Mitogen‐activated Ca ++ channels in human B lymphocytes

Two complementary experimental methods have been used to examine mitogen‐induced transmembrane conductances in human B cells using the Daudi cell line as a model for human B cell activation. Spectrofluorometry was used to investigate mitogen‐induced changes in [Ca ++ ] i and transmembrane potential. Activation of human B cells with anti‐μ antibodies resulted in a biphasic rise in [Ca ++ ] i , the second phase being mediated by the influx of extracellular Ca ++ . Ca ++ influx was inhibited by high [K + ]e, suggesting that this influx was transmembrane potential sensitive. Membrane currents of Daudi cells were investigated using voltage clamp techniques. Before mitogenic stimulation, the cells were electrically quiet. Within several minutes of the addition of anti‐μ antibodies to the bath solution, inward currents were observed at negative voltages. Whole‐cell currents changed instantly with voltage steps and were transmembrane potential sensitive in that at potentials more positive than −40 mV no currents were detectable. A similar conductance was also activated by the introduction of IP 3 into the intracellular solution, suggesting that IP 3 generation after surface IgM crosslinking is involved in the activation of this conductance. Both anti‐μ and IP 3 induced currents were blocked by 1 mM La +++ , which is known to block Ca ++ channels. These results strongly support the presence of membrane Ca ++ channels in human B cells that function in the early stages of activation. Changes in transmembrane potential appear to be important in regulating Ca ++ influx. These mechanisms work in concert to regulate the level of [Ca ++ ] i during the early phases of human B cell activation. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.