Abstract

Non-selective cation channels have been identified in the plasma membranes of many different cells. Previous research using fluorescent techniques has demonstrated the presence of cation conductances in membranes from human trophoblast. The purpose of this work was to explore, by electrophysiological methods, a non-selective cation channel in apical membranes from human placenta. Human placental apical membranes were purified by differential centrifugation and reconstituted in giant liposomes. These giant liposomes were then used for electrophysiological studies and were probed for the presence of cation channels by the patch-clamp method. The channel identified had a linear current-potential relationship with a conductance of around 16 pS in symmetrical Na solution. Under asymmetrical conditions the reversal potential was close to the reversal potential for Na+. The channel was equally permeable to sodium and potassium and the permeability sequence was NH4+ > Cs+ ? Rb+ > Na+ ? K+ > Li+. The channel also showed permeability to calcium and barium. The channel was insensitive to calcium but was blocked by millimolar concentration of Mg2+. We have demonstrated the presence of a low conductance, non-selective cation channel in placental apical membranes. These channels share some properties with non-selective cation channels previously described in other different cells. The precise role of these channels in placental physiology has yet to be determined. © 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd.