Switch of voltage-gated K+ channel expression in the plasma membrane of chondrogenic cells affects cytosolic Ca2+-oscillations and cartilage formation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Understanding the key elements of signaling of chondroprogenitor cells at the earliest steps of differentiation may substantially improve our opportunities for the application of mesenchymal stem cells in cartilage tissue engineering, which is a promising approach of regenerative therapy of joint diseases. Ion channels, membrane potential and Ca(2+)-signaling are important regulators of cell proliferation and differentiation. Our aim was to identify such plasma membrane ion channels involved in signaling during chondrogenesis, which may serve as specific molecular targets for influencing chondrogenic differentiation and ultimately cartilage formation.

Methodology/principal findings

Using patch-clamp, RT-PCR and Western-blot experiments, we found that chondrogenic

SUBMITTER: Varga Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3221679 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature