Human myoblast differentiation: Ca(2+) channels are activated by K(+) channels.
In a paradigm of cellular differentiation, human myoblast fusion, we investigated how a Ca(2+) influx, indispensable for fusion, is triggered. We show how newly expressed Kir2.1 K(+) channels, via their hyperpolarizing effect on the membrane potential, generate a window Ca(2+) current (mediated by alpha 1H T-type Ca(2+) channels), which causes intracellular Ca(2+) to rise.
Bernheim
Laurent
L
Département de Physiologie, Centre Médical Universitaire, Hôpital Cantonal Universitaire, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland.
Bader
Charles R
CR
D015220:Calcium Channels / Q000502:physiology*; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000502:physiology; D002459:Cell Fusion; D004594:Electrophysiology; D006801:Humans; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000166:cytology* / Q000502:physiology; D024661:Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying / Q000502:physiology*
D015220:Calcium Channels; D024661:Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying