Abstract
Cytoskeletal filaments, which contain microtubules1–4 (∼25 nm thick), microfilaments5,6 (5 nm) and intermediate filaments7–9 (neurofilaments, 10 nm), are considered essential for maintaining complex cellular shape and various cellular functions. Several studies have claimed that these filaments also maintain in some part physiological properties of excitable membranes10–14. However, the role of these filaments in maintenance of ionic channel activity is poorly understood10,11. Here we report experiments in which we disrupted specific cytoskeletal filaments by applying chemicals to tissue-cultured nerve cells of adult guinea pigs15–17, and examined changes in membrane properties by conventional electrophysiological techniques. Selective breakdown of microfilaments by cytochalasin B5,6,18–21 or its derivatives22–24 caused selective reduction in the membrane capacity to carry Na ions16 (as measured by Vmax of pure Na spikes). The ability of the membrane to carry Ca ions15 and other physiological properties (resting membrane potential, input resistance and capacitance) were not affected significantly. By contrast, a breakdown of microtubules by colchicine1–4 or vinca alkaloids4,25 caused selective reduction of Vmax for Ca spikes but not of that for Na spikes. These findings suggest that Na channels in the plasma membrane may have a molecular interaction with microfilaments, but are independent of microtubules. Conversely, Ca channels may be related to microtubules or to neurites, but seem to be independent of microfilaments.
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Fukuda, J., Kameyama, M. & Yamaguchi, K. Breakdown of cytoskeletal filaments selectively reduces Na and Ca spikes in cultured mammal neurones. Nature 294, 82–85 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1038/294082a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/294082a0
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