Adriamycin inhibits the formation of non-bilayer lipid structures in cardiolipin-containing model membranes.

The effect of adriamycin on cardiolipin-containing model membrane systems have been studied by 31P-NMR, freeze-fracture electron microscopy and binding experiments. Adriamycin effectively inhibits the formation of non-bilayer lipid structures induced by Ca2+ and cytochrome c in cardiolipin-containing liposomes. This drug also strongly inhibits the uptake of Ca2+ by cardiolipin into an organic phase. These results are discussed in relation to the cardiotoxic effect of adriamycin and the possible importance of non-bilayer lipid structures for the functioning of the mitochondrion.