Activation of K_v 7 channels as a novel mechanism for NO/cGMP-induced pulmonary vasodilation.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

The NO/cGMP pathway represents a major physiological signalling controlling tone in pulmonary arteries (PA), and drugs activating this pathway are used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension. K_v channels expressed in PA smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) are key determinants of vascular tone. We aimed to analyse the contribution of K_v 1.5 and K_v 7 channels in the electrophysiological and vasodilating effects evoked by NO donors and the GC stimulator riociguat in PA.

Experimental approach

K_v currents were recorded in isolated rat PASMCs using the patch-clamp technique. Vascular reactivity was assessed in a wire myograph.

Key results

The NO donors diethylamine NONOate diethylammonium (DEA-NO) and sodium nitr

SUBMITTER: Mondejar-Parreno G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6555858 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature