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Published on: June 13, 2014
Transmembrane ion conductance in human B lymphocyte activation
L H Brent1, J L Butler, W T Woods
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama, Birmingham 35294.
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|October 25, 1990
Summary
Transmembrane ion conductance is crucial for human B lymphocyte activation. Inhibitors like verapamil and diltiazem block key activation steps, suggesting calcium influx regulates ion channels.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- B lymphocyte activation is a complex process involving signaling pathways.
- The role of transmembrane ion flux in B cell activation requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of transmembrane ion conductance in human B lymphocyte activation.
- To identify specific ion channels and their regulation during B cell stimulation.
Main Methods:
- B lymphocytes were stimulated with mitogens (anti-human IgM F(ab')2 fragment and PMA).
- Ion channel blockers (TEA, 4AP, verapamil, diltiazem) were used to assess functional impacts.
- Patch clamp techniques (whole-cell, cell-attached, inside-out) were employed to study ionic currents.
Main Results:
- Mitogen-induced DNA and RNA synthesis were inhibited by ion channel blockers.
- Verapamil and diltiazem, but not TEA or 4AP, inhibited mitogen-induced cell volume increases.
- Single channel studies indicated activation-induced increases in intracellular calcium inhibit specific plasma membrane ion channels.
Conclusions:
- Transmembrane ion conductance alterations are integral to B lymphocyte activation.
- Increased intracellular calcium may directly inhibit plasma membrane ion channels, modulating ion flux during B cell activation.
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