Abstract
Potassium channels are an important determinant of smooth muscle excitability and force generation. Two potassium channels have been fully described in airway smooth muscle: large conductance, calcium-activated potassium channels and voltage-dependent delayed rectifier channels. This article will review the biophysics and pharmacology of these channels and discuss what is currently known with respect to their regulation and physiological significance.
MeSH terms
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Adrenergic beta-Agonists / pharmacology
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Animals
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Calcium / pharmacology*
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Electrophysiology
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Membrane Potentials / physiology
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Membrane Proteins / physiology
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Muscle, Smooth / metabolism
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Muscle, Smooth / physiology*
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Potassium / metabolism
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Potassium Channels / drug effects
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Potassium Channels / metabolism
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Potassium Channels / physiology*
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Respiratory Physiological Phenomena*
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Respiratory System / drug effects
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Respiratory System / metabolism
Substances
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Adrenergic beta-Agonists
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Membrane Proteins
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Potassium Channels
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Potassium
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Calcium