Abstract

Antigenic challenge often induces hyperreactivity in asthmatic airway, although the precise mechanism(s) underlying this increased responsiveness is not entirely known. Tracheae obtained from ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized saline- or OVA-challenged rats were placed in 10 mL bath chambers for isometric recording of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)-induced contractions. 5-Hydroxytryptamine induced a stronger contraction compared with control in antigen-challenged trachea under normal or Ca2+-free conditions. In tracheae pretreated with the L-type Ca2+ channel blocker nifedipine (10(-6) mol/L) or the Ca2+-activated Cl- channel blocker niflumic acid (10(-4) mol/L), this hyperresponsiveness was not developed in either normal or Ca2+-free medium. The increased contractile response to 5-HT in allergic rat isolated trachea may be related to a greater ionic (Ca2+ and Cl-) channel involvement.

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