In vitro study on influence of nano particles of CuO on CA1 pyramidal neurons of rat hippocampus potassium currents

Abstract

The effects of nano particles of CuO on voltage-dependent potassium currents were studied in acutely isolated CA1 pyramidal neurons of rat hippocampus using the whole-cell patch-clamp techniques. Nano particles of CuO had small effects on transient outward potassium current (IA, no statistical significance) and mainly inhibited delayed rectifier potassium current (IK) in the concentration of 5 × 10-5 g/mL. Nano particles of CuO didn't shift the steady-state activation curve of I K and IA but negatively shifted the inactivation curve of IK. The effects on inactivation curve of IA had no statistical significance. These results suggested that blockades of K + currents by nano particles of CuO could be preferential for I k for the first time. This may interfere with the normal function of nerve cells. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.