Effect of cadmium on changes in concentration of adenine nucleotides induced by mitochondria

The effect of Cd2+ on the respiration of rat liver mitochondria was investigated. The uncoupling effect of Cd2+ was partially restored by the addition of Mg2+. The influence of Cd2+ on adenine nucleotide concentrations in the reaction mixture consisting of mitochondria and ATP was also studied using high performance liquid chromatography. In the presence of added Mg2+, a two-fold increase in AMP concentration was brought about by the addition of Cd2+. There was a concomitant decrease in ATP. In the prence of added ADP, an increase in AMP concentration was also brought about by addition of Cd2+. The results are discussed in relation to ATPase and adenylate kinase activity in mitochondria.