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Mechanism of Regulation of Adipocyte Numbers in Adult Organisms Through Differentiation and Apoptosis Homeostasis
Published on: June 3, 2016
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A mechanically activated TRPC1-like current in white adipocytes.
Mickaël F El Hachmane1, Charlotta S Olofsson1
1Department of Physiology/Metabolic Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 11, SE-405 30, Göteborg, Sweden.
Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
|March 11, 2018
Summary
Calcium (Ca2+) influx in white adipocytes is mechanically activated, similar to the TRPC1 channel. This finding is crucial for understanding adipocyte function, as cell size changes dynamically.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Calcium ions (Ca2+) regulate numerous cellular processes, including metabolism and hormone secretion in white adipocytes.
- The precise mechanisms controlling dynamic intracellular Ca2+ alterations in adipocytes remain largely unknown.
- Previous research identified store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) involving STIM1 and ORAI1, with TRPC1 contributing to this process in white adipocytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To further characterize store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) in white adipocytes using electrophysiological techniques.
- To investigate the role of mechanical forces in regulating Ca2+ currents within these cells.
Main Methods:
- Single-cell whole-cell patch clamp recordings were employed to measure ionic currents in white adipocytes.
- Electrophysiological data were analyzed to identify and characterize Ca2+ currents and their modulators.
Main Results:
- A constitutively active current, inhibited by known store-operated Ca2+ channel (SOCC) blockers, was observed.
- Mechanical force applied during patch-clamp recordings induced an increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration.
- This mechanically induced Ca2+ elevation was reversible by SOCC antagonists, suggesting a mechanically activated current.
Conclusions:
- White adipocytes possess a mechanically activated current with characteristics similar to the TRPC1 channel.
- TRPC1 activation by membrane tension/stretch may play a significant role in white adipocyte function due to their capacity for rapid size changes.
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