A-type potassium currents in smooth muscle

Am J Physiol Cell Physiol. 2003 Mar;284(3):C583-95. doi: 10.1152/ajpcell.00301.2002.

Abstract

A-type currents are voltage-gated, calcium-independent potassium (Kv) currents that undergo rapid activation and inactivation. Commonly associated with neuronal and cardiac cell-types, A-type currents have also been identified and characterized in vascular, genitourinary, and gastrointestinal smooth muscle cells. This review examines the molecular identity, biophysical properties, pharmacology, regulation, and physiological function of smooth muscle A-type currents. In general, this review is intended to facilitate the comparison of A-type currents present in different smooth muscles by providing a comprehensive report of the literature to date. This approach should also aid in the identification of areas of research requiring further attention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Membrane / drug effects
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Membrane Potentials / drug effects
  • Membrane Potentials / physiology
  • Muscle Contraction / drug effects
  • Muscle Contraction / physiology*
  • Muscle, Smooth / drug effects
  • Muscle, Smooth / metabolism*
  • Potassium Channels / drug effects
  • Potassium Channels / metabolism
  • Potassium Channels, Calcium-Activated / drug effects
  • Potassium Channels, Calcium-Activated / metabolism*
  • Potassium Channels, Voltage-Gated*
  • Shal Potassium Channels

Substances

  • Potassium Channels
  • Potassium Channels, Calcium-Activated
  • Potassium Channels, Voltage-Gated
  • Shal Potassium Channels