Redistribution of cytochrome c precedes the caspase-dependent formation of ultracondensed mitochondria, with a reduced inner membrane potential, in apoptotic monocytes.

Apoptosis was induced in human monocytic THP.1 cells by the use of chemicals with disparate mechanisms of action. Apoptotic cells were characterized by a reduced inner mitochondrial membrane potential, increased cytosolic cytochrome c, ultracondensed mitochondria, condensed chromatin, cytoplasmic inclusions of beta-actin, and fragmentation of the Golgi apparatus. All of these changes, except the release of cytochrome c, were prevented by caspase inhibition. Cells were separated into two populations, with either normal or low inner mitochondrial membrane potential, using fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Ultracondensed mitochondria were observed only in the cells with low inner mitochondrial membrane potential, whereas noncondensed mitochondria were found in the cells with a normal inner mitochondrial membrane potential. We have demonstrated a sequence of related biochemical and ultrastructural changes, commencing with the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c, followed by activation of caspases and a reduction of inner mitochondrial membrane potential. These changes involved the formation of ultracondensed but not swollen mitochondria. Thus the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c was not the result of the mitochondrial permeability transition, reduction of inner mitochondrial membrane potential, or rupture of the outer mitochondrial membrane. Discontinuities in the outer membrane of ultracondensed mitochondria may, however, facilitate the further release of caspase-activating proteins, thereby amplifying the apoptotic process.