Differences between the effects of cromakalim and nifedipine on agonist-induced responses in rabbit aorta

KATP channel openers: structure-activity relationships and therapeutic potential

ATP-sensitive potassium channels (K(ATP) channels) are heteromeric complexes of pore-forming inwardly rectifying potassium channel subunits and regulatory sulfonylurea receptor subunits. K(ATP) channels were identified in a variety of tissues including muscle cells, pancreatic beta-cells, and various neurons. They are regulated by the intracellular ATP/ADP ratio; ATP induces channel inhibition and MgADP induces channel opening. Functionally, K(ATP) channels provide a means of linking the electrical activity of a cell to its metabolic state. Shortening of the cardiac action potential, smooth muscle relaxation, inhibition of both insulin secretion, and neurotransmitter release are mediated via K(ATP) channels. Given their many physiological functions, K(ATP) channels represent promising drug targets. Sulfonylureas like glibenclamide block K(ATP) channels; they are used in the therapy of type 2 diabetes. Openers of K(ATP) channels (KCOs), for example, relax smooth muscle and induce hypotension. KCOs are chemically heterogeneous and include as different classes as the benzopyrans, cyanoguanidines, thioformamides, thiadiazines, and pyridyl nitrates. Examples for new chemical entities more recently developed as KCOs include cyclobutenediones, dihydropyridine related structures, and tertiary carbinols.

Contractile responses of the human umbilical artery to KCl and serotonin in Ca-free medium and the effects of levcromakalim

It is known that K(ATP) channel openers inhibit the release and refilling of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores. The present study was designed to test the effects of levcromakalim in human umbilical artery (HUA) rings stimulated by serotonin (5-HT) and KCl in Ca-free medium. Umbilical cords were obtained at vaginal or cesarean deliveries from healthy, term pregnancies. After the isolation, HUA rings were placed in organ baths in solution with indomethacin (10(-5) M) and N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (10(-3) M) at 37 degrees C and aerated with 95% O(2) and 5% CO(2) for the measurement of isometric force. In Ca-free solution with Ethylene glycol-bis (ss-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) (2 mM) the contractions produced by 5-HT (10(-6) M) and KCl (40 mM) decreased significantly. Afterwards, HUA rings were treated with 5-HT and KCl in repeated manner in Ca-free medium. In contrast to KCl, 5-HT induced contractions reduced in each application, progressively. Levcromakalim (10(-4) M) abolished the contractions elicited by 5-HT. On the other hand, levcromakalim had a little but significant inhibitory effect on KCl induced contraction in Ca-free medium. These results suggest that Ca(2+) is not the only transduction pathway in KCl produced contractions of HUA smooth muscle cells.

Monophasic action potentials and Ca2+ transients in ischaemically preconditioned rabbit ventricular muscle

BACKGROUND

ATP-sensitive K⁺ (K_ATP) channels play an important role in the protective mechanism underlying ischaemic preconditioning. Ample evidence indicates, however, that action potential shortening is not a prerequisite for the cardioprotective effect of preconditioning.

METHODS

Monophasic action potential duration (MAPD), tissue resistance, intracellular Ca²⁺ (Indo-1) and mechanical activity were simultaneously assessed in arterially perfused rabbit papillary muscles. We studied four experimental protocols preceding sustained ischaemia: 1. control perfusion (n=6), 2. ischaemic preconditioning (PC; n=4), 3. pretreatment with a K_ATP channel blocker, glibenclamide (15 μmol/1), prior to ischaemic preconditioning (PC+glib; n=3), 4. glibenclamide pretreatment only (Glib; n=2).

RESULTS

In the PC group an increase in the diastolic Ca²⁺ level and a prolongation of the Ca²⁺ transient just prior to the induction of sustained ischaemia correlate to the postponement of the onset of irreversible ischaemic damage, as established by a rise in [Ca²⁺]_i, electrical uncoupling and contracture. Glibenclamide antagonised these changes in the Ca²⁺ transient and the cardioprotection induced by preconditioning. MAPD was equal in all experimental groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolongation of the Ca²⁺ transient and increase of diastolic [Ca²⁺]_i just prior to the induction of sustained ischaemia and not action potential shortening are involved in the cardioprotective effect of ischaemic preconditioning. Therefore, a glibenclamide-sensitive mechanism, other than the sarcolemmal K_ATP channels, is involved in the protective effect of ischaemic preconditioning. Changes in Ca²⁺ metabolism may play a crucial role in ischaemic preconditioning.

The reactivity of serotonin, acetylcholine and kcl-induced contractions to relaxant agents in the rat gastric fundus

The effects of nifedipine, cromakalim, diazoxide, caffeine and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) on acetylcholine, serotonin and KCl-induced contractions were studied in rat stomach fundus. Thus, we aimed to demonstrate how these contractions are modified by the substances acting on Ca (2+)influx and intracellular Ca (2+)stores. Serotonin (10(-9) - 10(-5) M) and KCl (20-80 mM) showed a similar contraction profile, which was slightly different from that of acetylcholine (10(-8)- 3 x 10(-3) M). In the experiments with the incubation of calcium-free/EGTA (0.5 mM) Krebs solution for 20 min, serotonin (3 x 10(-7)M) and KCl (40 mM) did not produce any contraction whereas, 10% of contraction to acetylcholine (3 x 10(-5) M) was still intact. Serotonin-induced contractions were readily reversed by nifedipine (10(-10) - 10(-4) M), cromakalim (10(-9) - 10(-4) M), diazoxide (10(-9) - 10(-4) M), caffeine (10(-5) - 10(-2) M) and SNP (10(-4) M) whereas, acetylcholine-induced contractions showed relative refractoriness to the above relaxant agents. 1 mM caffeine nearly fully inhibited serotonin-induced contraction, but not acetylcholine and high K-induced contractions whereas, 10 mM caffeine completely inhibited all the contractions. The relaxation pattern of nifedipine on serotonin and high K (+)-induced contractions was quite similar. Moreover, nifedipine and cromakalim showed equal dose effectiveness in relaxing acetylcholine and serotonin. The maximum relaxations induced by nifedipine and cromakalim in acetylcholine contractions were 61.51 +/- 6.92 % and 58.97 +/- 7.55 %, respectively. However their maximum relaxations in serotonin and high K (+)-induced contractions were almost 100%. The similarity in myorelaxants properties of cromakalim and nifedipine may relate to the similarity of their effects on calcium influx by a different mechanism of action in rat stomach fundus. In conclusion, acetylcholine-induced contraction is partially mediated both by calcium release from the intracellular Ca (2+) pool and calcium influx via L-type Ca (2+) channels. However, serotonin-induced contraction is possibly triggered by Ca (2+) release from sarcoplasmic reticulum and basically mediated by Ca (2+) influx via L-type Ca (2+)channels.

Pharmacological analysis of noncholinergic action of 2-sec-butylphenyl N-methylcarbamate insecticide on the isolated rabbit aorta

We investigated noncholinergic actions of 2-sec-butylphenyl N-methylcarbamate (BPMC) on the isolated rabbit thoracic aorta to help determine the mechanisms responsible for its unique toxicological properties, which are characterized by cardiovascular collapse and low lethality compared to its anticholinesterase (anti-ChE) activity. BPMC inhibited K(+)-induced contraction more effectively than it did norepinephrine (NE)-induced contraction. The inhibitory effect on K(+)-induced contraction was not altered by changing the external K(+) concentration, but it was decreased by adding an L-type Ca(2+) channel agonist, BAY K 8644. Simultaneous measurement of tension and cytosolic Ca(2+) levels elevated by K(+) stimulation revealed that BPMC decreased the Ca(2+) levels prior to and parallel to the tension. The magnitude of the inhibitory effect on Ca(2+) levels was increased by treating BPMC before Ca(2+) application in the depolarized preparation. However, BPMC did not inhibit caffeine- or NE-induced transient contraction in Ca(2+)-free medium. On the other hand, BPMC produced tonic contraction in the resting aorta. The contraction to BPMC did not develop after removing the adventitia. The contraction was inhibited by phentolamine or guanethidine but not by atropine or tetrodotoxin. These results suggest that BPMC inhibits depolarization- or agonist-induced contraction by inhibiting Ca(2+) entry through L-type Ca(2+) channels, whereas it produces vascular contraction in the resting state by releasing NE from sympathetic nerve terminals. These apparently opposing mechanisms may contribute to the unique noncholinergic toxicological properties of BPMC.

