Changes in the expression and current of the Na+/K+ pump in the snail nervous system after exposure to static magnetic field

Abstract

Summary Compelling evidence confirms the use of moderate static magnetic field (SMF) for therapeutic purposes. In order to provide an insight into the mechanisms underlying SMF treatment, it is essential to examine the cellular responses elicited by therapeutically applied SMF, especially in the nervous system. The Na+/K+ pump, by creating and maintaining the gradient of Na+ and K+ ions across the plasma membrane, regulates the physiological properties of neurons. In this study, we examined the expression of the Na+/K+ pump in isolated brain-subesophageal ganglion complex of the garden snail Helix pomatia, along with the immunoreactivity and current of the Na+/K+ pump in isolated snail neurons after 15 min exposure to the moderate 10 mT SMF. Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis revealed that 10 mT SMF did not significantly change the expression of Na+/K+ pump α subunit in the snail brain and neuronal cell body, respectively. However, our immunofluorescence data showed that SMF treatment induced a significant increase in the Na+/K+ pump α subunit expression in the neuronal plasma membrane area. This change in the Na+/K+ pump expression was reflected in the pump activity as demonstrated by the pump current measurements. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from isolated snail neurons revealed that Na+/K+ pump current density is significantly increased after the 10 mT SMF treatment. SMF induced increase was different in the two groups of control snail neurons defined by the pump current level. Obtained results could represent physiologically important response of neurons to the 10 mT SMF comparable in strength to therapeutic applications.