Hyperpolarization of human mesenchymal stem cells in response to magnetic force.

Magnetic particle tagging techniques are currently being applied to tissue engineering applications such as controlled differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). In order to define key mechanotransducers underpinning these applications, the electrophysiological responses of human MSCs (hMSC) have been investigated. Ferromagnetic microparticles were coated with L-arginyl-glycyl-L-aspartic acid in order to target the application of dynamic force (6 pN) directly to cell surface integrins. Human MSCs demonstrated cell membrane hyperpolarization responses after the application of force, mediated by BK channels and intracellular calcium release.