Luminal non-specific cationic channels in cultured strial marginal cells of guinea pig and gerbil as determined by patch clamp technique.

Using primary cultures of marginal cells of stria vascularis from guinea pig and gerbil, ionic channels located on the luminal membrane were investigated by means of patch clamp technique. Recordings were performed in cell-attached and inside-out configurations. In cell-attached configuration, single channel activity was identified with a conductance of about 25 pS. I-V curve was linear. The probability of opening was increased upon depolarization. Up to 7 channels could be present in the same patch, indicating a rather high density. In inside-out configuration, the reversal potential was 0 mV, suggesting a non-specific cationic channel. These luminal non-specific cationic channels would allow the passive K+ efflux and Na+ influx across the apical membrane of marginal cells. This finding is consistent with the "one-pump" model of strial activity. The present study suggests that culture of strial marginal cells may be a suitable model for in-depth investigation of endolymph physiology.