Effect of divalent cations on KCl- and noradrenaline-induced contractile responses in rat aorta after nifedipine treatment

Nifedipine (1 microM) relaxed the sustained contractile responses induced by 1 microM noradrenaline or 60 mM KCl in rat aortic strips. After washing, a second addition of the spasmogens gave smaller tonic contractions than the first one. Even more, a third addition of KCl also gave a smaller contraction than the first one, but a complete recovery of the contractile response to noradrenaline was obtained by a third addition of this agonist. Application of cumulative amounts of Ca2+ or Ba2+ (2.4-24 mM) on the residual contraction in response to these agents after nifedipine treatment, but in the absence of the blocker, restored the magnitude of the contractile responses. Addition of cumulative amounts of Mg2+ (2.4-24 mM) did not modify or even relax the contractile responses to KCl and noradrenaline, respectively.

The ginsenoside Rg3 evokes endothelium-independent relaxation in rat aortic rings: role of K+ channels

The purpose of the present study was to characterize the mechanism underlying the direct relaxing activity of ginsenosides on vascular smooth muscle. The total ginsenoside mixture, ginsenosides from either the protopanaxadiol group or the protopanaxatriol group, and the ginsenoside Rg3 from the protopanaxatriol group caused a concentration-dependent relaxation of rat aortic rings without endothelium contracted with 25 x 10(-3) M KCl but affected only minimally those contracted with 60 x 10(-3) M KCl. Ginsenoside Rg3 was the most potent relaxing agonist. Relaxations elicited by ginsenoside Rg3 were markedly reduced by tetraethylammonium, a blocker of non-selective K+ channels, but not by glibenclamide, a blocker of ATP-sensitive K+ channels. Ginsenoside Rg3 significantly inhibited Ca2+-induced concentration-contraction curves and the 45Ca2+ influx in aortic rings incubated with 25 x 10(-3) M KCl whereas these responses were not affected in rings incubated with 60 x 10(-3) M KCl. Ginsenoside Rg3 caused a time- and concentration-dependent efflux of 86Rb from aortic rings that was inhibited by tetraethylammonium but not by glibenclamide. These findings indicate that ginsenoside Rg3 is a potent inhibitor of vascular smooth muscle tone and that this effect seems to be due to an inhibition of Ca2+ influx and stimulation of K+ efflux, possibly via activation of tetraethylammonium-sensitive K+ channels.

Effects of K+ channel openers on relaxations to nitric oxide and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor in rat mesenteric artery

Relaxation of methoxamine-precontracted, endothelium-intact, rat mesenteric artery in the presence of NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 100 microM) and indomethacin (10 microM) is attributed to endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). The potency of carbachol in the presence (but not the absence) of L-NAME was reduced by levcromakalim and pinacidil, activators of ATP-sensitive K+ channels (KATP). EDHF-mediated relaxation to Ca2+ ionophore A23187 was unaffected by these compounds but was inhibited by verapamil at the level of the smooth muscle. Levcromakalim and pinacidil had the same effects at both reduced and standard levels of tone. Glibenclamide (10 microM), a KATP blocker, alone did not affect carbachol relaxations but abolished both relaxation to levcromakalim and pinacidil and their inhibitory action on EDHF released by carbachol. Levcromakalim inhibited the endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization of mesenteric arteries to carbachol but not to A23187. Thus, levcromakalim or pinacidil inhibit EDHF, but not nitric oxide, release by carbachol through an action on the endothelium.

The Lack of Toxicity of Potassium ChannelActivators in Heart Cell Cultures

High doses of the potassium channel activators (KCAs) BRL 44269, levcromakalin and pinacidil in a number of laboratory animal species cause a profound reduction in blood pressure which results in reflex tachycardia, ischaemia and myocardial necrosis. Thus, it is considered that the in vivo cardiac pathology seen with KCAs is an indirect effect as a consequence of excessive pharmacological effects rather than direct myocardial toxicity. This hypothesis was tested, in vitro, in the chick embryonic myocardial myocyte reaggregate (MMR) model system. Changes in spontaneous beating activity (SBA), leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and cell morphology by light and transmission electron microscopy were used to assess toxicity. The MMRs were cultured for up to 24hr in a series of different concentrations of the three KCAs in the range 1-10,000mum. In addition to an untreated control, allylamine (50mum), a known direct acting myocardial cytotoxin, was used as a positive control. Incubation with allylamine caused clear evidence of toxicity and permanent cessation of SBA. In contrast, KCAs caused changes in SBA and significant toxicity was only seen at the highest concentration (10,000mum) of BRL 44269. These results are supportive of the view that KCA-induced cardiac pathology in vivo is due to an indirect pharmacological action rather than a direct, cytotoxic mechanism.

Discovery & development of selective M3 antagonists for clinical use

The treatment of airway obstructive disease may be improved by antimuscarinic agents which selectively block M1 and M3 receptors but do not inhibit prejunctional cholinergic autoreceptors which limit release of acetylcholine. Revatropate is a novel antimuscarinic agent which shows some 50-fold selectivity for M1 and M3 receptors in guinea pig trachea and rabbit vas deferens over the M2 subtype in atria. This selectivity profile was seen in vivo in anaesthetised guinea pigs and conscious dogs where bronchodilator activity was produced in the absence of any effect on heart rate. Revatropate, in contrast to the non-selective agent ipratropium, did not potentiate bronchoconstrictor responses induced by vagal nerve stimulation, indicating that inhibitory autoreceptors were still functional. Early clinical studies in COAD patients showed that inhaled revatropate was an effective bronchodilator which was well tolerated. Darifenacin differs from revatropate by showing selectivity for M3 receptors relative to both M2 and M1 subtypes. [3H] darifenacin had 5-fold higher affinity for the human m3 relative to m1 receptors while there was significantly reduced binding to m2, m4 and m5 receptors. The degree of selectivity in functional tissue preparations was even greater, with darifenacin showing 100-fold selectivity for the ileum M3 receptors over M2 receptors in atria and 30-fold over M1 receptors in rabbit vas deferens. Darifenacin was able to differentiate between M3 receptors in different tissues; although darifenacin was equipotent with atropine in the ileum and bladder, it was some 10-fold and 6-fold less potent at inhibiting muscarinic responses in the trachea and submandibular salivary gland respectively, relative to atropine. Studies in anaesthetised dogs confirmed this selectivity profile. Thus darifenacin inhibited responses of the gut and bladder to cholinergic stimulation without affecting heart rate. Salivary gland responses were inhibited at doses some 6-10 fold higher than those required to inhibit gut and bladder responses. Clinical studies are ongoing in urge incontinence and functional bowel disease which may confirm this selectivity profile.

Study of the effects of cardiovascular drugs in heart cell cultures

Compounds that produce myocardial pathology in vivo can be separated into two main classes-those that are directly toxic to the myocardium and those that are considered to act by way of an indirect vascular or neurologically based mechanism. An in vitro model of myocardium without nervous or systemic influences can be used to differentiate between direct myocardial cytotoxic effects and indirect cardiac pathology arising in vivo from exaggerated vascular or neural pharmacological effects of a number of drugs. In this study direct-acting cardiotoxic compounds are distinguished from those causing cardiac pathology by indirect mechanisms by their different pattern of effects in chick embryonic myocardial myocyte reaggregates (MMRs) cultures. The toxicity of the direct-acting cardiotoxic drugs allylamine (positive control, 50 mum) and doxorubicin were compared with digoxin and isoprenaline, which show both direct and indirect mechanisms in vivo, and the indirectly acting hydralazine and pinacidil. Changes in spontaneous beating activity (SBA), leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and cell morphology by light and transmission electron microscopy were used to assess toxicity. The MMRs were cultured for up to 24 hr in a series of concentrations of the five compounds in the range 0.1 to 10,000 mum. Allylamine, doxorubicin, digoxin and, to a lesser extent, isoprenaline were highly toxic to the MMRs, as shown by alterations in SBA, LDH leakage and cellular morphology. In contrast, hydralazine showed a very mild degree of toxicity at the highest concentrations in the absence of LDH leakage; treatment with pinacidil did not show any evidence of morphological degeneration but did cause a dose-related inhibition of SBA. These results are consistent with the view that doxorubicin and digoxin are directly toxic to myocardial cells and also suggests that this is an important mechanism in vivo for isoprenaline. The absence of a significant degree of toxicity with hydralazine and pinacidil is consistent with an indirect toxic mechanism.

Effects of the potassium channel openers KRN4884 and levcromakalim on the contraction of rat aorta induced by A23187, compared with nifedipine

We examined the different vasodilatory effects of the K+ channel openers levcromakalim and 5-amino-N- [2-(2-chlorophenyl)ethyl]-N'-cyano-3-pyridinecarboxamidine (KRN4884), and the Ca2+ channel blocker nifedipine in the rat aorta. KRN 4884 (10(-10)-10(-5) M) and nifedipine (10(-10)-10(-5) M) produced concentration-dependent relaxation in the rat aorta precontracted by 25 mM KCl. The K+ channel blocker glibenclamide (1 microM) inhibited the relaxation induced by KRN4884 but did not influence nifedipine-induced relaxation. KRN4884 had almost no effect on contraction induced by 80 mM KCl, whereas nifedipine completely relaxed the muscle precontracted by 80 mM KCl, whereas nifedipine completely relaxed the muscle precontracted by 80 mM KCl. These results indicate that KRN4884 is a K+ channel opener. We investigated the relaxant effects of KRN4884 (10(-10)-10(-5) M), levcromakalim (10(-9)-10(-5) M) and nifedipine (10(-9)-10(-5) M) on A23187 (1 microM)-induced contraction. KRN4884 and levcromakalim had a potent relaxant effect but nifedipine only a weak effect on the smooth muscle contracted by A23187. Glibenclamide (1 microM) inhibited the relaxation induced by KRN4884 and levcromakalim, but did not influence the nifedipine-induced relaxation. KRN4884 (1 microM) produced a larger relaxation of A23187-induced contraction but had little effect on the increase in intracellular [Ca2+] induced by A23187. These results suggest that KRN4884 is a specific K+ channel opener and its vasodilating mechanisms involve not only deactivation of Ca2+ channels but also a decrease in the Ca2+ sensitivity of contractile elements.

Effect of niflumic acid on noradrenaline-induced contractions of the rat aorta

1. The effects of niflumic acid, an inhibitor of calcium-activated chloride channels, were compared with the actions of the calcium channel antagonist nifedipine on noradrenaline-evoked contractions in isolated preparations of the rat aorta. 2. The cumulative concentration-effect curve to noradrenaline (NA) was depressed by both nifedipine and niflumic acid in a reversible and concentration-dependent manner. The degree of inhibition of the maximal contractile response to NA (1 microM) produced by 10 microM niflumic acid (38%) was similar to the effect of 1 microM nifedipine (39%). 3. Contractions to brief applications (30 s) of 1 microM NA were inhibited by 55% and 62% respectively by 10 microM niflumic acid and 1 microM nifedipine. 4. In the presence of 0.1 microM nifedipine, niflumic acid (10 microM) produced no further inhibition of the NA-evoked contractions. Thus, the actions of niflumic acid and nifedipine were not additive. 5. In Ca-free conditions the transient contraction induced by 1 microM NA was not inhibited by niflumic acid (10 microM) and therefore this agent does not reduce the amount of calcium released from the intracellular store or reduce the sensitivity of the contractile apparatus to calcium. 6. Niflumic acid 10 microM did not inhibit the contractions produced by KCl (up to 120 mM) which were totally blocked by nifedipine. Contractions induced by 25 mM KCl were completely inhibited by 1 microM levcromakalim but were unaffected by niflumic acid. 7. It was concluded that niflumic acid produces selective inhibition of a component of NA-evoked contraction which is probably mediated by voltage-gated calcium channels. These data are consistent with a model in which NA stimulates a calcium-activated chloride conductance which leads to the opening of voltage-gated calcium channels to produce contraction.

Potassium channel activation: a potential therapeutic approach?

The physiological role of K+ channel opening by endogenous substances (e.g., neurotransmitters and hormones) is a recognised inhibitory mechanism. Thus, the identification of novel synthetic molecules that 'directly' open K+ channels has led to a new direction in the pharmacology of ion channels. The existence of many different subtypes of K+ channels has been an impetus in the search for new molecules demonstrating channel and, thus, tissue selectivity. This review focuses on the different classes of openers of K+ channels, the intracellular mechanisms involved in the execution of their effects, and potential therapeutic targets.

Divergent mechanisms of ATP-sensitive K+ channel-induced vasodilation in renal afferent and efferent arterioles. Evidence of L-type Ca2+ channel-dependent and -independent actions of pinacidil

K+ channel openers (PCOs), such as pinacidil, elicit vasodilation primarily by hyperpolarization-induced inhibition of L-type Ca2+ channel activation. The physiological role of other mechanisms suggested to contribute to PCO-induced vasodilation is not well established. In the renal microcirculation, L-type Ca2+ channels play a prominent role in vasoconstriction of the afferent arteriole (AA) but are absent or physiologically silent in the efferent arteriole (EA). Thus, L-type Ca2+ channel-dependent and -independent mechanisms can readily be distinguished in this model. In the present study, we found that pinacidil potently inhibited Bay K 8644-induced AA vasoconstriction. Pinacidil also preferentially inhibited angiotensin II-induced AA vasoconstriction (approximately ninefold greater potency than EA). These results are consistent with an AA effect of pinacidil on L-type Ca2+ channel activation. Unexpectedly, 10 mumol/L pinacidil inhibited AA and EA responses to similar extents (84 +/- 10% and 71 +/- 9%, respectively). In both AAs and EAs, glibenclamide restored normal reactivity, indicating an involvement of the ATP-sensitive K+ channels. In the EA, however, pretreatment with diltiazem did not alter the effects of pinacidil. Nevertheless, 45 mmol/L KCl reversed the EA actions of pinacidil, indicating an essential requirement for a normal K+ gradient. These findings suggest that the EA actions of pinacidil involve alterations in membrane potential but not changes in L-type Ca2+ channel activity. Overall, our findings do support the premise that L-type Ca2+ channel modulation is involved in PCO-induced vasodilation in the renal microcirculation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Differential vasorelaxant effects of levcromakalim and P1060 in the isolated KCl- and RbCl-precontracted human saphenous vein: possible involvement of intracellular Ca2+ stores

The influence of rubidium-substituted physiological salt solution (Rb-PSS) on the relaxant effects of K+ channel openers was investigated in the human saphenous vein. In tissues precontracted with 20 mM KCl (in K-PSS) levcromakalim and P1060 produced complete, sustained relaxations. However, in Rb-PSS (containing 20 mM RbCl) these effects were inhibited and, although complete relaxations still occurred, were transient. When caffeine was applied at the beginning of this fade of levcromakalim-induced relaxation in Rb-PSS its contractile effect was potentiated. Similarly, the contraction to noradrenaline was potentiated when applied at the beginning of this fade of levcromakalim-induced relaxation, whereas this response was attenuated in control tissues bathed in 20 mM KCl (in K-PSS). Our results show that the relaxant effects of K+ channel openers in human saphenous vein are inhibited in Rb-PSS, in agreement with previous studies in animal tissue, and suggest that an increased Ca2+ uptake into intracellular stores may be contributory to vasorelaxation.

Pharmacological natures of caffeine-induced endothelium-dependent and -independent contraction in canine mesenteric artery

The present experiments were carried out to elucidate whether pharmacological nature of caffeine (1 mM)-induced endothelium-dependent contraction (EDC) is different from that of caffeine (10 mM)-induced endothelium-independent contraction (EIC) in canine mesenteric artery. Caffeine (1 mM)-induced EDC was abolished when arterial strips were incubated in Ca(++)-free medium for 20 min, but EIC was not abolished. EGTA and EDTA (0.5 and 1 mM) attenuated the EDC, and at the concentration of 2.5 mM completely abolished the EDC. Nifedipine (10(-6) and 3 x 10(-6) M), diltiazem (10(-6) M) and verapamil (10(-6) M) did not affect the caffeine (1 mM)-induced EDC. Lemakalim (10(-8), 3 x 10(-8) and 10(-7) M) attenuated the caffeine (1 mM)-induced EDC in a concentration-dependent manner. Lemakalim (10(-7) M) nearly abolished the EDC. The inhibitory effect of lemakalim (10(-7) M) on the EDC was antagonized in the presence of glibenclamide (3 x 10(-6) M). In contrast, caffeine (10 mM)-induced EIC was resistant to lemakalim at higher concentration (3 x 10(-7) M). Forskolin (10(-7), 3 x 10(-7) and 10(-6) M) significantly attenuated both the caffeine (1 mM)-induced EDC and caffeine (10 mM)-induced EIC. The inhibitory effect of forskolin on the EDC was augmented in the presence of rolipram (10(-6) M). Nitroglycerin (10(-5) M) attenuated significantly caffeine-induced both EDC and EIC. The inhibitory effect of nitroglycerin on the EDC was augmented in the presence of zaprinast (10(-5) M). The present experiments demonstrate that caffeine-induced EDC is due to nifedipine-resistant and lemakalim-sensitive Ca++ mobilization and the EIC is due to both nifedipine- and lemakalim-resistant Ca++ mobilization in canine mesenteric artery.

