SKA-31, an activator of Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channels, improves cardiovascular function in aging.

ABSTRACT: Aging represents an independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease, and is associated with complex structural and functional alterations in the vasculature, such as endothelial dysfunction. Small- and intermediate-conductance, Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channels (KCa2.3 and KCa3.1, respectively) are prominently expressed in the vascular endothelium, and pharmacological activators of these channels induce robust vasodilation upon acute exposure in isolated arteries and intact animals. However, the effects of prolonged in vivo administration of such compounds are unknown. In our study, we hypothesized that such treatment would ameliorate aging-related cardiovascular deficits. Aged (∼18 months) male Sprague Dawley rats were treated daily with either vehicle

SUBMITTER: John CM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6956598 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature