[Mechanism of the cytotoxic action of the natural zeolite clinoptilolite].

Interaction between the natural ceolite clinoptilolite and cell suspensions has been investigated using rat peritoneal macrophages and erythrocytes. The ceolite under study has been demonstrated to exhibit a high hemolytic activity and cytotoxicity. The viability of macrophages was evaluated from the incorporation of trypane blue. The ability of macrophages to phagocytosis was measured by chemiluminescence with luminol. The modification of clinoptilolite surface by ammonia ions led to a decrease in its cytotoxic properties. Ethanol, mannit and sodium azide did not affect whereas catalase appreciably reduced the ability of CPT to damage the membranes of macrophages and red cells. The role of hydrogen peroxide in the mechanism of cell membrane damage is discussed.