Contribution of Rho-kinase to membrane excitability of murine colonic smooth muscle.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

The Rho-kinase pathway regulates agonist-induced contractions in several smooth muscles, including the intestine, urinary bladder and uterus, via dynamic changes in the Ca(2+) sensitivity of the contractile apparatus. However, there is evidence that Rho-kinase also modulates other cellular effectors such as ion channels.

Experimental approach

We examined the regulation of colonic smooth muscle excitability by Rho-kinase using conventional microelectrode recording, isometric force measurements and patch-clamp techniques.

Key results

The Rho-kinase inhibitors, Y-27632 and H-1152, decreased nerve-evoked on- and off-contractions elicited at a range of frequencies and durations. The Rho-kinase inhibitors decreased the spontaneous contractions and the

SUBMITTER: Bayguinov O 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3101624 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature