Abstract
Using dog mesenteric arterial ring preparations, we studied the in vitro vascular effects of tetramethylpyrazine (TMP, also known as Ligustrazine), a vasoactive component derived from Ligustium Wollichii Franchat; a widely used ingredient in Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. TMP had no effect on the resting force of the vascular muscle, but it caused a dose-dependent inhibition of vascular contractile responses to KCl and phenylephrine (PHE). These inhibitory effects of TMP were reversible and more prominent at lower agonist concentrations. TMP also inhibited the responses to PHE in Ca-free medium containing 50 microM EGTA suggesting the action on the release of intracellular Ca2+. Therefore, TMP is not a specific Ca-channel blocker as claimed previously. Its vasodilatory effect is mediated by the inhibition of Ca influx, as well as the release of intracellular Ca2+.
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.
