Pyrogallol-induced endothelial cell death is related to GSH depletion rather than ROS level changes

Pyrogallol (PG) as a polyphenol compound induces apoptosis in several types of cells. Here, we evaluated the effects of PG on endothelial cells (ECs), especially calf pulmonary artery endothelial cells (CPAEC) in relation to the cell growth, ROS and glutathione (GSH) levels. PG dose-dependently inhibited the growth of CPAEC and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) at 24 h. PG also induced apoptosis in CPAEC, which was accompanied by the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP; Δψ_m). PG decreased ROS level including O₂^.- and PG dose-dependently increased GSH depleted cell number in both EC types. Nacetyl-cysteine (NAC; a well-known antioxidant) increased ROS levels in PG-treated CPAEC with the prevention of cell death and GSH depletion. In conclusion, PG inhibited the growth of ECs, especially CPAEC via apoptosis. PG-induced EC death was related to GSH depletion rather than ROS level changes.