Effects of ketamine on voltage-dependent Ca2+ currents in single smooth muscle cells from rabbit portal vein

The effects of ketamine on membrane potentials and long-lasting type (L-type) voltage-dependent Ca2+ currents were investigated in dispersed single smooth muscle cells from rabbit portal veins. The amplitude and duration of the action potentials evoked by intracellular stimulation were inhibited by ketamine and were completely blocked by 10(-3) mol/l ketamine. Ketamine, however, did not alter the resting membrane potential. Whole cell voltage clamp experiments revealed that ketamine at concentrations higher than 10(-4) mol/l reduced the peak L-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ currents. These effects of ketamine were concentration-dependent and reversible at concentrations from 10(-4) to 10(-3) mol/l. Moreover, the activation threshold of L-type Ca2+ current (approximately -30 mV) was slightly shifted to the positive potential side by ketamine. This effect can explain that the action potential was abolished by 10(-3) mol/l ketamine. It is concluded that relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle by ketamine may have to be attributed to the inhibition of L-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ current.