Pharmacology of the potassium channel openers

The potassium-channel openers comprise a large number of molecules that can be classified into three basic groups: (1) agents like levcromakalim that open a small-conductance (10-30 pS) glibenclamide-sensitive K+ channel currently known as the ATP-sensitive K+ channel, KATP; (2) hybrid molecules, such as nicorandil, that open KATP channels and that also activate the enzyme-soluble guanylate cyclase; (3) molecules like dehydrosaponin 1 that open the large-conductance (100-150 pS) calcium-dependent K+ channel, BKCa. K(+)-channel openers in groups 1 and 2 are most potent on smooth muscle, but KATP channels in cardiac muscle, neurones and the pancreatic beta cell are also affected. In vivo, moderate to high doses produce a fall in diastolic pressure with reflex tachycardia; low doses may exert selective dilator effects on specific vascular beds with little effect on systemic pressure. In vitro, all smooth muscles are relaxed with loss of spontaneous electric and mechanical activity; hyperpolarization to the region of EK is often observed. These effects can be antagonized by glibenclamide and also by imidazolines and guanidines, such as phentolamine, guanethidine, and antazoline, agents that also inhibit the smooth muscle delayed rectifier channel, KV. The mode and site of action of the group 1 and 2 K(+)-channel openers is the subject of intense study. Irrespective of their specific mode of action, the K(+)-channel openers, especially the hybrid molecules such as nicorandil, constitute a novel and promising approach to the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Levcromakalim-induced modulation of membrane potassium currents, intracellular calcium and mechanical activity in rat mesenteric artery

In freshly-dispersed cells from rat mesenteric artery, levcromakalim (1 and 10 microM) induced a non-inactivating potassium current (IKCO), an event which was associated with increased current noise. IKCO was fully inhibited in the presence of 10 microM glibenclamide. Stationary fluctuation analysis of the current noise associated with IKCO induced by levcromakalim at a holding potential of -10 mV indicated that the unitary conductance of the underlying K-channels was 10.2 pS at 0 mV under the quasi-physiological conditions of the experiment. In isolated arterioles both levcromakalim (10 nM-10 microM) and nifedipine (10 nM-10 microM) each elicited full, concentration-dependent, parallel reductions of the increases in [Ca2+]i (assessed using fura-2) and tension induced by 10 microM noradrenaline. However, the effects of both drugs on KCl-induced increases in tension and in [Ca2+]i, did not follow a simple relationship. Levcromakalim relaxed KCl- and noradrenaline-induced sustained contractions with a similar potency. This was in contrast to nifedipine which was approximately 20 times more potent against KCl-induced contractions. It is concluded that levcromakalim relaxes rat mesenteric arterioles primarily by the opening of a small conductance, glibenclamide-sensitive K-channel. An additional action of levcromakalim is suggested by its relative inability to suppress the increase in [Ca2+]i produced by 30 mM K(+)-PSS.

Interactions between indomethacin, noradrenaline and vasodilators in the fetal rabbit ductus arteriosus

1. Interactions between indomethacin, noradrenaline and vasodilators were studied in rings of ductus arteriosus isolated from fetal rabbits. The effect of incubation with prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on the noradrenaline concentration-contraction response curve was studied in the presence and absence of indomethacin. Also, the ductus was pre-contracted with 10 microM noradrenaline and concentration-relaxation response curves (CRRC) to PGE2, cicaprost, cromakalim and forskolin were obtained in the presence and absence of indomethacin. 2. In the absence of indomethacin, PGE2 (from 1 nM to 100 nM) decreased the pEC50 to noradrenaline to a maximum of 0.4 to 0.5 log units (i.e. an approximately three fold increase in EC50 [M]). In the presence of 1 microM indomethacin, PGE2 (0.1 nM to 100 nM) decreased the pEC50 to noradrenaline by 2.39 log units (i.e. a 245 fold increase in EC50). By comparing the control pEC50 to noradrenaline with the relationship between the pEC50 to noradrenaline and [PGE2] in 1 microM indomethacin, the effect of endogenous PGE2 synthesized in the vessel wall was estimated as being equivalent to a bath concentration of approximately 1 nM exogenous PGE2. 3. When the vessel was pre-contracted with 10 microM noradrenaline, indomethacin had no effect on the CRRC to PGE2 but did alter the CRRC to other vasodilators. The sensitivity of the vessel to cicaprost, cromakalim and forskolin was decreased in 1 microM indomethacin compared with control. Forskolin caused complete relaxation in the presence and absence of indomethacin. Indomethacin decreased the maximum response to cromakalim but increased the maximum response to cicaprost. PGE2, 0.3 nm, partially reversed the effect of indomethacin on the sensitivity of the vessel to forskolin.4. We conclude that under varying experimental conditions, indomethacin increased the sensitivity of the ductus to the effects of PGE2 but decreased its sensitivity to other vasodilators. Both effects can be explained by elimination of endogenous PGE2. However, indomethacin increased the maximum response to cicaprost, which cannot be explained by elimination of endogenous PGE2 but may be due to elimination of endogenous prostacyclin.

Effects of the novel potassium channel opener, UR-8225, on contractile responses in rat isolated smooth muscle

1. The effects of UR-8225 [(1,2-dihydro-4-(1,2-dihydro-2-oxo-1-pyridyl)-2,2-dimethyl-1-oxonapht halen-6- carbonitrile)] and levcromakalim were studied on the electrical and contractile responses induced by noradrenaline and KCl and on 86Rb+ efflux in rat aortic rings and on spontaneous mechanical activity in rat portal vein segments. 2. UR-8225 and levcromakalim, 10(-9) M-10(-5) M, relaxed the contractile responses induced by noradrenaline (IC50 = 2.7 +/- 0.4 x 10(-6) M and 6.6 +/- 1.3 x 10(-7) M, respectively) or 30 mM KCl (IC50 = 1.4 +/- 0.2 x 10(-7) M and 9.4 +/- 1.3 x 10(-8) M, respectively) more effectively than those induced by 80 mM KCl. The relaxant effect on noradrenaline-induced contractions was independent of the presence or absence of functional endothelium. 3. The vasorelaxant effect of UR-8225 and levcromakalim can be competitively antagonized by glibenclamide, an ATP-sensitive K+ channel blocker. There were no differences in the calculated pA2 values for glibenclamide to inhibit UR-8225- and levcromakalim-induced relaxations (7.61 +/- 0.08 and 7.69 +/- 0.10, respectively). The slope of the Schild plot yielded values not significantly different from unity (0.95 +/- 0.06 and 0.96 +/- 0.05, respectively). 4. UR-8225 (10(-5) M) hyperpolarized the resting aortic membrane potential from -50.7 +/- 0.7 mV to -66.0 +/- 2.0 mV and stimulated 86Rb+ efflux. 5. UR-8225 and levcromakalim inhibited the contractions induced by Ca2+ in aortae incubated in Ca(2+)-free PSS containing methoxyverapamil in the presence of noradrenaline. 6. Both drugs inhibited the amplitude of spontaneous activity in portal veins (IC50 = 5.1 +/- 1.4 x 10-8 M and 1.5 +/- 0.7 x 10-8 M, respectively), this effect being competitively antagonized by glibenclamide.7. These results indicated that UR-8225 exhibited qualitatively similar, but slightly less potent,vasorelaxant effects than those exerted by levcromakalim, which suggests that they can be related to its ability to activate ATP-sensitive K+ channels in vascular smooth muscle cells.

