Hyperpolarisation of rat peritoneal macrophages phagocytosing latex particles.

The changes that take place in the plasma membrane during endocytosis are still poorly understood. Studies of the electrical properties and related permeabilities of cells during pinocytosis and phagocytosis should provide insight into these changes. This approach has not been much exploited, although there have been a few relevant reports. For example, induction of pinocytosis in amoebae produces a marked decrease in plasma membrane resistance, and exposure of polymorphonuclear leukocytes to phagocytosable particles can engender alterations in ionic permeabilities. The present report demonstrates that the induction of phagocytosis in rat peritoneal macrophages is accompanied by a sustained hyperpolarisation of the cells.