Potentiation of twitch contraction in guinea pig ureter by sodium vanadate

The effect of sodium vanadate on action potential and twitch contraction of guinea pig ureter was studied and compared with that of ouabain, elevated K+, low temperature, and a Ca agonist (BAY K 8644), which can be expected to exert certain comparative effects. Sodium vanadate markedly potentiated twitch contraction. Potentiation by vanadate was associated with marked prolongation of relaxation time. Sodium vanadate caused only slight depolarization of the membrane but marked changes in action potential. The duration of action potential was prolonged and the number of oscillatory spike potentials increased. These effects were different from those of other treatments. It is concluded that prolongation of action potential and the increase in the number of spikes are the main cause of potentiation of twitch contraction by sodium vanadate. In addition, inhibition of Ca pump activity of the smooth muscle membrane system by vanadate might also be involved in potentiation of twitch contraction.