Copper induces permeability transition through its interaction with the adenine nucleotide translocase.

In this work we examined the effect of low concentrations of Cu(2+) on the opening of the mitochondrial non-specific pore. The purpose was addressed to further contribute to the knowledge of the mechanisms that regulate the open/closed cycles of the permeability transition pore. Membrane leakage was established by measuring matrix Ca(2+) efflux and mitochondrial swelling. The experimental results indicate that Cu(2+) at very low concentrations promoted the release of accumulated Ca(2+), as well as mitochondrial swelling, provided 1,10-phenanthroline has been added. Carboxyatractyloside and Cu(2+) exhibited additive effects on these parameters. After Cu(2+) titration of membrane thiols, it might be assumed that the blockage of 5.9nmol of SH/mg protein suffices to open the non-specific pore. Taking into account the reinforcing effect of carboxyatractyloside, the increasing ADP concentrations, and that N-ethylmaleimide inhibited the Cu(2+)-induced Ca(2+) efflux, it is proposed that the target site for Cu(2+) is located in the ADP/ATP carrier.