Effects of aluminum lactate on murine neuroblastoma cells.

Aluminum is the most abundant metal and the third most common element in the earth's crust. It's toxicity has emerged as one of the most serious complications in the treatment of chronic renal failure. Aluminum lactate [Al(lac)3], at concentrations less than those affecting cell viability (< 5 mM) decreased the capability of mouse neuroblastoma cells to incorporate 14C-leucine and 3H-thymidine. This decreased capability to synthesize protein and DNA was accompanied by extension of neurites, increased capacity of the cells to take up silver stain, and decreased reactivity to antibodies against neurofilaments and to lectins that recognize cell surface carbohydrate residues. In conclusion, Allac3 should be considered as a marked cytostatic as well as a strong neuritogenic agent.