查看文章

K_ATP channels couple the intracellular energy state to membrane excitability and regulate a wide array of biologic activities. K_ATP channels contain a pore-forming inwardly rectifying potassium channel and a sulfonylurea receptor regulatory subunit (SUR1 or SUR2). To clarify the role of K_ATP channels in vascular smooth muscle, we studied Sur2 gene-targeted mice (Sur2^–/–) and found significantly elevated resting blood pressures and sudden death. Using in vivo monitoring, we detected transient, repeated episodes of coronary artery vasospasm in Sur2^–/– mice. Focal narrowings in the coronary arteries were present in Sur2^–/– mice consistent with vascular spasm. We treated Sur2^–/– mice with a calcium channel antagonist and successfully reduced vasospastic episodes.