Pharmacological activation of KCa3.1/KCa2.3 channels produces endothelial hyperpolarization and lowers blood pressure in conscious dogs.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

In rodents, the endothelial KCa channels, KCa3.1 and KCa2.3, have been shown to play a crucial role in initiating endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) vasodilator responses. However, it is not known to what extent these channels are involved in blood pressure regulation in large mammals, which would also allow us to address safety issues. We therefore characterized canine endothelial KCa3.1 and KCa2.3 functions and evaluated the effect of the KCa3.1/KCa2.3 activator SKA-31 on blood pressure and heart rate in dogs.

Experimental approach

Canine endothelial KCa3.1/KCa2.3 functions were studied by patch-clamp electrophysiology and wire myography in mesenteric arteries. Systemic cardiovascular actions of acute SKA-31 administration were monitor

SUBMITTER: Damkjaer M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3252979 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature