Lithium slows neuronal calcium regulation in the snail Helix pomatia.
Steady-state and transient changes in intracellular calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i) of snail neurons (Helix pomatia) were measured by the Ca2+ indicator Arsenazo(III) following manipulation of the extracellular concentration of lithium chloride (LiCl). Application of LiCl in concentrations equivalent to those used in the treatment of manic-depressive illness produces slowing in Ca2+ reequilibration after Ca2+-influx during depolarization, concomitantly with steady-state elevation of [Ca2+]i of about 100 nM, suggesting a change in Ca2+ reequilibration as a prominent action of LiCl. This mechanism may be relevant to the therapeutic effects of LiCl.
Aldenhoff
J B
JB
Lux
H D
HD
D000818:Animals; D002118:Calcium / Q000378:metabolism*; D002463:Cell Membrane Permeability / Q000187:drug effects; D002712:Chlorides / Q000494:pharmacology*; D005724:Ganglia / Q000378:metabolism*; D006372:Helix, Snails; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008094:Lithium / Q000494:pharmacology*; D018021:Lithium Chloride; D012964:Sodium / Q000502:physiology
D002712:Chlorides; D008094:Lithium; D012964:Sodium; D018021:Lithium Chloride; D002118:Calcium