External pH regulates the inward K+ channels in Brassica pollen protoplasts

Patch-clamp whole-cell recording techniques were used to investigate the regulation of the inward K+ channels by external pH in Brassica pollen protoplasts. The inward K+ currents, conductance and voltage-independent maximum conductance were not significantly affected when the external pH was changed from 5.8 to 4.5. However, compared with the results obtained at pH 5.8, the inward K+ currents and conductance were significantly inhibited at pH 8.5. The activation kinetics of the inward K+ channels was also significantly regulated by external pH. The channel activation time was shorter at the lower external pH than that at higher pH. Since external pH is a critical factor to regulate pollen germination, the results suggest that external pH regulation of the inward K+ channels may be one of potential physiological mechanisms for the regulation of pollen germination.