The role of Ni ²⁺ ‐sensitive T‐type Ca ²⁺ channels in the regulation of spontaneous excitation in detrusor smooth muscles of the guinea‐pig bladder

Abstract

The T-type Ca(2+) channel may have dual roles in generating spontaneous excitation in detrusor smooth muscles. First, activity of these channels may account for the preceding depolarizations that lead to action potentials. Second, Ca(2+) influx through T-type Ca(2+) channels may couple functionally to SK channels, contributing to the stability of the resting membrane potential in detrusor smooth muscle. Thus, pharmacological manipulation of T-type Ca(2+) channels in detrusor smooth muscles could be of potential value for treating the overactive bladder.