Cathodal Migration of Chondrocytes to Applied DC Electric Fields: Effects of Neomycin

Cultured chondrocytes exhibit cathodal migration when subjected to applied direct current (DC) electric fields [1]. Our studies showed a 2-fold enhancement in migratory velocity at physiologic temperature (∼37°C) compared to room temperature (∼25°C). The inositol phosphate pathway antagonists, U-73122 and neomycin, were found to inhibit the directed response, indicating that it may be involved in chondrocyte migration. Further understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying chondrocyte migration and galvanotaxis may contribute to the development of new strategies for cartilage repair.