Oscillating activity of a Ca(2+)-sensitive K+ channel. A prerequisite for migration of transformed Madin-Darby canine kidney focus cells.

Migration plays an important role in the formation of tumor metastases. Nonetheless, little is known about electrophysiological phenomena accompanying or underlying migration. Previously, we had shown that in migrating alkali-transformed Madin-Darby canine kidney focus (MDCK-F) cells a Ca(2+)-sensitive 53-pS K+ channel underlies oscillations of the cell membrane potential. The present study defines the role this channel plays in migration of MDCK-F cells. We monitored migration of individual MDCK-F cells by video imaging techniques. Under control conditions, MDCK-F cells migrated at a rate of 0.90 +/- 0.03 microns/min (n = 201). Application of K+ channel blockers (1 and 5 mmol/liter Ba2+, 5 mmol/liter tetraethylammonium, 100 mumol/liter 4-aminopyridine, 5 nmol/liter charybdotoxin) caused marked inhibition of migration, pointing to the importance of K+ channels in migration. Using patch-clamp techniques, we demonstrated the sensitivity of the Ca(2+)-sensitive 53-pS K+ channel to these blockers. Blockade of this K+ channel and inhibition of migration were closely correlated, indicating the necessity of oscillating K+ channel activity for migration. Migration of MDCK-F cells was also inhibited by furosemide or bumetanide, blockers of the Na+/K+/2Cl- cotransporter. We present a model for migration in which oscillations of cell volume play a central role. Whenever they are impaired, migration is inhibited.