Cellular and Tissue Injury During Nonfreezing Cold Injury and Frostbite
Abstract
It is well established that lowering temperature leads to an increase in the viscosity of biological membranes. This temperature-induced change in membrane viscosity is associated with a phase change in membrane phospholipids from liquid crystalline to the gel state. These transitions have been purported to induce concomitant decreases in the activity of transmembrane ion pumps, which can alter a cell's ability to maintain transmembrane ionic gradients and volume. For example, the cytosolic free calcium ions over a 100-fold gradient. High calcium levels can activate proteases and lipases, which could lead to cell destruction. However, the actual link between pump activity and membrane state has been the source of a great deal of controversy
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA265546
Entities
People
- K. G. Brockbank