Reversible inhibition of DNA, RNA and protein synthesis in human cells by lead chloride.

An acute intoxication by lead chloride (conc. 2.5 - 10(-4)M) produces a temporary reduction of macromolecular syntheses in HeLa cells growing asynchronously. The reduction is similar for DNA, RNA and proteins and differs only in the intensity. After a one-day intoxication, if the cells are put back in a fresh medium, the syntheses return to normal within 10 h. The histochemical sulphide-silver method shows that lead is present in the cells during the inhibition.