To investigate the relationship between intracellular free Ca^2+ concentration ([Ca^2+ ]i ) and calcium-activated chloride (Clca) channels of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) in rats under acute a...To investigate the relationship between intracellular free Ca^2+ concentration ([Ca^2+ ]i ) and calcium-activated chloride (Clca) channels of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) in rats under acute and chronic hypoxic conditions, acute hypoxia-induced contraction was observed in rat pulmonary artery by using routine blood vascular perfusion in vitro. The fluorescence Ca^2+ indicator Fura-2/AM was used to observe [Ca^2+ ]i of rat PASMCs under normal and chronic hypoxic condition. The effect of Clca channels on PASMCs proliferation was assessed by MTT assay. The Clca channel blockers niflumic acid (NFA) and indaryloxyacetic acid (IAA-94) exerted inhibitory effects on acute hypoxia-evoked contractions in the pulmonary artery. Under chronic hypoxic condition, [Ca^2+ ]i was increased. Under normoxic condition, [Ca^2+ If was (123.634-18.98) nmol/ L, and in hypoxic condition, [Ca^2+]i wag (281. 754-16.48) nmol/L (P〈0. 01). Under normoxic condition, [Ca^2+ ]i showed no significant change and no effect on Clca channels was observed (P〉 0. 05). Chronic hypoxia increased [Ca^2+ ]i which opened Clca channels. The NFA and IAA-94 blocked the channels and decreased [Ca^2+ ]i from (281.75± 16.48) nmot/L to (117.66 ±15.36) nmol/L (P〈0.01). MTT assay showed that under chronic hypoxic condition NFA and IAA-94 decreased the value of absorbency (A value) from 0. 459±0. 058 to 0. 224±0. 025 (P〈0. 01). Hypoxia increased [Ca^2+ ]i which opened Cl~ channels and had a positive-feedback in [Ca^2+ ]i. This may play an important role in hypoxic pulmonary hypertension. Under chronic hypoxic condition, Clca channel may play a part in the regulation of proliferation of PASMCs.展开更多
Objective To investigate the relationship between the alteration of intracellular calcium concentration and proliferation in cultured glomerular mesangial cells. Methods Rat mesangial cells were cultured. Intracellula...Objective To investigate the relationship between the alteration of intracellular calcium concentration and proliferation in cultured glomerular mesangial cells. Methods Rat mesangial cells were cultured. Intracellular calcium concentrations were measured by confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy and Fura-3 fluorescence dyeing techniques. Cell growth was measured by MTT assay. Results PDGF-BB increased intracellular calcium concentrations in a dose-dependent manner, and at the same time promote the proliferation of mesangial cells. After preincubation with calcium channel blocker nifedipine or angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor captopril, both the increase of intracellular calcium concentrations and cell proliferations induced by PDGF-BB were inhibited. Tripterigium Wilfordii Glycosides (TMG) significantly inhibited the mesangial cell proliferations, but it had no significant effect on intracellular calcium concentrations. Conclusion There was a positive relationship between the elevation of intracellular calcium concentration and cell proliferation in glomerular mesangial cells, but the increase of intracellular calcium concentrations wasn’t the only way for proliferation.展开更多
Objective:To explore the effects of Iptakalim on intracellular free calcium concentration and on the proliferation of cultured rabbit pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells induced by endothelin-1 (ET-1) in vitro. ...Objective:To explore the effects of Iptakalim on intracellular free calcium concentration and on the proliferation of cultured rabbit pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells induced by endothelin-1 (ET-1) in vitro. Methods:A cell culture model, [^3H]-thymidine([^3H]-TdR) incorporation test and confocal microscope were used to observe proliferation and intracellular free calcium concentration([Ca^2±]) of rabbit PASMC induced by ET-1 in vitro. Results:The value of [^3H]-TdR incorporation in ET-1 group was increased 1.468 times higher than that in control group. Iptakalim at the concentration of 10^-7mol/L, 10^-6mol/L ,10^-5 mol/L lowered [^3H]-TdR incorporation by (19.8 ± 4.6)%, (41.2 ± 9.5)%, (54.7 ± 10.1)%, respectively, compared with the value of the cells treated with ET-1(P〈 0.01); The intracellular fluorescence intensity of PASMC in ET-1 group was increased from 73.70 ± 10.12 to 143.84 ± 28.23, significantly higher than that in control group(P 〈 0.01); whereas with Iptakalim,the fluorescence intensity(FI) was only increased from 74.30 ± 10.20 to 86.03 ± 9.82, significantly lower than that in ET-1 group(P 〈 0.01). Conclusion:Iptakalim inhibited proliferation of PASMC and decreased intracellular free calcium concentration of cultured rabbit PASMC induced by ET-1.展开更多
