PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - Nelson, P. G. AU - Henkart, M. P. TI - Oscillatory membrane potential changes in cells of mesenchymal origin: the role of an intracellular calcium regulating system DP - 1979 Aug 01 TA - The Journal of Experimental Biology PG - 49--61 VI - 81 IP - 1 4099 - http://jeb.biologists.org/content/81/1/49.short 4100 - http://jeb.biologists.org/content/81/1/49.full SO - J. Exp. Biol.1979 Aug 01; 81 AB - A number of mesenchymal cells (fibroblasts, macrophages and megakaryocytes) respond to a variety of stimuli with large hyperpolarizations lasting several seconds (the H.A. response). The H.A. responses can occur as repetitive trains or oscillations. These hyperpolarizations are due to an increase of the surface membrane permeability to potassium ions which is probably mediated by an increase in the cytoplasmic free calcium ion concentration. Evidence is discussed which suggests that the source of this increased calcium, is least in part, an intracellular sequestering system, probably the endoplasmic reticulum. A model capable of producing oscillatory changes in membrane potential is proposed based on such an intracellular calcium sequestering and releasing system.