Abstract
Effects of procaine (50–500 μg/ml) on membrane potential and currents were investigated using a two microelectrode-voltage clamp technique. Procaine reduced the action potential amplitude (APA), the maximum diastolic potential and the maximum rate of depolarization (Vmax) in a dose-dependent manner. At the same time, the action potential duration and the cycle length were prolonged. In voltage clamp experiments, procaine (50 μg/ml) did not affect the slow inward current (Isi), but reduced the time-dependent outward current (Ik). At concentrations higher than 100 μg/ml, procaine reduced both currents and the inward current activated by hyperpolarization in a dose-dependent manner. In 7 of 20 specimens, a low concentration of procaine (50 or 100 μg/ml) increased Isi which enhanced the Vmax and APA, but did not increase Ik. Procaine did not affect the steady-state inactivation of Isi (f∞) and the activation of Ik (p∞). The results suggest that the depressions of currents induced by procaine are due to a reduction in conductances of the current systems.
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