Biochemical and Morphological Effects of Various Gases on Rabbit Erythrocytes

Abstract

In vitro studies with 26 different gases have indicated that these compounds are capable of altering the morphology of rabbit erythrocytes, as well as the pH level, electropohoretic pattern, and absorption maxima of isolated hemoglobin. Observed cellular changes included color variations from white to black, crenation, and severe distortion. Electrophoretic patterns of rabbit hemoglobin varied from those of the controls by exhibiting loss of one or more protein bands. Absorption spectra maxima of some gas-exposed rabbit hemoglobins differed from the controls by showing a decrease or increase of absorption at various wavelengths. Adenosine triphosphate levels seemed to be dependent upon pH levels and could not be used to determine cell damage by the gases.