Modulation of ionic currents in isolated type I cells of the neonatal rat carotid body by p-chloromercuribenzenesulfonic acid.

Abstract

The sulphydryl reagent, p-chloromercuribenzenesulfonic acid (PCMBS), irreversibly excites the carotid body in vivo. We tested the effects of PCMBS on ionic currents in isolated type I cells, using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. PCMBS selectively and irreversibly inhibited the Ca(2+)-activated K+ current (IKCa) in a dose-dependent manner (0.01-1 mM). The same concentrations of PCMBS did not affect the Ca(2+)-independent K+ current (IKv), but caused a transient enhancement of the Ca2+ current (ICa). The inhibition of IKCa by PCMBS is similar to the previously reported effects of hypoxia, and suggests a central role for the channels underlying this current in chemotransduction.

• Authors: C N Wyatt, C Peers
• Journal: Brain research (Brain Res) Vol. 591 Issue 2 Pg. 341-4 (Sep 25 1992) ISSN: 0006-8993 [Print] Netherlands
• PMID: 1332806 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Calcium Channels
• Potassium Channels
• 4-Chloromercuribenzenesulfonate

Topics

• 4-Chloromercuribenzenesulfonate (pharmacology)
• Animals
• Animals, Newborn (metabolism)
• Calcium Channels (drug effects)
• Carotid Body (cytology, drug effects, metabolism)
• In Vitro Techniques
• Membrane Potentials (drug effects)
• Potassium Channels (drug effects)
• Rats