Calcium sparks in the intact gerbil spiral modiolar artery
2011
Calcium Sparks in the Gerbil Spiral Modiolar Artery
Sample size: 105
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Krishnamoorthy Gayathri, Regehr Keil, Berge Samantha, Scherer Elias Q, Wangemann Philine
Primary Institution: Kansas State University
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the presence and properties of calcium sparks in the intact gerbil spiral modiolar artery.
Conclusion
Calcium sparks may regulate the diameter of the spiral modiolar artery and cochlear blood flow.
Supporting Evidence
- Calcium sparks occurred with a frequency of 2.6 Hz.
- Ryanodine reduced spark frequency from 2.6 to 0.6 Hz.
- Caffeine increased spark frequency from 2.3 to 3.3 Hz.
- Elevated potassium increased spark frequency from 2.4 to 3.2 Hz.
Takeaway
The study found tiny signals called calcium sparks in a small artery in gerbils that help control blood flow to the ear.
Methodology
Calcium sparks were recorded from smooth muscle cells of intact arteries using fluo-4 AM and analyzed with custom software.
Participant Demographics
Female gerbils aged 2-3 months.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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