Switch of Voltage-Gated K+ Channel Expression in the Plasma Membrane of Chondrogenic Cells Affects Cytosolic Ca2+-Oscillations and Cartilage Formation

Abstract

These data demonstrate that the differentiation and proliferation of chondrogenic cells depend on rapid Ca(2+)-oscillations, which are modulated by K(V)-driven membrane potential changes. K(V)1.1 function seems especially critical during the final commitment period. We show the critical role of voltage-gated cation channels in the differentiation of non-excitable cells with potential therapeutic use.