Lead Induces Endothelium‐ and Ca2+‐Independent Contraction in Rat Aortic Rings

• DOI: 10.1111/j.0901-9928.2001.890406.x
• Publication Date: 2004-09-28T13:02:04Z
• Authors: Ignacio Valencia; Enrique F. Castillo; Germán Chamorro; Rosa A. Bobadilla; Carlos Castillo
• Keywords: EGTA; Calcium in biology; Calphostin C

Abstract: The contractile effect of lead on rat aortic rings was examined. Lead (0.1–3.1 mM) elicited concentration‐dependent but endothelium‐independent contractions, which were unaffected by prazosin (1 μM). effects similar when the bathed either in absence or presence external Ca 2+ . Lanthanum not verapamil μM) inhibited contractions; hence non‐L‐calcium channels are involved such effect. In addition, induced contractions incubated ‐free EGTA‐containing solution for 70 min., an experimental condition intracellular ‐stores depleted. Finally, modified calphostin C (an inhibitor protein kinase C). conclusion, present results suggest that aorta, lead‐induced contraction is independent extra‐ and calcium stores. catecholamines C. It likely enters into smooth muscle cells through channels, acting like machinery it produces contraction. differences observed between our those obtained other authors may indicate mechanism varies among different blood vessels.