Abstract
Calcium is an important intracellular messenger in all cells, represented here by nerve cells and osteoblast-like (OBL) cells. In neurons the intracellular calcium signal is related, e.g., to bioelectric phenomena. In OBL cells the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) plays a role in the intercellular communication via gap junction channels. [Ca2+]i might be affected by lead (Pb2+). In the nervous system even low Pb2+ concentrations impair learning and memory functions. Considering long-term potentiation (LTP) as a model for learning and memory it has been proven that the generation and maintenance of LTP is reduced by Pb2+ (1–10 μM). As the induction of LTP depends on a rise of [Ca2+]i, we examined the effects of Pb2+ on [Ca2+]i and on currents through calcium permeable membrane pores in dorsal-root ganglion (DRG) neurons, using calcium measurements (Fura-2/ AM) and whole cell patch clamp techniques. To study the effects of Pb2+ on intercellular communication via gap junctions we used rat OBL cells investigating interactions of Pb2+ with electric cell coupling. Furthermore, we examined calcium release activated channel currents (CRACCs) of these cells.
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