Ca2+-dependent K+ channels in neuroblastoma hybrid cells activated by intracellular inositol trisphosphate and extracellular bradykinin.

Bradykinin (BK) activation of phosphatidylinositide breakdown in NG108-15 neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid cells in the generation of an outward K+ current through the release of Ca2+ by the intermediary messenger inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3). Channels mediating this outward current were identified using cell-attached patch electrodes. Intracellular iontophoretic injection of InsP3 or Ca2+, or extracellular application of BK, evoked bursts of K+ channel activity coincident with cell hyperpolarization measured with an intracellular recording micropipette. The most frequent channels had a mean single-channel conductance of about 40 pS in symmetrical K+ solutions; additional openings of lower conductance (18 pS) channels were also detected. Bath application of phorbol dibutyrate (PDBu, 1 microM) increased the number and opening probability of the InsP3-induced channels.