Ca2+ currents in smooth muscle cells isolated from human prostate.
BACKGROUND
The objective of the investigation was to demonstrate the presence of voltage-dependent Ca2+ current in human prostate smooth muscle cells and to determine their biophysical characteristics.


METHODS
Prostate smooth muscle cells were isolated from biopsy samples of human prostates obtained from prostatectomy specimens or TURP chips. Electrophysiological recordings were made under current- or voltage-clamp using patch-type electrodes.


RESULTS
The average resting potential of prostate myocytes was 63 +/- 11 mV and action potentials (APs) could be elicited when K+ currents were blocked. With K-filled electrodes inward current was followed by a large outward component. When K+ currents were blocked a large Ca2+-sensitive inward current was measured. The inward current could be divided into two components, a fraction blocked by 30 microM verapamil and another by 20 microM NiCl2.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on the sensitivity to antagonists and holding potential both L-type and T-type Ca2+ channels were identified in human prostate smooth muscle.
Sui
G P
GP
Institute of Urology & Nephrology, 48 Riding House St, London, United Kingdom.
Wu
C
C
Fry
C H
CH
D001706:Biopsy; D015220:Calcium Channels / Q000502:physiology*; D018929:Cell Culture Techniques; D004594:Electrophysiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009130:Muscle, Smooth / Q000502:physiology*; D018408:Patch-Clamp Techniques; D011467:Prostate / Q000502:physiology*; D011468:Prostatectomy; D011470:Prostatic Hyperplasia / Q000503:physiopathology
D015220:Calcium Channels