[Effect of potassium ions on the contractile activity of renal artery smooth muscle]

Study of isolated segments of renal arteries in rabbits showed that decrease of potassium ion concentration in the bathing fluid was followed by increase in tension, while its increase from 5 meq/l to 10 meq/l was accompanied by gradual relaxation of vessel muscles and increase of their sensitivity to noradrenalin (NA). This relationship was lacking in segments activated with NA. The ability of NA and angiotensin to activate renal arterial muscles by electromechanic and pharmacomechanic coupling mechanismes was proved experimentally. The paper discussed the role of the cell membrane sodium potassium pump in vascular muscles.