Impaired Endothelin Calcium Signaling Coupled to Endothelin Type B Receptors in Penile Arteries from Insulin-Resistant Obese Zucker Rats

Abstract

Penile arteries from OZR exhibit an impaired ET-1 Ca(2+) signaling along with changes in the ET receptor profile. Thus, whereas ET-1 contraction and the associated [Ca(2+) ]i increase are mediated by smooth muscle ETA receptors in healthy arteries, ETB receptors contribute to contraction and are coupled to the augmented ET-1 [Ca(2+) ]i response under conditions of insulin resistance.