In endothelial cell, ion channels such as agonist-activated nonselective Ca(2+)-permeable cation channels, cyclic nucleotide-activated nonselective cation channels, and store-operated Ca(2+) channels or capacitative Ca(2+) entry are controlled by intracellular Ca(2+) signals. Some of the channels are expressed by trp gene family. Ca(2+) entry is also controlled by large-conductance Ca(2+)-dependent BK(Ca) channels (slo), inwardly rectifying K(+) channels, Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channel and volume-regulated anion channel (VRAC). VRAC channels can also transport organic osmolytes and amino acid.

Ion Channels and Their Functional Role in Vascular Endothelium References