Heterogeneity in the effect of albumin and other resuscitation fluids on intracellular oxygen free radical production.

BACKGROUND

We hypothesized that by studying a suspension of a single cell type in various resuscitation fluids, we could compare their effects on parameters associated with cell death.

METHODS

Jurkat cells were suspended in resuscitation fluids. Using flow cytometry, light scatter, phosphatidylserine translocation, propidium iodide uptake, and intracellular H2O2 production were measured.

RESULTS

Buffer (pH, 7.4) and albumin added to Ringer's lactate inhibited the adverse changes, including intracellular oxygen free radical production. Oxygen free radical production was variable within the cell population and inhibited by albumin but not other colloids or crystalloids. This correlated well with the ability of albumin to enhance metabolic activity. A flavoprotein inhibitor blocked H2O2 production, suggesting that mitochondria are the source of the H2O2 and the variability.

CONCLUSION

Oxygen free radical inhibition by albumin could explain both its beneficial and its harmful effects.