Induction of apoptosis in macrophages by cationic liposomes.

The effects of liposomes on apoptosis in macrophages were evaluated from DNA content and DNA fragmentation. Cationic liposomes composed of different kinds of cationic lipids induced apoptosis in mouse splenic macrophages and the macrophage-like cell line, RAW264.7 cells. Generation of reactive oxygen radicals from macrophages treated with cationic liposomes was detected using flow cytometry, and further apoptosis was inhibited by the addition of oxidant scavenger, N-acetylcysteine. From these findings, the production of reactive oxygen species may be important in the regulation of apoptosis induced by cationic liposomes.