To explore the effects of total flavonoids of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (TFH) quercetin (Que) and isorhamnetin (Isor) on the intracellular free calcium ([Ca^2+]) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) of spon...To explore the effects of total flavonoids of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (TFH) quercetin (Que) and isorhamnetin (Isor) on the intracellular free calcium ([Ca^2+]) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Metheds: Fluo 3-acetoxymethylester(Fluo-3/AM) was used to observe the effects of TFH (100mg/L) and its essential monomers, namely Que (10^-4mol/L) and Isor (10^-4mol/L) on changes of [Ca^2+]1 in cultured SHR and WKY VSMC (abbr. to Ca-SHR & Ca-WKY) following exposure to high K^+, norepinephrine (NE) and angiotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ), and to compare with the effects of verapamil (Ver). Results: (1) TFH, Que and Isor had inhibitory effects on resting Ca-SHR (P〈0.05), but had no significant effects on Ca-WKY (P〉0.05). (2) High K^+ could increase Ca-SHR more significantly than Ca-WKY (P〈0.05); TFH, Que and Isor could inhibit the elevation of [Ca^2+]1 induced by high K^+ -depolarization, with the effects similar to that of Ver, and the effect on Ca-SHR was more significant than that on Ca-WKY (P〈0.05). (3) NE and Ang Ⅱ could increase Ca-SHR more significantly than Ca-WKY (P〈0.05), TFH, Que and Isor had remarkably inhibitory effect on the elevation of Ca-SHR and Ca-WKY induced by NE or Ang Ⅱ. (4) In the absence of extracellular Ca^2+ , TFH, Que and Isor also had certain inhibitory effect on Ca-SHR and Ca-WKY induced by NE, and the effect on the former was more significant than that on the latter(P〈0.05). Ceaclusiea: TFH, Que and Isor might decrease the levels of [Ca^2+], in VSMCs by blocking both voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDC) and receptoroperated calcium channels (ROC) in physiological or pathological state, which may be one of the important mechanisms of their hypotensive and protective effects on target organs in patients with hypertension.展开更多
Hepatitis B virus X(HBx) protein plays a pivotal role in the development of hepatitis B virus(HBV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma.Although regulation of cytosolic calcium is essential for HBV replication and ...Hepatitis B virus X(HBx) protein plays a pivotal role in the development of hepatitis B virus(HBV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma.Although regulation of cytosolic calcium is essential for HBV replication and is mediated by HBx protein,the mechanism of HBx protein regulating intracellular calcium level remains poorly understood.The present study examined whether HBx protein elevated the intracellular calcium through interacting with storeoperated calcium entry(SOCE) components,Orai1 and stromal interaction molecule 1,and then identified the targets of HBx protein,with an attempt to understand the mechanism of HBx protein upsetting intracellular calcium homeostasis.By employing co-immunoprecipitation and GST-pull-down assay,we found that Orai1 protein interacted with HBx protein,and the C-terminus of Orai1 was implicated in the interaction.Confocal microscopy also revealed that HBx protein could co-localize with full-length Orai1 protein in HEK293 cells.Moreover,live cell calcium imaging exhibited that HBx protein elevated intracellular calcium,possibly by binding to SOCE components.Our results suggest that HBx protein binds to STIM1-Orai1 complexes to positively regulate the activity of plasma membrane store-operated calcium channels.展开更多
It is first reported in the present paper that whole-body irradiation (WBI) with low dose X-rays could increase intracellular calcium ions ([Ca2+]i) and stimulate protein kinase C (PKC) activity of mouse lymphocytes. ...It is first reported in the present paper that whole-body irradiation (WBI) with low dose X-rays could increase intracellular calcium ions ([Ca2+]i) and stimulate protein kinase C (PKC) activity of mouse lymphocytes. Following WBI of male Kunming micc With 75 mGy X-rays at a dose rate of 12.5 mGy/min the mobilization of [Ca2+]i with Con A in CD4+ and CD8+ Cells in the thymus and spleen was potentiated and the amplitude of [Ca2+], mobilization in thymocytes in response to anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody increased with time from 4 to 24 h following low dose radiation. The PKC activity in the homogenate of spleen was markedly stimulated 12 h after WBl with 75 mGy, reaching its peak value at 24-48 h and coming down to lower than normal on day 7. However, the PKC activity in the separated T lymphocytes reached its peak value at 12 h and that in the B lymphocytes reached its peak value on day 4, both coming down to below control on day 7. The implications of this facilitation of signal transduction in T lymphocytes in the mechanism of immunoenhancement after low dose radiation were discussed展开更多
The interphase NIH3T3 cells were vitally fluorescentstained with calcium indicator fluo-3 and Glogi probe C6NBD-ceramide, and then the single cells were examined by laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCFM) for subce...The interphase NIH3T3 cells were vitally fluorescentstained with calcium indicator fluo-3 and Glogi probe C6NBD-ceramide, and then the single cells were examined by laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCFM) for subcellular distributions of Ca2+ and the location of Golgi apparatus. In these cells, the intracellular Ca2+ were found to be highly concentrated in the Golgi apparatus. The changes of distribution of cytosolic high Ca2+ region and the Golgi apparatus coincided with the cell cycle phase.In calcium free medium, when the plasma membrane of the cells which had been loaded with fluo-3/AM were permeated by digitonin, the fluorescence of the Golgi region decreased far less than that of the cytosol. Our results indicated that the Glogi lumen retained significantly high concentration of free calcium.展开更多
