Calcium modulators and the gut: an update

Calcium is critical for stimulus-secretion coupling at the cellular level in the gut. Recent experimental evidence suggests a role for calcium modulating compounds in vivo. Specifically, calcium channel blocking drugs of the dihydropyridine class exert potent anti-secretory and anti-stress ulcer effects. However, these same compounds exacerbate ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury. Calcium chelating compounds, including EDTA and EGTA, reduce both forms of experimental ulcer as well as gastric secretion. Mechanisms underlying the gastroprotective effects of calcium modulating agents include neural, hormonal, peptide and enzymatic activity and these compounds represent a viable avenue of research for future therapeutic development.