Purpose: To study the effects of EGF on Ca(2+) and cAMP in the ductal cells of rat SMG.
Methods: Fluorometric technique and radioimmunological technique were used to investigate the dynamic changes of Ca(2+) and cAMP in the ductal cells. The data were analysed statistically by t test.
Results: After an momently latent period, intercellular calcium increased rapidly, then began to decline. This period could last 5 minutes. After 3 minutes, cAMP showed a rapid decrease, and then increased slowly. Its concentration could restore 90 minutes later.
Conclusion: EGF may regulate intercellular calcium and cAMP, which results in the proliferation of the ductal cells.