Dose-Dependent Effects of Papaverine on Cell Viability, Morphology, and Dopaminergic Gene Expression in Human Glial-Derived A172 Cells
Joonwon Kim
Handsworth Secondary, North Vancouver, Canada
Publication date: November 20, 2025
Handsworth Secondary, North Vancouver, Canada
Publication date: November 20, 2025
DOI: http://doi.org/10.34614/JIYRC2025II03
ABSTRACT
Papaverine, a non-opioid alkaloid with vasodilatory properties, has been clinically used, but its effects on brain cells remain poorly understood. This study investigated the dose-dependent effects of papaverine on human glial-derived A172 cells, focusing on cell viability, morphology, and expression of dopaminergic and neurotrophic genes. A172 cells were treated with increasing concentrations of papaverine (0.25–5.0 mM) for 48 hours. Cell viability was assessed using fluorescence-based cell counting, and gene expression of TH, DRD2, and BDNF was measured using quantitative PCR (qPCR). Low concentrations (0.25–0.6 mM) induced minor cytotoxicity and upregulated gene expression, while higher concentrations (≥1.0 mM) significantly reduced viability and suppressed gene expression. Morphological analysis showed increased cellular branching at low doses, suggesting adaptive responses. These results reveal papaverine's dualistic role—adaptive at low concentrations but neurotoxic at high doses—highlighting the importance of dose consideration in neuropharmacology.
Papaverine, a non-opioid alkaloid with vasodilatory properties, has been clinically used, but its effects on brain cells remain poorly understood. This study investigated the dose-dependent effects of papaverine on human glial-derived A172 cells, focusing on cell viability, morphology, and expression of dopaminergic and neurotrophic genes. A172 cells were treated with increasing concentrations of papaverine (0.25–5.0 mM) for 48 hours. Cell viability was assessed using fluorescence-based cell counting, and gene expression of TH, DRD2, and BDNF was measured using quantitative PCR (qPCR). Low concentrations (0.25–0.6 mM) induced minor cytotoxicity and upregulated gene expression, while higher concentrations (≥1.0 mM) significantly reduced viability and suppressed gene expression. Morphological analysis showed increased cellular branching at low doses, suggesting adaptive responses. These results reveal papaverine's dualistic role—adaptive at low concentrations but neurotoxic at high doses—highlighting the importance of dose consideration in neuropharmacology.
