Abstract
Ca2+ (ICa) and K+ (IK) currents were recorded in single cultured cells from rat aorta using the whole cell clamp technique with patch electrodes. ICa was detected at−30 mV, and at 20 mV it reached a peak in about 10 ms and decayed with a t1/2=50 ms. The mean maximum slope conductance (GCa) was 30 μS/cm2. IK was detected at−10 mV and at 20 mV reached its maximum with a t1/2=12 ms. For IK, GK=200 μS/cm2. These channels can be activated during action potentials and play a role in the excitation and contraction of vascular smooth muscle cells.

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