PURPOSE To test whether prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is generated by cultured nonpigmented ciliary epithelial (NPE) cells treated with the phorbol ester, phorbol dibutyrate (PDBu), an activator of protein kinase C. In addition, the authors tested whether indomethacin, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, influences the stimulation of active sodium-potassium transport observed in PDBu-treated cells. METHODS...

Nicorandil is an antianginal agent with nitrate-like and ATP-sensitive potassium channel activator properties. After activation of potassium channels, potassium ions are expelled out of the cells, which lead to membrane hyperpolarization, closure of voltage-gated calcium channels, and finally vasodilation. We present a uremic case suffering from repeated junctional bradycardia, especially befor...

It is well known that sodium reabsorption and aldosterone play important roles in potassium secretion by the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron. Sodium- and aldosterone-independent mechanisms also exist. This review focuses on some recent studies that provide novel insights into the sodium- and aldosterone-independent potassium secretion by the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron. In additio...