Bretylium or 6-OHDA-resistant, action potential-evoked Ca2+ transients in varicosities of the mouse vas deferens

Action potential-evoked calcium transients in varicosities in mouse vas deferens were monitored using laser scanning confocal microscopy. Their significance was examined by comparison with excitatory junction potentials (EJPs) and neurogenic contractions, both indirect measurements of transmitter release. Bretylium abolished EJPs, as well as the ATP and NA-mediated phases of contraction. However, bretylium revealed a prominent late component of contraction that was atropine-sensitive. Bretylium abolished calcium transients in 21%, enhanced in 16% and had no effect in 63% of varicosities examined. Pre-treatment with 6-OHDA reduced NA levels to below detectable levels but many strings of varicosities still responded to nerve impulses with 'normal' calcium transients. Varicosities in which calcium transients were abolished by these agents were sympathetic. The identity of those varicosities in which calcium transients were resistant to bretylium (sympathetic but no uptake-1 sites, parasympathetic, sensory) remains to be established.