Abstract
The expression of mRNAs for three P2X receptor subtypes (PX2<sub>1</sub>, P2X<sub>2</sub>, P2X<sub>4</sub>) in the rat vascular system was studied by in situ hybridization and RT-PCR. In heart sections mRNAs transcripts for all three receptors were colocalized in smooth muscle cells of coronary vessels, while no specific positivity was apparent in myocardium. Coexpression of P2X receptor mRNA transcripts were also observed in other peripheral vessels, including aorta, pulmonary artery, internal and external iliac arteries, renal artery and femoral artery. By contrast, no mRNA transcripts of the above receptors were found in the superior mesenteric artery. RT-PCR performed on microdissected tissues (coronary arteries, aorta and myocardium from various heart areas) confirmed the presence of P2X<sub>1</sub>, P2X<sub>2</sub> and P2X<sub>4</sub> receptor mRNAs. Furthermore, in the same tissues two splice variants of the P2X<sub>2</sub> receptor were identified. These results reveal an important molecular heterogeneity of P2X receptors, thus substantiating the possibility of a heteropolymeric assembly of ATP-gated ion channels in the cardiovascular system.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
