The effect of mechanical deformation on the distribution of potassium ions across the cell membrane of sutural cells

• Published in: Calcified tissue international 1992-06, Vol.50 (6), p.547-552
• Main Authors: MCDONALD, F, HOUSTON, W. J. B
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animals; Biological and medical sciences; Bone Remodeling - physiology; Cell Membrane - metabolism; Chlorides - metabolism; Diseases of the osteoarticular system; Medical sciences; Membrane Potentials; Microelectrodes; Microscopy, Fluorescence; Miscellaneous. Osteoarticular involvement in other diseases; Organ Culture Techniques; Osteocytes - metabolism; Potassium - metabolism; Potassium Channels - drug effects; Rats; Skull; Sodium - metabolism; Space life sciences
• ISSN: 0171-967X; 1432-0827
• DOI: 10.1007/BF00582171

Ionic concentrations of potassium, sodium, and chloride were determined in osteocytes of the rat calvarium. The values were determined by fluorescent microscopy of both intra- and extracellular concentrations. Following the baseline determination, the calvaria were placed in tension by retraction of a microelectrode manipulator, and the fluorescence of the cells were measured again. A statistically significant change in the derived ion distribution was found. Thus, the tensile forces affected the distribution of ions across the cell membranes, increasing intracellular sodium and decreasing intracellular potassium. This would have an effect on the resting cell membrane potential with a change of potential of 8 mV. This has implications in the interpretation of clinical findings.