Nucleotide-evoked ion transport and [Ca 2+] i changes in normal and hyperhidrotic human sweat gland cells

Abstract

Apical and basolateral application of ATP and UTP evoked [Ca 2+] i and short circuit current (Isc) increases in normal and hyperhidrotic human eccrine sweat gland cells grown into functionally polarised epithelia on permeable supports. Basolateral application to hyperhidrotic cells exhibited a markedly greater increase in Isc than in normal cells. Hyperhidrotic cells also demonstrated differences from the normal in [Ca 2+] i and Isc responses to ATP when pre-treated with thapsigargin. The data demonstrate the presence of apical and basolateral receptors that allow nucleotides to increase [Ca 2+] i and Isc. The results suggest that changes from the normal in transepithelial ion transport contribute to the characteristic excessive fluid production of hyperhidrotic sweat glands.