Lysolecithin induction of cell fusion.

Abstract

The phospholipid lysolecithin was tested in various concentrations, temperatures and environments for its effects on cell fusion, disintegration and mortality. Cholesterol and mineral oil were both assayed for their actions in reducing cell loss. Temperature extremes both high and low proved to be cytotoxic and cytolytic although higher temperatures increased cell fusion events. Cholesterol was found to be of little significance in decreasing lysolecithin's cytotoxic effects. Mineral oil solutions of lysolecithin did not significantly improve cell survival, but these mineral oil solutions proved to be significant in the fusion of cells without the presence of lysolecithin. A mechanism is proposed for this mineral oil induced cell fusion.