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Failure to elicit neuronal macroscopic mechanosensitive currents anticipated by single-channel studies
1Biology Department, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 8, 1991
Summary
Mechanosensitive channels in Lymnaea stagnalis neurons appear stretch-activated or inactivated in single-channel recordings. However, these mechanosensitive currents were not observed macroscopically, suggesting patch recording artifacts.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Mechanosensitive channels are present in most cell types and play roles in cellular processes.
- Potassium-selective currents, influenced by mechanical stretch, are observed in Lymnaea stagnalis neurons.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and nature of mechanosensitive channels in Lymnaea stagnalis neurons.
- To reconcile observations of single-channel currents with macroscopic current recordings.
Main Methods:
- Single-channel recording in growth cones and cell bodies of Lymnaea stagnalis neurons.
- Application of various mechanical stimuli to elicit macroscopic currents.
Main Results:
- Stretch-activated and stretch-inactivated potassium-selective single-channel currents were observed.
- No equivalent macroscopic mechanosensitive currents could be elicited under mechanical stimulation.
Conclusions:
- The observed single-channel mechanosensitivity in Lymnaea stagnalis neurons may be an artifact of the patch recording technique.
- Further investigation is needed to understand the true nature of mechanosensation in these neurons.
