RESUMEN
Objective To examine the effect of tetraethylammonium (TEA, K~+ channel blocker) on pancreatic ?-cell apoptosis and explore the mechanism. Methods Mouse ? cells (NIT cells) were exposed to streptozotocin(STZ) to induce apoptosis, and TEA of different concentrations were applied along with STZ to prevent efflux of intracellular K~+. Cells were stained with annexin V, PI and rhodamine 123. Flow cytometer (FCM) was used to determine the percent of apoptotic or viable cells and the change of mitochondrial membrane potential. Culture media was collected to quantify the content of NO and ROS produced by NIT-cells. Cells were collected for detecting the activity of super oxide dismutase (SOD) in cells lysates. Results STZ induced apoptosis of NIT cells significantly (P