Benzalkonium chloride interferes with energy production, secretion and morphology in human blood platelets

Abstract

Benzalkonium chloride (BC) is a bactericidal compound used as a topical antiseptic and as a preservative in various products for local treatment, e.g., eye and nose drops. BC is toxic to human cells, including those of the respiratory mucosa. Few studies have, however, focused on what cellular functions BC interferes with. The effects of BC were studied on washed human blood platelets in vitro. Cellular energy production as well as secretion were studied. Incubation of platelets with BC resulted in rapid swelling and toxic morphological changes. After incubation with BC oxidation of [1-¹⁴C] palmitate was inhibited, and both lactate dehydrogenase and endogenous serotonin were spontaneously released. Thrombin-induced secretion of serotonin was strongly reduced after BC exposure. Histological changes with increased size, spherical form, decreased numbers of pseudopodia, loss of an intact continuous tubulus system and reduced number of granules were found by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. It is concluded that the toxic effects of BC are because of interference with membrane function and energy production.

Key Words:

• benzalkonium chloride
• granule functions
• [1-¹⁴C] palmitic acid oxidation
• platelets
• platelet activation
• platelet morphology
• platelet secretion