Glabridin-induced vasorelaxation: Evidence for a role of BKCa channels and cyclic GMP

Abstract

Vasorelaxation to glabridin is dependent on the opening of K⁺ channels, particularly BK_Ca, probably caused by a rise in cellular [cyclic GMP] owing to phosphodiesterase inhibition. In the presence of sodium nitroprusside an effect of glabridin is observed at nM concentrations, similar those measured in plasma following human ingestion of licorice flavonoid oil.