Differential effects of acetylcholine, nitric oxide and levcromakalim on smooth muscle membrane potential and tone in the rabbit basilar artery

1. Endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization of smooth muscle cells in isolated, pre-contracted segments of rabbit basilar artery in response to acetylcholine (100 microM) was abolished in the presence of glibenclamide (10 microM). 2. Acetylcholine-evoked relaxation was unaffected by either glibenclamide or 65 mM potassium chloride, indicating that the change in membrane potential did not form an essential component of relaxation and that high concentrations of potassium did not inhibit the release or action of endothelium-derived relaxing factor in this vessel. 3. Saturated solutions of nitric oxide (NO) gas in solution (150 microM), which evoked maximal relaxation of arterial segments pre-contracted and depolarized by noradrenaline (10-100 microM), did not alter the membrane potential of either unstimulated or depolarized smooth muscle cells. 4. The potassium channel opener levcromakalim, evoked concentration-dependent relaxation and hyperpolarization in pre-constricted smooth muscle cells. The threshold concentrations for hyperpolarization and relaxation, the EC50 values and the maximally effective concentration of levcromakalim (around 30 nM, 150 nM and 10 microM, respectively) were not significantly different, and both components of the response were inhibited by glibenclamide (10 microM), indicating a close coupling between the two responses. 5. In the presence of 65 mM potassium chloride, the hyperpolarization to levcromakalim was abolished, while a small relaxation (25 +/- 4%) persisted, indicating an additional mechanism for relaxation to this agent. 6. These results show that different mechanisms underlie the relaxant action of potassium channel openers, NO and endothelium-derived factors in cerebral arteries and provide further evidence that in the basilar artery, in contrast to some other vessels, endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization to acetylcholine is not important for smooth muscle relaxation.

Evidence that depletion of internal calcium stores sensitive to noradrenaline elicits a contractile response dependent on extracellular calcium in rat aorta

1. Noradrenaline 1 microM induced a contractile response in rat isolated aorta in the presence or in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ with depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores. Thereafter, during incubation in the presence of Ca2+, an increase in the resting tone was observed. Such a contractile response did not occur after exposure to caffeine or 5-hydroxytryptamine. 2. This increase in tension was inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists (prazosin, phentolamine and yohimbine), the non-specific relaxing compound, papaverine and by the Ca(2+)-entry blocker, nifedipine. Therefore, this contractile process is related to depletion of Ca2+ stores sensitive to noradrenaline and is linked to Ca2+ entry through voltage-operated Ca2+ channels and alpha-adrenoceptors. 3. Phentolamine and yohimbine did not block the Ca2+ refill pathway; prazosin and nifedipine inhibited the reuptake of Ca2+ by an internal store sensitive only to noradrenaline; papaverine inhibited the refilling of caffeine- and noradrenaline-sensitive Ca(2+)-stores.

Do the K+ channel openers relax smooth muscle by opening K+ channels?

During the past decade, a group of chemically heterogeneous compounds known as the K+ channel openers has emerged. These compounds open a certain class of K+ channels (ATP-sensitive K+ channels) in the sarcolemma of vascular smooth muscle cells, which leads to hyperpolarization of the cell membrane and relaxation of the tissue. The mechanisms by which hyperpolarization affects smooth muscle contraction and contractility can thus be examined. Hyperpolarization induced by these K+ channel openers prevents Ca2+ entry through voltage-operated Ca2+ channels. Surprisingly, and by mechanisms not yet defined, hyperpolarization of the cell also reduces agonist-induced accumulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (and consequently, Ca2+ mobilization from intracellular stores), and the Ca2+ sensitivity of the contractile apparatus. In addition, recent evidence reviewed here by Ulrich Quast suggests that the K+ channel openers possess further mechanisms of vasorelaxation not linked to the opening of plasmalemmal K+ channels.

Hyperpolarization induced by K+ channel openers inhibits Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ release in coronary artery

The vasodilating mechanisms of the K+ channel openers--cromakalim, pinacidil, nicorandil, KRN2391, and Ki4032--were examined by measurement of the cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) using the fura-2 method in canine or porcine coronary arterial smooth muscle. The five K+ channel openers all produced a reduction of [Ca2+]i in 5 and 30 mM KCl physiological salt solution (PSS), the effects of which were antagonized by tetrabutylammonium (TBA) or glibenclamide, but failed to affect [Ca2+]i in 45 and 90 mM MCl-PSS. Cromakalim and Ki4032 only partially inhibited the 30 mM KCl-induced contractures, whereas pinacidil, nicorandil, and KRN2391 nearly abolished contractions produced by high KCl-PSS. The increased [Ca2+]i and force produced by a thromboxane A2 analogue, U46619, were inhibited by K+ channel openers and verapamil. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, U46619 induced a transient increase in [Ca2+]i with a contraction, which is effectively inhibited by cromakalim and Ki4032. Their inhibitory effects were blocked by TBA and counteracted by 20 mM KCl-induced depolarization. Cromakalim and Ki4032 did not affect caffeine-induced Ca2+ release. Cromakalim reduced U46619-induced IP3 production and TBA blocked this inhibitory effect. Thus, cromakalim and Ki4032 are more specific K+ channel openers than pinacidil, nicorandil, and KRN2391. The vasodilation related with a reduction of [Ca2+]i produced by K+ channel openers is due to the hyperpolarization of the plasma membrane resulting in not only the closure of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels but also inhibition of the production of IP3 and Ca2+ release from intracellular stores related to stimulation of the thromboxane A2 receptor.

Effects of cromakalim on the electrical slow wave in the circular muscle of guinea-pig gastric antrum

1. In circular muscle strips of the antrum of guinea-pig stomach, the effects of cromakalim were studied on mechanical activity and intracellular membrane potential. 2. Cromakalim inhibited mechanical activity at concentrations higher than 1 microM, accompanied by membrane hyperpolarization and a decrease in membrane resistance. The hyperpolarization was markedly potentiated in K(+)-free solution and was still observed in the absence of Na+. 3. Slow wave electrical activity was relatively resistant to cromakalim. Changes in its amplitude and frequency were not consistent but blockade of slow waves was never observed. In many preparations cromakalim induced spike-like potentials at the top of slow waves, or when spike-like potentials already existed they were potentiated. However, mechanical activity was always inhibited. 4. Inhibition by cromakalim of the phasic contractions associated with the slow waves, could not be reversed by increasing the external K+ concentration (12-30 mM). 5. The results suggest that in guinea-pig stomach muscle mechanical suppression by cromakalim does not simply result from membrane hyperpolarization or from inhibition of slow waves. A clear dissociation was found between the mechanical and electrical activities. Slow waves, particularly their frequency, are relatively insensitive to membrane hyperpolarization.

Effects of rubidium on responses to potassium channel openers in rat isolated aorta

1. In a physiological salt solution (PSS) in which potassium (K) was replaced by rubidium (Rb), segments of rat aorta precontracted with 20 mM RbCl were fully relaxed by K-channel openers with an order of potency levcromakalim > cromakalim > aprikalim > RP 49356. These relaxations were inhibited by glibenclamide. 2. Segments of rat aorta bathed in normal PSS and precontracted with 20 mM KCl were also relaxed by these K-channel openers with an order of potency levcromakalim > cromakalim > aprikalim > RP 49356. These relaxations were glibenclamide-sensitive. However, the absolute potencies of the K-channel openers were approximately four times greater in normal PSS than in RbPSS. 3. In RbPSS, minoxidil sulphate relaxed segments of aorta precontracted with 20 mM RbCl by approximately 20% whereas in normal PSS it fully relaxed those contracted with 20 mM KCl. 4. In RbPSS, levcromakalim-induced relaxation of aortic segments precontracted with 20 mM RbCl was initially well-maintained but then faded by approximately 60% of the initial relaxation to a new, stable level. Subsequent exposure to RP 49356 or to higher concentrations of levcromakalim was without further relaxant effect. Similar changes were observed when RP 49356 was the initial relaxant and tissues were exposed to either RP 49356 or levcromakalim. In normal PSS, levcromakalim- or RP 49356-induced relaxation of contractions produced by 20 mM KCl was well-maintained. 5. In RbPSS, minoxidil sulphate-induced relaxation of aortic segments precontracted with 20 mM RbCl was well-maintained. Subsequent exposure to either levcromakalim or to RP 49356 produced further tissue relaxation. 6. In RbPSS, levcromakalim produced no detectable increase in either 86Rb- or 42K-efflux from rat aortic strips. In normal PSS, a significant increase in the exchange of both isotopes was detected.7. Levcromakalim hyperpolarized segments of rat aorta bathed both in normal PSS and after depolarization by the addition of 20 mM KCI. Exposure to RbPSS depolarized the tissue and under these conditions, levcromakalim had no effect on membrane potential.8. In Rb- and normal PSS, levcromakalim produced a similar degree of inhibition of the refilling of then or adrenaline-sensitive Ca store.9. It is concluded that millimolar concentrations of Rb inhibit the plasmalemmal ATP-sensitive K-channels (KATP) which are the target of the K-channel openers. The relaxant actions of the K-channel openers in both normal and Rb-PSS and the inhibition of these effects by glibenclamide may reflect a functional interaction between these agents at ATP-binding sites associated with both KATP and with intracellular structures including Ca stores.

