Ca2+-activated K+ channels involved in duodenal dismotility induced by ethanol

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of K+ channels in duodenal dismotility induced by ethanol in vitro. The amplitude of spontaneous contractions was reduced by ethanol in longitudinal and circular muscle, while frequency did not change. Charybdotoxin antagonized ethanol-induced inhibition of the amplitude of spontaneous contractions. Ethanol decreased ACh-induced contractions and this effect was cancelled out by charybdotoxin. Ca2+-activated K+ channels may be involved in duodenal dismotility induced by ethanol. © The Author 2007. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Medical Council on Alcohol.