Demonstration of A-currents in pancreatic islet cells

Paul A. Smith, Krister Bokvist and Patrik Rorsman

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Abstract

Voltage-activated K+ currents resistant to TEA but blockable by 4-AP were recorded from mouse pancreatic islet cells. These currents first become observable during depolarizations to voltages more positive than –40 mV, reaching a peak amplitude of 120±34 pA at +6 mV (n=4), display rapid turn on (tau=3.3±1.1 ms at +6 mV) and inactivate completely within 250 ms (tau=65±5 at +6 mV). The current is subject to steady-state inactivation. The midpoint (V h) of the inactivation curve (hinfin) was observed at –72±2 mV. The properties of this current resemble those reported for the A-current in neurons.

Key words  A-currents - K+-channels - beta-cells - Endocrine pancreas

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