Effects of cromakalim (BRL 34915) in trachea isolated from actively sensitized guinea-pigs

The effects of cromakalim were examined in tracheal strips isolated from normal (unsensitized) guinea-pigs and from animals actively sensitized to bovine serum albumin. Sensitized tracheae exhibited hyper-responsiveness to KCl, acetylcholine and histamine. In normal and sensitized tracheae, cromakalim (0.01-10 microM) produced a concentration-related suppression of spontaneous tone. The ability of cromakalim to relax tracheal strips was reduced when tone was raised by KCl (25 mM), acetylcholine (0.1 mM) or histamine (0.1 mM) and lost against KCl (120 mM)-induced spasm. Procaine (5 mM) abolished the relaxant effect of cromakalim whilst tetraethylammonium (8 mM) was without effect. These effects were similar in normal and sensitized tissues. Cromakalim (10 microM) produced minor alterations of the concentration-effect curves of KCl (1-100 mM), acetylcholine (1 nM-1 mM) and histamine (1 nM-1 mM) in normal and sensitized tissues. The results from this pharmacomechanical study do not support the hypothesis that altered properties of cromakalim-sensitive K+ channels underlie the airway hyper-reactivity induced by active sensitization to bovine serum albumin.

Inhibitory effect of cromakalim in human detrusor muscle is mediated by glibenclamide-sensitive potassium channels

The effects of cromakalim, a potassium channel activating drug, and glibenclamide, a relatively selective antagonist of ATP-sensitive potassium channels, have been investigated on isolated detrusor muscle from human bladder. Specimens of human bladder were cut into strips and suspended in an organ bath filled with modified Tyrode solution for measurement of isometric contractile force. Concentration-response curves to acetylcholine were constructed before and after pretreatment with cromakalim and cromakalim plus glibenclamide. The concentration-response curves to acetylcholine were displaced to the right, and the maximal response to acetylcholine was significantly inhibited by cromakalim in a concentration-dependent manner. The inhibitory effect of cromakalim on acetylcholine-induced contraction was significantly reduced by glibenclamide. Following sustained contraction induced by 20 mM. KCl, the cumulative addition of cromakalim to the organ bath produced a concentration-dependent relaxation. However, in strips precontracted with 60 mM. KCl, the addition of cromakalim in concentrations as high as 10(-5) M. did not induce relaxation. The relaxation induced by cromakalim in strips precontracted with 20 mM. KCl was significantly inhibited by glibenclamide. These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of cromakalim in human bladder involves activation of glibenclamide-sensitive potassium channels.

Current trends in the study of potassium channel openers

Some eight years ago it was found that certain smooth muscle relaxants exert their effect by opening a specific K+ channel resulting in cell membrane hyperpolarization. The use of K+ channel openers (cromakalim, pinacidil and RP-52891) and compounds which antagonize their actions (glibenclamide, phentolamine and alinidine) has enabled a great deal of research to be performed into the role of this K+ channel, not only in smooth muscle, but also in cardiac and skeletal muscle as well as neural and endocrine organ function. Much of the attention has centred on the smooth muscle relaxant actions of the K+ channel openers, since they have potential therapeutic use in disorders involving smooth muscle over-reactivity such as hypertension and asthma. More recently the cardiac actions of the K+ channel openers have become the focus of interest. Although there appear to be good theoretical reasons why K+ channel openers may be of use in some arrhythmias and in ischaemic heart disease there are major hurdles to overcome. In particular, given that the effect of these compounds on vascular smooth muscle occurs at a concentration 20- to 100-fold lower than that required to produce cardiac effects, it is likely their therapeutic usefulness will be limited until a breakthrough in cardiac/vascular selectivity is made. There is also growing interest in endogenous K+ channel openers and the physiological role of the K+ channel which they open. Opening of K+ channels, either spontaneously or by endogenous regulators, could possibly be an important hypotensive mechanism both under normal conditions and in a number of pathological conditions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Characteristics of the contractile response of rabbit aorta produced by cromakalim in calcium-free solution

1 The effect of potassium channel opening compounds has been investigated in the smooth muscle of rabbit aorta under Ca-free conditions. Examination of the characteristics of the response has been performed using cromakalim as the prototype compound. 2 In order of potency, Ro 31-6930, cromakalim, minoxidil sulphate and pinacidil each produced a contraction in rabbit aortic strips bathed in Ca-free MOPS-buffered physiological salt solution (PSS). In contrast, forskolin, glyceryl trinitrate and nifedipine each failed to increase tension under identical conditions. Cromakalim also evoked contraction of bovine trachealis muscle bathed in Ca-free PSS. 3. The contractile response to cromakalim in rabbit aortic strips was of delayed onset (15-20 min) and reached a plateau after approximately 120 min (1.8 g maximum with 1 microM cromakalim). No cromakalim-induced tension changes were observed in either 1 mM or 2.5 mM Ca-containing PSS. 4. Raising the [KCl] of the Ca-free PSS to 65.9 mM fully inhibited the cromakalim-induced contraction in rabbit aortic strips. In addition, pretreatment of aortic strips with the sulphonylurea glibenclamide antagonized the subsequent mechanical response to cromakalim. 5. In Ca-free PSS, cromakalim (1 microM) stimulated 42K-efflux with a time-course corresponding to the contractile event. Glibenclamide (1 microM) inhibited this cromakalim-induced 42K-efflux. 6. In sharp microelectrode studies in bovine trachealis, cromakalim (10 microM) produced a sustained membrane hyperpolarization in normal PSS. In contrast, the cromakalim-induced hyperpolarization in Ca-free PSS was not sustained. The fading of the hyperpolarization was temporally correlated with the increase in tension under these experimental conditions. 7. It is concluded that the K-channel opener-induced smooth muscle contractile response revealed in Ca-free PSS is the consequence of K-channel opening. The nature of the detailed mechanism which underlies this contractile phenomenon remains to be determined.

K+ channel openers, cromakalim and Ki4032, inhibit agonist-induced Ca2+ release in canine coronary artery

The effects of K+ channel openers, cromakalim and an acetoxyl derivative of KRN2391 (Ki4032), were studied on force of contraction, increases in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) measured by fura-2 and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) production induced by the thromboxane A2 analogue, U46619, in canine coronary arteries. Upon single dose applications of U46619 at 300 nmol/l, phasic and tonic increases in [Ca2+]i and force were seen, which were almost abolished by cromakalim (10 mumol/l) and Ki4032 (100 mumol/l). In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, U46619 induced a transient increase in [Ca2+]i with a contraction. Cromakalim (0.01-10 mumol/l) and Ki4032 (0.1-100 mumol/l) concentration-dependently inhibited the increases in [Ca2+]i and contraction. The inhibitory effects of cromakalim and Ki4032 were blocked by the K+ channel blocker tetrabutylammonium (TBA) and counteracted by 20 mmol/l KCl-induced depolarization. Cromakalim and Ki4032 did not affect caffeine-induced Ca2+ release. Cromakalim reduced U46619-induced IP3 production significantly and TBA blocked this inhibitory effect. These results suggest that the hyperpolarization of the plasma membrane by K+ channel openers inhibits the production of IP3 and Ca2+ release from intracellular stores related to stimulation of the thromboxane A2 receptor.

Lack of effect of potassium channel openers on ATP-modulated potassium channels recorded from rat ventromedial hypothalamic neurones

1. Single neuronal cells were freshly isolated from the ventromedial hypothalamic nuclei (VMHN) of the rat brain. Currents through ATP-modulated and large conductance (160 and 250 pS) calcium-activated potassium channels were recorded by the cell-attached and excised inside-out patch techniques. 2. BRL38227 (lemakalim; 30-90 microM) applied to the superfusing medium produced no change in firing rate of isolated glucose-receptive VMHN neurones in cell-attached recordings. 3. BRL38227, at concentrations of between 30-100 microM applied to the intracellular (cytoplasmic) aspect of inside-out patches, had no effect on the activity of ATP-sensitive K+ channels in the absence of ATP or in the presence of a sub-maximal inhibitory concentration (3 mM) of ATP. Cromakalim, pinacidil, minoxidil sulphate and diazoxide also produced no effect under these conditions. 4. The potassium channel openers (KCO's) were tested on ATP-activated potassium channels recorded from a further subpopulation of VMHN neurones. Application of BRL38227 (up to and including 100 microM) to this channel in inside-out patches either in the absence of ATP or when activated by 5 mM ATP had no effect on channel activity. Identical results were obtained with cromakalim and pinacidil. 5. BRL38227 had no effect on either of the large conductance (250 pS and 160 pS) calcium-activated potassium channels in VMHN neurones. 6. Intracellular recordings were made from glucose-receptive VMHN neurones in rat brain slices. Cromakalim (50 microM) or diazoxide (60 microM) did not alter the firing rate or passive membrane properties of these neurones demonstrated to be sensitive to tolbutamide (0.1 mM). 7. These results show that the KCO's tested in this study have no effect either on VMHN neurones contained in brain slices or on the activity of any of the ATP-modulated potassium channels under isolated patch conditions associated with these neurones.

