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Partitioning apoptosis: A novel form of the execution phase of apoptosis

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Abstract

Apoptosis is characterized by chromatin condensation, DNA cleavage, redistribution of phosphatidylserine, and apoptotic body formation via an actin-dependent process. We describe a novel form of the execution phase of apoptosis in human multiple myeloma cells that is morphologically and mechanistically distinct from classical apoptosis, but is caspase-dependent and inhibited by IL-6 and overexpression of Bcl-2. Electron microscopic analysis of these cells demonstrated chromatin condensation without nuclear fragmentation, and ‘partitioning’ of cell constituents into two components: a single, large bleb containing soluble protein and free ribosomes, and a region containing the nucleus, organelles, and RER. In some cases, the bleb separated, becoming a free vesicle exhibiting random kinetic motion. These morphologic features occurred despite inhibition of the actin and tubulin cytoskeletal systems. This novel form of apoptosis, called partitioning apoptosis, was observed in a variety of tumor cell types and in primary cells. The execution phase of apoptosis can occur in a manner that is morphologically and mechanistically distinct from classical apoptosis.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, 21201

    B. Zhang, Z. Arany, D. Mann, J. G. Rhee & R. G. Fenton MD, PhD

  2. Department of Pathology, University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, 21201

    Z. Arany & D. Mann

  3. Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, 21201

    J. G. Rhee

Authors
  1. B. Zhang
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  2. Z. Arany
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  3. D. Mann
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  4. J. G. Rhee
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  5. R. G. Fenton MD, PhD
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to R. G. Fenton MD, PhD.

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Zhang, B., Arany, Z., Mann, D. et al. Partitioning apoptosis: A novel form of the execution phase of apoptosis. Apoptosis 10, 219–231 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10495-005-6077-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10495-005-6077-4

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