ABSTRACT
Edwards et al. (1998) hypothesized that the endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) is potassium released by the endothelial cells as a consequence of their hyperpolarization when stimulated by endothelium-dependent vasodilators. A recurrent question is to know whether enough potassium is released to cause hyperpolarization of the adjacent smooth muscle cells. Potassium current was measured by the patch-clamp technique during the application of bradykinin to cultured endothelial cells derived from the porcine coronary artery to determine the amount of released potassium.
