Potassium Channels and Membrane Potential in the Modulation of Intracellular Calcium in Vascular Endothelial Cells

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The endothelium plays a vital role in the control of vascular functions, including modulation of tone; permeability and barrier properties; platelet adhesion and aggregation; and secretion of paracrine factors. Critical signaling events in many of these functions involve an increase in intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). This rise in [Ca2+]i occurs via an interplay between several mechanisms, including release from intracellular stores, entry from the extracellular space through store depletion and second messenger‐mediated processes, and the establishment of a favorable electrochemical gradient. The focus of this review centers on the role of potassium channels and membrane potential in the creation of a favorable electrochemical gradient for Ca2+ entry. In addition, evidence is examined for the existence of various classes of potassium channels and the possible influence of regional variation in expression and experimental conditions. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 15, pp. 598‐610, May 2004)