Microcalorimetry as a tool for Cr(VI) toxicity evaluation of human dermal fibroblasts

Occupational exposure to Cr(VI) causes various effects including deep skin ulcerations. Its action mechanisms are not fully understood. In the present study, the evaluation of human dermal fibroblasts heat production was monitored, using microcalorimetry. as part of Cr(VI) toxicity. In control cells, normal heat production was 15±5 pW/cell. Regardless of the Cr(VI) concentration tested (0 to 500 μM), heat production was inhibited over time periods ranging from 3 to 25 h. These results could be correlated with cell mortality and the IC₅₀ for Cr(VI) was 29±4 μM. In the WST-1 bioassay, the IC₅₀ was 35±5 μM (no statistical difference). Thus, Cr(VI) altered the metabolism of the fibroblasts, and led to cellular death. Microcalorimetry can be a useful tool for determining the toxic effect of suspect compounds implicated in the occurrence of pathologies.