%0 journal article
%@ 0145-479X
%A Pangalos, M., Bintig, W., Schlingmann, B., Feyerabend, F., Witte, F., Begandt, D., Heisterkamp, A., Ngezahayo, A.

%D 2011
%J Journal of Bioenergetics and Biomembranes
%N 3
%P 311-322 
%R doi:10.1007/s10863-011-9354-7
%T Action potentials in primary osteoblasts and in the MG-63 osteoblast-like cell line
%U https://doi.org/10.1007/s10863-011-9354-7
3 
%X Whole-cell patch-clamp analysis revealed a resting membrane potential of -60 mV in primary osteoblasts and in the MG-63 osteoblast-like cells. Depolarisation-induced action potentials were characterised by duration of 60 ms, a minimal peak-to-peak distance of 180 ms, a threshold value of -20 mV and a repolarisation between the spikes to -45 mV. Expressed channels were characterised by application of voltage pulses between -150 mV and 90 mV in 10 mV steps, from a holding potential of -40 mV. Voltages below -60 mV induced an inward current. Depolarising voltages above -30 mV evoked two currents: (i) a fast activated and inactivated inward current at voltages between -30 and 30 mV, and (ii) a delayed-activated outward current that was induced by voltages above -30 mV. Electrophysiological and pharmacological parameters indicated that hyperpolarisation activated strongly rectifying K+ (Kir) channels, whereas depolarisation activated tetrodotoxin sensitive voltage gated Na+ (Nav) channels as well as delayed, slowly activated, non-inactivating, and tetraethylammonium sensitive voltage gated K+ (Kv) channels. In addition, RT-PCR showed expression of Nav1.3, Nav1.4, Nav1.5, Nav1.6, Nav1.7, and Kir2.1, Kir2.3, and Kir2.4 as well as Kv2.1. We conclude that osteoblasts express channels that allow firing of action potentials.