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[Effect of substances modifying calcium movement on the contractility of cultured cardiac cells]
Comptes Rendus Des Seances De La Societe De Biologie Et De Ses Filiales
|January 1, 1985
Abstract:
Cultured cardiac cells from newborn rats were found to be sensitive to the positive or negative inotropic effect of agents capable of interfering with calcium movements. Calcium entry blockers were found specially potent, since diltiazem and nifedipine were still active at concentration of 1 X 10(-9) M. Such a bioassay system seems therefore convenient to compare the relative potency of drugs belonging to this pharmacological class.
Insights
Cultured rat heart cells show sensitivity to drugs affecting calcium movement. Calcium entry blockers like diltiazem and nifedipine are highly potent, making this cell system useful for comparing drug effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Science
- Cell Biology
Context:
- Cardiac cells are crucial for heart function.
- Calcium ions play a vital role in cardiac muscle contraction.
- Drug development requires reliable bioassay systems.
Purpose:
- To investigate the sensitivity of cultured cardiac cells to inotropic agents.
- To evaluate the potency of calcium entry blockers using a novel bioassay.
- To establish a convenient system for comparing drug efficacy in this class.
Summary:
- Cultured neonatal rat cardiac cells responded to agents altering calcium movement.
- Calcium entry blockers, specifically diltiazem and nifedipine, demonstrated significant potency.
- These drugs were effective at very low concentrations (1 x 10^-9 M).
Impact:
- This study introduces a practical bioassay for assessing calcium-modulating drugs.
- The findings facilitate the comparative analysis of calcium entry blocker potency.
- Provides a foundation for future drug screening and development in cardiovascular medicine.