Protection by Cepharanthie of the Mitochondrial Function from Damage Induced by Snake Venom, Phospholipase A<SUB>2</SUB>, Lysolecithin and Lead

Abstract

The action of cepharanthie, a biscoclaurine alkaloid, on disturbances of the mitochondrial function caused by snake venom, phospholipase A2, lysolecithin, lead and high temperature was examined. The alkaloid protected mitochondria from damage caused by these treatments. The results suggest that the alkaloid protects biomembranes from various damage with no effect of its own at a low concentration.