Protective Effects of Pentoxifylline on Methamphetamine Induced Cell Death in PC12 Cells

Methamphetamine abuse has been a global concern in the last few decades. An estimated 3.5 million people have been affected by methamphetamine abuse. Methamphetamine induces apoptosis in most cell lines. Pentoxyphilline, as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, can reduce methamphetamine-induced cell death by inflammation reduction.

PC12 cells were grown in a DMEM culture medium. Assays used in this study are listed below: MTT test for cell viability detection, LDH test for cytotoxicity measurement, caspase activity colorimetric assay kit (Bio-techne) for caspase- 3 activity diagnosis, Rhodamine 123 for detection of mitochondrial membrane potential, fluorescence microscope for measurement of antioxidant enzyme activities.

Pentoxyphilline increased cell viability and the Rhodamine-123 absorbance. Besides, it reduced cell cytotoxicity, caspase-3 activity, and (OH) generation in all concentrations of 1 nM to 100 μM (P<0.05) by an optimal concentration of 100 μM.

In conclusion, Pentoxyphilline, as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, can significantly reduce methamphetamineinduced cell death through its anti-inflammatory effects.