Objective
Adenosine, a metabolite whose production is increased during metabolic inhibition, is known to exert inhibitory effects on heart. Recently, however, it has been shown that low concentrations of adenosine (Ado) increase automaticity in the isolated right ventricle of the rat, whereas inhibition is seen at high concentrations. Both effects are antagonized by theophylline, suggesting interaction with an extracellularly located Ado receptor. The aim of the present project is to analyse at different levels the stimulatory effect of Ado:
1) characterization of the Ado receptor by radioligand studies; 2) pharmacological study of the interaction with adrenergic receptors; 3) analysis of the underlying electrophysiological changes in terms of ionic currents at the single cell level (patch electrode) and of the eventual concomitant changes in intracellular Ca concentration, using the indo-fluorescence method.
Funding Scheme
CSC - Cost-sharing contractsCoordinator
3000 Leuven
Belgium
Participants (2)
2781 Oeiras
30100 Murcia