Membrane depolarization in PC-12 cells during hypoxia is regulated by an O2-sensitive K+ current

The effects of hypoxia on K+ current (IK), resting membrane potential, and cytosolic free Ca2+ in rat pheochromocytoma (PC-12) cells were studied. Whole cell voltage- and current-clamp experiments were performed to measure IK and membrane potential, respectively. Cytosolic free Ca2+ level was measured using the Ca(2+)-sensitive fluorescent dye fura 2. Depolarizing voltage steps to +50 mV from a holding potential of -90 mV elicited a slowly inactivating, tetraethylammonium chloride-sensitive, and Ca(2+)-insensitive IK that was reversibly inhibited by reduced O2 tension. Graded reduction in PO2 (from 150 to 0 mmHg) induced a graded inhibition of O2-sensitive IK [IK(O2)] up to 46% at 0 mmHg. Moreover, hypoxia induced a 19-mV membrane depolarization and a twofold increase in cytosolic free Ca2+. In Ca(2+)-free condition, inhibition of IK(O2) induced an 8-mV depolarization, suggesting that inhibition of IK(O2) was responsible for initiating depolarization. The effect of reduced PO2 on the current-voltage relationship showed a reduction of outward current and a 14-mV shift in the reversal potential comparable with the amount of depolarization measured in current clamp experiments. Neither Ca(2+)-activated IK nor inwardly rectifying IK are responsible for the hypoxia-induced depolarization. In conclusion, PC-12 cells express an IK(O2), inhibition of which leads to membrane depolarization and increased intracellular Ca2+, making the PC-12 clonal cell line a useful model for studying the molecular and biophysical mechanisms that mediate O2 chemosensitivity.