Aims
The aim of this study is to determine if smooth muscle cells displayed spontaneous Ca(2+) oscillations and, if so, whether these were regulated by NO.
Conclusions
These results provide a new basis for understanding detumescent tone in the corpus cavernosum and its inhibition by NO.
Methods
Male New Zealand white rabbits were euthanized and smooth muscle cells were isolated by enzymatic dispersal for confocal imaging of intracellular Ca(2+) (using fluo-4AM) and patch clamp recording of spontaneous membrane currents. Thin tissue slices were also loaded with fluo-4AM for live imaging of Ca(2+). Main outcome measure: Cytosolic Ca(2+) was measured in isolated smooth muscle cells and tissue slices.