Potassium channel openers: pharmacological and clinical aspects

Opening of plasmalemmal K+ channels leads to cellular hyperpolarization which, in excitable tissues possessing voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels, prevents the opening of such channels and thus prevents excitation. In the last few years, an increasing number of compounds have been identified which elicit their effects by opening K+ channels, preferentially in smooth muscle, but also in other excitable tissues. These include the novel benzpyrans, cromakalim and bimakalim, the thioformamide aprikalim, and also well known antihypertensives such as minoxidil sulphate, diazoxide and pinacidil. After a short overview of the various families of K+ channel openers (KCOs), their basic pharmacological properties, including inhibition by the sulfonyl ureas (such as glibenclamide) are presented. The actual discussion concerning the type of K+ channel(s) opened by these compounds and their mechanism(s) of vasorelaxation will be reported. The therapeutic potential of these compounds in the cardiovascular field (as antihypertensives and, in particular, as anti-ischemic agents in heart and skeletal muscle), and in asthma (where they reverse established airway hyperreactivity) will also be discussed. Improved tissue selectivity may be the essential pre-requisite for true clinical success of this class of compounds.

The relaxant effects of cromakalim (BRL 34915) on human isolated airway smooth muscle

Cromakalim (BRL 34915) is a potassium channel opener with therapeutic potential as a bronchodilator in asthma. Cromakalim (0.1-30 mumol/l) inhibited the spontaneous tone of human isolated bronchi in a concentration-related manner being nearly as effective as isoprenaline or theophylline. The order of relaxant potencies (expressed as -log10 IC50 mol/l; mean +/- SEM) was isoprenaline (7.29 +/- 0.27; n = 8) > cromakalim (5.89 +/- 0.12; n = 7) > theophylline (4.07 +/- 0.13; n = 10). In human bronchi where tone had been raised by addition of histamine (0.1 mmol/l), acetylcholine (0.1 mmol/l) or leukotriene D4 (LTD4, 0.1 mumol/l), the relaxant effect of cromakalim was substantially reduced. Cromakalim suppressed the contraction produced by KCl (25 mmol/l) but not that produced by KCl (120 mmol/l). Tetraethylammonium (8 mmol/l) was without effect against the relaxant action of cromakalim but procaine (0.5-5 mmol/l) and glibenclamide (0.3 mumol/l) antagonised it. Cromakalim (10 mumol/l) produced an upward displacement of concentration-effect curves for KCl (1-100 mmol/l), acetylcholine (1 nmol/l-1 mmol/l) and histamine (1 nmol/l-1 mmol/l) but it did not alter the concentration-effect curve for LTD4 (0.1 nmol/l-0.1 mumol/l). When tissues were challenged in the presence of cromakalim (10 mumol/l) with KCl (100 mmol/l), acetylcholine (1 mmol/l) or histamine (1 mmol/l), an enhanced contraction was observed compared to control tissues. This enhancement by cromakalim was absent when tissues were challenged with acetylcholine or histamine in either a Ca(2+)-free medium (plus EGTA 0.1 mmol/l) or in the presence of verapamil (10 mumol/l).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Activation of phospholipase C by the agonist U46619 is inhibited by cromakalim-induced hyperpolarization in porcine coronary artery

We measured inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) production, intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) and force of contraction induced by a thromboxane A2 analogue U46619 in porcine coronary artery to elucidate the relaxant effect of a K+ channel opener cromakalim. Cromakalim (10 microM) significantly inhibited the production of IP3, Ca2+ release from intracellular stores and contraction induced by 300 nM U46619. The inhibitory effect of cromakalim on IP3 was blocked by a K+ channel blocker tetrabutylammonium (TBA, 3 mM) and counteracted by 20 mM KCl-induced depolarization. These results suggest that the hyperpolarization of the plasma membrane by cromakalim inhibits the activation of phospholipase via the stimulation of the thromboxane A2 receptor to result in vasodilation.

Effects of cromakalim on the contraction and the membrane potential of the circular smooth muscle of guinea-pig stomach

1. The effects of cromakalim on mechanical and electrical activities of the circular smooth muscles of guinea-pig stomach antrum were observed. 2. Cromakalim (greater than 1 x 10(-7) M) decreased the amplitude of spontaneous rhythmic contractions and also the acetylcholine-enhanced spontaneous contractions. Cromakalim was less effective against the 25.9 mM and 35.9 mM K(+)-induced tonic contractions. 3. Glibenclamide (1 x 10(-6) M) itself caused no detectable change in the spontaneous contractions, those potentiated by acetylcholine or tonic contractions induced by high K+ solutions, but attenuated the actions of cromakalim. On the other hand, charybdotoxin (3 x 10(-8) M) increased the amplitude of spontaneous contractions but failed to affect the actions of cromakalim. 4. Cromakalim (greater than 1 x 10(-6) M) decreased the amplitude and duration of slow waves, and hyperpolarized the membrane. These actions of cromakalim were completely antagonized by 1 x 10(-6) M glibenclamide, whereas part of the effects of cromakalim on mechanical activity was resistant to glibenclamide. 5. The results suggest that the inhibition by cromakalim of the electrical activity and the hyperpolarization, which may be associated with the opening of glibenclamide-sensitive K+ channel, are responsible for its inhibitory action on circular smooth muscle of guinea-pig stomach. Further, some effects independent of glibenclamide-sensitive K+ channel may also be responsible for the mechanical effect.

Comparative effects of BRL 38227, nitrendipine and isoprenaline on carbachol- and histamine-stimulated phosphoinositide metabolism in airway smooth muscle

1. The ability of BRL 38227 and nitrendipine to affect muscarinic agonist and histamine-stimulated [3H]-inositol phosphate accumulation in slices of bovine tracheal smooth muscle has been studied and compared with the established inhibitory effects of isoprenaline on this pathway. 2. Pre-addition of BRL 38227 (5 microM), nitrendipine (1 microM) or isoprenaline (10 microM) significantly inhibited the subsequent inositol phosphate response to histamine at all concentrations studied (10- 1000 microM). BRL 38227 and nitrendipine also significantly inhibited the [3H]-inositol phosphate response to low (1 microM), but not high (100 microM) concentrations of carbachol. Isoprenaline had no effect at any concentration of carbachol studied. 3. Nitrendipine (IC50 = 95 nM) and BRL 38227 (IC50 = 322 nM) caused concentration-related inhibitions of the inositol phosphate response to histamine (100 microM). Similar maximal inhibitions were caused by each agent (55-58%). Inhibitory effect of BRL 38227 was reduced in potency (IC50 = 5.5 microM), but not magnitude, in the presence of glibenclamide (0.5 microM). 4. Time-course studies comparing the effects of BRL 38227 addition 15 min before, and 10 min after histamine challenge showed that for pre-addition a distinct (less than 2 min) lag occurred following histamine addition before the inhibitory effect of BRL 38227 was manifest. In contrast, when BRL 38227 was added 10 min after histamine, an inhibitory effect was immediately apparent. 5. Further evidence for an initial, 'protected' phase of inositol phosphate accumulation was provided by the finding that BRL 38227 pre-addition had no effect on the early (0-300 s) time-course of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate mass accumulation. 6. The inhibitory effect of BRL 38227, but not that of nitrendipine or isoprenaline, on histaminestimulated [3H]-inositol phosphate accumulation was completely prevented in the presence of an elevated extracellular K+ (65 mM) concentration. 7. The results demonstrate that membrane hyperpolarization, and/or blockade of voltage-operated Ca2"-channels can regulate agonist-stimulated phosphoinositide metabolism in airway smooth muscle. The possible contribution of this regulatory mechanism to the relaxant properties of these agents is discussed.

