Chromosomal, mitochondrial and metabolic alterations in SV40-transformed rabbit chondrocytes

Karyotype, mitochondrial ultrastructure and several enzymatic activities were studied in two clones, D22 and D27, from SV40-transformed rabbit chondrocytes. Similar chromosome alterations, with recurrent losses and gains were observed at the various passages. Mitochondria were rare, with increase in size and crest alterations. By comparison to non-transformed rabbit chondrocytes, activities of superoxide dismutase 1 and 2 (SOD) and glutathione peroxidases were increased, those of glutathione reductase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and glutathione-S-transferase fluctuated according to passages, thymidylate synthase decreased