What Are the Histological Consequences of ATP Depletion?
ATP depletion triggers a cascade of events that can severely impact cell structure and function. The most notable histological consequences include:
- Cell Swelling: Due to the failure of ATP-dependent sodium-potassium pumps, leading to an influx of sodium and water. - Membrane Integrity Loss: ATP is essential for maintaining the integrity of cell membranes. Depletion can result in membrane blebbing and rupture. - Disruption of Protein Synthesis: Energy is required for the assembly of ribosomes and protein synthesis machinery. ATP depletion hampers these processes, leading to protein synthesis arrest. - Increased Intracellular Calcium: ATP depletion disrupts calcium homeostasis, leading to increased intracellular calcium, which can activate destructive enzymes.
