| Abstract: | The experimental model of in vitro culture and direct current stimulation of isolated rat osteoblastlike cells was used to study the effects of mechanoelectric environments on osteogenesis and bone metabolism. DNA synthesis and Ca++ concentration in the osteoblastlike cells were measured with an Adherent Cell Analysis and Sorting Interactive Laser Cytometer (ACAS-570). The results showed that a suitable direct current stimulation (i.e., 100 µ;A/cm2) is effective in opening the Ca++ passages in the osteoblastlike cell membrane, increasing the intracellular concentration of free calcium ions. This effect can be elicited by the application of direct current for as short a time as about 160 sec and can last for about 110 sec after cessation of stimulation. DNA synthesis is mediated by calcium ion influx after DC stimulation. From the results, we concluded that intra-extra-cel-Mar calcium ion metabolism plays a key role in regulating osteogenesis under stimulation by direct current. |