Effect of K+ channel-modulating drugs on the vasoconstrictor responses of leukotrienes C4, D4 and angiotensin II in the guinea-pig isolated perfused heart

1. The vascular actions of leukotrienes C4 (LTC4) and LTD4 in the guinea-pig isolated perfused heart were studied in the presence of potassium (K+) channel modulatory compounds. 2. Cromakalim (0.35-10 microM), a K+ channel activator, inhibited the vasoconstrictor responses of LTC4 (30 pmol), LTD4 (30 pmol) and angiotensin II (AII) (100 pmol) in a concentration-dependent manner. 3. Glyceryl trinitrate (10 mgl-1) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (10 nM) induced a similar vasodilator action to cromakalim in the isolated heart but had no effect on responses to LTC4 and LTD4. 4. The inhibitory action by cromakalim (10 microM) on the LTC4 (30 pmol) response could be reversed in the presence of an equimolar concentration of glibenclamide. However, glibenclamide (10 microM) only partially restored the LTD4 (30 pmol) actions. 5. Galanin (10 nM) and charybdotoxin (60 nM) had no effect on the vascular responses to LTC4 and LTD4 (30 pmol). 6. Inhibition by cromakalim of coronary vasospasm induced by vascular LTC4, LTD4 and AII appears to be separate from its vasodilator action and it is postulated that a cromakalim-sensitive mechanism in the coronary vasculature is important in the vasoconstrictor responses to LTC4, LTD4 and AII.

Differential inhibition by tedisamil (KC 8857) and glibenclamide of the responses to cromakalim and minoxidil sulphate in rat isolated aorta

The effects of the K+ channel blockers tedisamil and glibenclamide on cromakalim- and minoxidil sulphate-induced 42K+ and 86Rb+ efflux and vasorelaxation in rat aorta, were investigated. In aortic strips preloaded with 42K+ or 86Rb+, cromakalim (1 mumol/l) induced increases in tracer efflux, which were concentration-dependently inhibited by tedisamil with similar potencies (pD2 approximately 7.3) but different amplitudes (maximum inhibition of 86Rb+ efflux to 0% of control, 42K+ efflux to 10 +/- 1%). The 42K+ efflux elicited by a low concentration of cromakalim (100 nmol/l) was, however, fully inhibited by tedisamil. The tracer effluxes induced by minoxidil sulphate were fully inhibited by tedisamil and glibenclamide (300 nM). Cromakalim and minoxidil sulphate, produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of noradrenaline (100 nmol/l)-induced tone, with pD2 values of approximately 7.3. Tedisamil (300 nmol/l) and glibenclamide (300 nmol/l), which inhibited cromakalim- and minoxidil sulphate-induced 42K+ and 86Rb+ efflux by greater than or equal to 80%, produced 2-fold and 40-fold shifts in the concentration-relaxation curve for cromakalim, and 3.5-fold and 2200-fold shifts in the concentration-relaxation curve for minoxidil sulphate, respectively. Similar shifts of the cromakalim concentration-relaxation curve in the presence of tedisamil and glibenclamide were also observed when the tissues were precontracted with potassium chloride (25 mmol/l). The results show that tedisamil and glibenclamide inhibit the cromakalim- and minoxidil sulphate-induced tracer effluxes with similar potencies whereas they differ greatly in their ability to inhibit the vasorelaxant effects of the two K+ channel openers.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Direct action of BRL 38227 and glibenclamide on intracellular calcium stores in cultured airway smooth muscle of rabbit

The effects of BRL 38227 and glibenclamide on intracellular calcium stores were investigated in permeabilized cultured airway smooth muscle cells of the rabbit using 45Ca effluxes. BRL 38227 (10 microM) reduced loading of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3)-sensitive intracellular store by 26.5% +/- 1.0; this effect was antagonized by 1 microM glibenclamide. BRL 38227 itself did not release calcium and had no effect on guanosine 5'-0-(3-thiotriphosphate)-induced calcium release. Glibenclamide (greater than or equal to 5 microM) also reduced calcium loading of the intracellular store, and enhanced calcium release. These results suggest that BRL 38227 has a direct effect on intracellular calcium handling.

Some degree of overlap exists between the K(+)-channels opened by cromakalim and those opened by minoxidil sulphate in rat isolated aorta

The effects of the K+ channel opening drugs minoxidil sulphate and cromakalim, on 42K+ and 86Rb+ efflux and on vasorelaxation in rat isolated aorta, were compared. In rat aortic rings precontracted with noradrenaline (100 nmol/l), minoxidil sulphate and cromakalim concentration-dependently inhibited induced tension by up to 90%, with pD2 values of 7.35 +/- 0.1 and 7.17 +/- 0.1, respectively. Glibenclamide (300 nmol/l), produced 2200- and 19-fold rightward shifts in the concentration-relaxation curves to minoxidil sulphate and cromakalim, respectively, without an effect on the maximum relaxation. Both minoxidil sulphate and cromakalim increased the efflux of 42K+ and 86Rb+ from aorta in a concentration-dependent manner, with midpoints in the mumol/l range; the maximum efflux induced by minoxidil sulphate being approximately one tenth of that induced by cromakalim. The ratio of stimulated 86Rb+/42K+ efflux increased from 0.22 to 0.48 with increasing cromakalim concentrations, but was approximately constant (approximately 0.39) when the minoxidil sulphate concentration was varied. In the presence of minoxidil sulphate, the effects of cromakalim on 42K+ and 86Rb+ efflux were inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner, by up to 60%. In the continuing presence of cromakalim (300 nmol/l), minoxidil sulphate (10 mumol/l)-induced increases in 42K+ and 86Rb+ efflux were inhibited by 45%, whereas conditioning with cromakalim (1 mumol/l) inhibited the 86Rb+ efflux stimulated by additional superfusion of cromakalim (1 mumol/l) by 85%. Glibenclamide inhibited minoxidil sulphate (10 mumol/l)- and cromakalim (1 mumol/l)-induced increases in 42K+ and 86Rb+ efflux in a concentration-dependent manner with IC50 values of approximately 80 nmol/l.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Cromakalim inhibits contractions of the rat isolated mesenteric bed induced by noradrenaline but not caffeine in Ca(2+)-free medium: evidence for interference with receptor-mediated Ca2+ mobilization

The effects of the K+ channel opener cromakalim on phasic contractions induced by noradrenaline and caffeine were studied in the rat isolated mesenteric bed. In the presence of 1.4 mM Ca2+, 1-s pulses of noradrenaline increased the perfusion pressure of the preparation concentration dependently (midpoint at 92 +/- 10 microM noradrenaline). Cromakalim (0.3 and 1 microM) inhibited these contractions in a non-competitive manner. Contractions elicited by 1-s pulses of noradrenaline (100 microM) were inhibited by the dihydropyridine Ca2+ antagonist isradipine by maximally 24 +/- 1%, indicating that only a minor component of this contraction depended on Ca2+ entry via dihydropyridine-sensitive Ca2+ channels. Cromakalim was a much more effective inhibitor of these contractions (maximum inhibition by 80%, midpoint of the inhibition curve at 171 +/- 15 nM). The effect of cromakalim was stereoselective, inhibited by the sulphonylurea glibenclamide, and abolished in partially depolarizing media (KCl = 35 and 50 mM). In Ca(2+)-free medium, cromakalim inhibited the contraction induced by noradrenaline (100 microM) by maximally 69 +/- 4%, with a midpoint at 58 +/- 14 nM. The effect of cromakalim was again stereoselective, inhibited by glibenclamide, and abolished in the presence of 50 mM KCl. Contractions induced by caffeine (10 and 100 microM) were not affected by cromakalim (1 microM). The results indicate that, in rat mesenteric resistance vessels, cromakalim interferes with the ability of noradrenaline, but not caffeine, to mobilize Ca2+ from intracellular stores. The antivasoconstrictor effect of cromakalim against noradrenaline is inhibited by glibenclamide and appears to be linked to the ability of cromakalim to hyperpolarize the cell membrane.

Tedisamil (KC 8857) differentially inhibits the 86Rb+ efflux-stimulating and vasorelaxant properties of cromakalim

Tedisamil, a blocker of cardiac K+ channels, potently inhibited cromakalim-induced 86Rb+ efflux from rat aorta with a pIC50 = 7.3, a value similar to that obtained with the sulphonylurea glibenclamide. However, tedisamil was approximately 30 times less potent than glibenclamide in inhibiting the vasorelaxant effects of cromakalim. The data suggest that tedisamil can dissociate between the efflux-inducing and vasorelaxant effects of cromakalim and may therefore prove to be an important tool in elucidating the mechanism of action of this vasorelaxant.