Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 23, 2026

Mechanical Stimulation-induced Calcium Wave Propagation in Cell Monolayers: The Example of Bovine Corneal Endothelial Cells
Published on: July 16, 2013
Transient receptor potential V4 channel stimulation induces reversible epithelial cell permeability in MDCK cell
Minagi Mukaiyama1, Yohei Yamasaki1, Takeo Usui2,3
1Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Japan.
Abstract:
The transient receptor potential V4 channel (TRPV4) is responsive to a variety of physical and chemical stimuli, including a synthetic agonist GSK1016790A (GSK). Here, we show that TRPV4 is functionally expressed in, and that GSK induces the reversible opening of tight junctions (TJs) in epithelial Madin-Darby canine kidney II monolayers. Stimulation of TRPV4 by GSK induces an increase in fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated dextran (4 kDa) permeability and a reduction in transepithelial resistance, and these responses are blocked by pretreatment with the specific TRPV4 antagonist. Small conductance, but not large conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ channels, TRPA1 channel, and cofilin activation are involved in TRPV4-mediated reversible opening of TJs. These results suggest that a novel mechanism underlies TRPV4-mediated regulation of the tightness of epithelial barriers.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Cell Potential and Free Energy
Thermodynamics is the branch of physics dealing with the relationship between heat and other forms of energy. In an electrochemical cell, chemical energy is converted into electrical energy.
Thus, a link can be predicted between cell potential, free energy change, and the equilibrium constant for the reaction. Cell potential can also be measured as the oxidant or the reducing strength, and similar acid-base strength measures are reflected in equilibrium...
The Resting Membrane Potential
Ion Channels
Ion channels are specialized integral membrane proteins on the plasma membrane that allow...
Types of Receptors: Cell Surface Receptors
Action Potential: Phases of Stimulation
Resting Phase:
In this phase, the cell's membrane is at its resting potential, typically around -70 millivolts (mV) for neurons. Inside the cell, there is a higher concentration of potassium ions (K+) and a lower concentration of sodium ions (Na+). Voltage-gated sodium channels are closed, and...
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells

