The sodium leak channel NALCN regulates cell excitability of pituitary endocrine cells

Anterior pituitary endocrine cells that release hormones such as growth hormone and prolactin are excitable fire action potentials. In these cells, several studies previously showed extracellular sodium (Na+) removal resulted in a negative shift of the resting membrane potential (RMP) subsequent inhibition spontaneous firing potentials, suggesting contribution Na+ background conductance. Here, we show leak channel NALCN conducts Ca2+- Gd3+-sensitive TTX-resistant conductance GH3 cell line, model cells. knockdown hyperpolarized RMP, altered electrical properties inhibited secretion. Conversely, overexpression depolarized also reshaping Overall, our results indicate is functional involved excitability well Indeed, line suitably models native display similar appears proper cellular to study role excitability.