Activation of vascular KCNQ (Kv7) potassium channels reverses spasmogen-induced constrictor responses in rat basilar artery.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Cerebral vasospasm is the persistent constriction of large conduit arteries in the base of the brain. This pathologically sustained contraction of the arterial myocytes has been attributed to locally elevated concentrations of vasoconstrictor agonists (spasmogens). We assessed the presence and function of KCNQ (K(v) 7) potassium channels in rat basilar artery myocytes, and determined the efficacy of K(v) 7 channel activators in relieving spasmogen-induced basilar artery constriction.

Experimental approach

Expression and function of K(v) 7 channels in freshly isolated basilar artery myocytes were evaluated by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and whole-cell electrophysiological techniques. Functional responses to K(v) 7 channel modulators

SUBMITTER: Mani BK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3174403 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature