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Nerve growth factor-induced increase in calcium uptake by PC12 cells
1Section on Growth Factors, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892.
Journal of Neuroscience Research
|February 1, 1991
Summary
Nerve growth factor (NGF) rapidly increases calcium uptake in PC12 cells, peaking at 5 minutes before returning to normal levels. This effect is partly blocked by L-type calcium channel inhibitors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nerve growth factor (NGF) is crucial for neuronal development and function.
- PC12 cells are a widely used cell line model for studying neuronal differentiation and signaling.
- Calcium ion (Ca2+) influx plays a vital role in cellular processes, including neuronal signaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of NGF on calcium uptake in PC12 cells.
- To determine the time course and characteristics of NGF-induced calcium influx.
- To explore the involvement of L-type calcium channels and kinase pathways in NGF signaling.
Main Methods:
- PC12 cells were treated with NGF.
- Calcium uptake was measured using established assays.
- The effects of L-type calcium channel blockers and K-252a were evaluated.
- Calcium release was also monitored.
Main Results:
- NGF induced a rapid and transient increase in calcium uptake, maximal at 5 minutes.
- The enhanced calcium uptake diminished by 15 minutes of NGF treatment.
- L-type calcium channel blockers partially inhibited the NGF-induced calcium influx.
- K-252a, a kinase inhibitor, mimicked NGF's effect on calcium uptake but to a lesser extent.
- NGF did not affect calcium release from intracellular stores.
Conclusions:
- NGF transiently stimulates calcium uptake in PC12 cells, primarily through influx.
- L-type calcium channels are partially involved in mediating this NGF response.
- Kinase pathways, potentially inhibited by K-252a, also contribute to NGF-induced calcium signaling.