Microcalorimetric investigation of the effect of La3+ on mitochondria isolated from avian chicken liver tissue cells

A microcalorimetric technique was used to evaluate the influence of La³⁺ on mitochondria isolated from the liver tissue of Avian chicken. By means of LKB-2277 bioactivity monitor, ampoule method at 37°C, we obtained the thermogenic curves of the metabolism of mitochondria. After isolation from the chicken liver tissue, mitochondria still have metabolic activity and can live for a long time depending on the stored nutrients. In order to analyze the results, the maximum power (P _m) and the decline rate constants (k _d) were obtained. The addition of La³⁺ results in an increase of the maximum heat production and decline rate constants. Furthermore, values of P _m and k _d are linked to the concentration of La³⁺. According to the thermogenic curves under different conditions, it is clear that metabolic mechanism of mitochondria has been changed with the addition of La³⁺. This revised version was published online in August 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.