Co[Cl.sub.2] induces apoptosis via the 18 kDa translocator protein in U118MG human glioblastoma cells

The specific 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) ligand, PK 11195, as well as TSPO knockdown with siRNA are used to determine their influence on the effects of Co[Cl.sub.2] on cell death, including activation of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. The results showed that activation of TSPO by Co[Cl.sub.2] application is required for ROS generation that result in cardiolipin oxidation, and collapse of the [Delta][psi]m, as induced by Co[Cl.sub.2].