro has been studied. It has been shown that the effect of lithium salt in maximum pharmacological and toxic concentrations on cells leads to a modification of the physicochemical state of membrane-bound proteins and lipids. It was found that in human erythrocytes exposed to lithium ions, there is a decrease in the activity of membrane-bound acetylcholinesterase and methgemoglobin reductase, as well as a change in the microviscosity of the lipid bilayer of membranes. The results obtained can be used to create a cell test system for assessing the toxicity of lithium compounds.