Involvement of cationic channels in proliferation and migration of human mesenchymal stem cells

Tissue Cell. 2012 Dec;44(6):358-64. doi: 10.1016/j.tice.2012.06.001. Epub 2012 Jul 6.

Abstract

Human mesenchymal stem cells (HMSCs) have been applied in various clinic settings. Ion channels play an important role in cellular physiology. However, the potential role of cationic channels in regulating the proliferation and migration properties of hMSCs remains to be determined. In the present study, the functional expression of ion channels in hMSCs was investigated by patch clamp. MTT assay and BrdU stainings were used to assess the proliferation of hMSCs. hMSC migration was evaluated by Transwell migration assays. The results show that sodium-, L-type calcium, potassium currents have been identified in hMSCs. TEA (K(+) channel blocker), nifedipine (Ca(2+) channel blocker) can inhibit both proliferation and migration of hMSCs. The increase of extracellular Ca(2+) concentration promoted both proliferation and migration of hMSCs. TTX, a Na(+) channel blocker, promoted cell proliferation but inhibited cell migration. Our data suggest that cationic channels (sodium, L-type calcium, potassium channels) play important roles in regulating proliferation and migration of hMSCs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bromodeoxyuridine / metabolism
  • Cations / metabolism
  • Cell Movement* / drug effects
  • Cell Proliferation / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Ion Channel Gating / drug effects
  • Ion Channels / metabolism*
  • Membrane Transport Modulators / pharmacology
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / metabolism*

Substances

  • Cations
  • Ion Channels
  • Membrane Transport Modulators
  • Bromodeoxyuridine