Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Contractility Measurements on Isolated Papillary Muscles for the Investigation of Cardiac Inotropy in Mice
Published on: September 17, 2015
Post-extrasystolic potentiation; effect of Ca, histamine, caffeine and epinephrine
Abstract:
The influence of caffeine, epinephrine, histamine and high Ca solutions on post-extrasystolic potentiation of guinea-pig's isolated heart muscle was investigated. It was found that caffeine suppressed the potentiation process while epinephrine and high Ca solutions enhanced it. Histamine caused a gradual decrease in post-extrasystolic potentiation. The results support the view that the potentiation process is related to an increased Ca release by the terminal vesicles caused by paired stimulation.
Related Concept Videos
Adrenergic Neurons: Neurotransmission
Synthesis: Catecholamine synthesis requires tyrosine, which is taken...
Adrenergic Receptors: β Subtype
Isoprenaline > Adrenaline > Noradrenaline
Neurotransmitter binding to these receptors causes activation of adenylyl cyclase resulting in increased concentrations of cAMP and modulation of calcium ion channels within the cell. They are further classified into β1, β2, and β3 subtypes.
β1-adrenoceptors: β1-adrenoceptors have equal affinities for...
Adrenergic Agonists: Indirect-Acting Agents
One mechanism involves depleting stored catecholamines by displacing them from synaptic vesicles. These agents, known as "displacers," are transported into vesicles at the expense of noradrenaline. Examples include amphetamine and tyramine, which lack a catechol moiety, resulting in prolonged action, improved oral bioavailability, and...
Adrenergic Agonists: Mixed-Action Agents
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine lack a catecholamine group, making them less susceptible to degradation by metabolic enzymes. They have increased oral bioavailability and lipophilicity, resulting in a longer duration of action. Their response is reduced by...
Integration of Synaptic Events
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology

