Pathological and ultrastructural changes in cultured cells induced by venom from the ectoparasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae)

▶ Venom induces ultrastructural changes in nucleus and nucleoli but not mitochondria. ▶ Venom-treated cells bind annexin v to plasma membranes within 15 min. ▶ Mitochondrial membrane potential is depressed in cells injured by venom. ▶ Extensive vacuolization occurred in the cytoplasm 3 h after venom treatment. ▶ Caspase 3 was activated in cells incubated with lethal doses of venom.