Studies of Liposomal bcl-2 Antisense Oligodeoxynucleotide Induction of Apoptosis in Raji Cells

OBJECTIVE To explore the effect of liposomal G3139 and transfected antisense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotides directed against the coding region of the bcl-2 messenger RNA and the translation site on apoptosis in Raji cells.

METHODS Cytotoxic effects were measured by use of the MTT method; The expression levels of Bcl-2 protein were assayed by immunofluorescence using a fluoresce isothiocyanate label. Apoptosis was determined by morphological observation and flow cytometric analysis.

RESULTS The 2 antisense oligonucleotides and G3139 can reduce Bcl-2 protein levels and Raji cell viability (IC₅₀=4.54, 4.72 and 4.26 μmol/L, respectively), and induce apoptosis. A scrambled sequence control oligonucleotide and empty liposomes did not alter cell viability, Bcl-2 protein expression or apoptosis rates. There was no difference in reducing Bcl-2 protein levels and apoptosis rates found among the 3 antisense oligonucleotides.

CONCLUSION The 2 antisense oligodeoxynucleotides of bcl-2 messenger RNA can effectively induce apoptosis of Raji cells. The 2 antisense sequences and G3139 have a similarity in their antisense effect.