Small arteries exhibit tone, a partially contracted state that is an important determinant of blood pressure. In arterial smooth muscle cells, intracellular calcium paradoxically controls both… (More)
The molecular bases of inwardly rectifying K(+) (Kir) currents and K(+)-induced dilations were examined in cerebral arteries of mice that lack the Kir2.1 and Kir2.2 genes. The complete absence of the… (More)
The endothelium is a critical regulator of vascular tone, and dysfunction of the endothelium contributes to numerous cardiovascular pathologies. Recent studies suggest that apamin-sensitive,… (More)
Cysteinyl leukotrienes activate the cysteinyl leukotriene type 1 receptor (CysLT1R) to regulate numerous cell functions important in inflammatory processes and diseases such as asthma. Despite its… (More)
Analogues of L-arginine with modifications at the terminal guanidino nitrogen and/or the carboxyl terminus of the molecule have been widely used for their ability to inhibit the production of nitric… (More)
1. Acetylcholine (ACh) elicits an endothelium-dependent relaxation and hyperpolarization in the absence of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin synthesis in the guinea-pig coronary artery (GPCA). This… (More)
P2Y12 is the major platelet receptor that mediates ADP-induced aggregation. P2Y12 is also expressed by vascular cells. The factors that regulate P2Y12 expression have not been determined. Since… (More)
The transcription factor NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T-cells) is implicated in cardiac hypertrophy and vasculogenesis. NFAT activation, reflecting dephosphorylation by the calcium-dependent… (More)
1. The contractile and electrical responses to acetylcholine (ACh) in isolated segments of guinea-pig and rabbit coronary arteries were compared to those of the putative adenosine 5'-triphosphate… (More)
Purinergic relaxation and hyperpolarization was investigated in the isolated guinea pig coronary artery (GPCA) and compared to purinergic relaxation in the rabbit coronary artery (RCA). Vessels were… (More)