Using laser scanning confocal microscopy, we have found that the in cells loaded with fluo-3/AM, highest intracellular Ca(2+) in the perinuclear region is associated with the Golgi apparatus. The spatiotemporal subcel...Using laser scanning confocal microscopy, we have found that the in cells loaded with fluo-3/AM, highest intracellular Ca(2+) in the perinuclear region is associated with the Golgi apparatus. The spatiotemporal subcellu lar distribution of Ca(2+) in living human fibroblasts exposing to calcium-free medium in response to agonists has been investigated. PDGF, which releases Ca(2+) from intracellular stores by inositol(1, 4, 5)-trisphosphate pathway,produced a biphasic transient rise in intracellular calcium.The initial rise was resulted from a direct release of calcium from the Golgi apparatus. Calcium could be also released from and reaccumulated into the Golgi apparatus by the stimulation of thapsigargin, an inhibitor of the Ca(2+) transport ATPase of intracellular calcium store. Permeablizing the plasma membrane by 10 μM digitonin resulted in the calcium release from the Golgi apparatus and depletion of the internal calcium store. These results suggest that the Golgi apparatus plays a role in Ca(2+) regulation in signal transduction.展开更多
To investigate the biobeical effects of terbium (Tb), male mice were intravenously ad ministered with TbCl3 at 10, 25, or 50 mg Tb/kg. Time-course and dose-related changes in organ distributions of Tb were determined ...To investigate the biobeical effects of terbium (Tb), male mice were intravenously ad ministered with TbCl3 at 10, 25, or 50 mg Tb/kg. Time-course and dose-related changes in organ distributions of Tb were determined . More than 95 % of the Tb in blood was in plas ma, and the concentrations decreased rapidly. Contrary to normal pharmacokinetics, Tb con centrations in plasma were higher in the 10 mg/kg group than in the 50 mg/kg group. The concentrations after injection of 25 mg/kg were between 10 and 50 mg/kg injections. Tb was incorporated mainly in liver, lung, and spleen. In all groups more than 80% of Tb adminis tered were found in these three organs. Disappearance of Tb in these organs was very slow.Tb was also found in kidney, heart and other organs. Coincidentally, it was found that the Ca concentration was increased in organs in which Tb was incorporated. After administration of Tb (50 mg/kg) the Ca concentration, compared to the controls, was 70-fold in spleen, 20-fold in lung, and 6-fold in liver. There were highly positive correlations between Tb and Ca concentrations in organs. Excretion of Tb in urine was 0. 15 ~ 0. 3 % and that in feces was 1.7~12. 5 % for up to 7 days. These results indicate that liver, lung, and spleen are the main target organs of Tb administered intravenously, and that the increase in Ca concentrations is one of the important biological effects of Tb in target organs展开更多
BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that voltage-dependent calcium influx, and enhancement of certain calcium-dependent processes in neurons, is related to aging. OBJECTIVE: To observe changes in intracellular calcium (...BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that voltage-dependent calcium influx, and enhancement of certain calcium-dependent processes in neurons, is related to aging. OBJECTIVE: To observe changes in intracellular calcium ([Ca^2+]i) in neurons of aged rats, and to compare with young rats. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: A randomized control experiment of neurophysiology was performed at the Central Laboratory of School of Pharmaceutical Science, China Medical University from June to August 2004. MATERIALS: Ten male, healthy, Wistar rats, 19 months old, were selected for the aged group. Ten male, 3-month-old, Wistar rats were selected for the young control group. Fura-2/AM was provided by the Institute of Pharmaceutical Research of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and the F-2000 fluorospectrophotometer was a product of Hitachi, Japan. METHODS: Fluorescence Fura-2 spectrophotometer was used to measure [Ca^2+]i in acutely dissociated brain cells of aged and young rats. The concentration of extracellular potassium was controlled by adding different volumes of chloridated potassium solution of high concentration. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: [Ca^2+]i in neurons of young and aged rats in the presence of I mmol/L extracellular calcium concentration and 0 mmol/L (resting state), 5, 10, 20, and 40 mmol/L extracellular potassium. Absolute increase of [Ca^2+]i in neurons of young and aged rats when extracellular potassium was 5, 10, 20, 40 mmol/L. RESULTS: In the presence of 1 mmol/L extracellular Ca〉 and 0 mmol/L (resting state), 5, 10, 20, and 40 mmol/L extracellular potassium, [Ca^2+]i in the neurons of aged rats was significantly less than that in young rats (P 〈 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in absolute [Ca^2+]i increase induced by different concentrations of KCI between the aged and the young rats (P 〉 0.05). CONCLUSION: The overload of [Ca^2+]i in neurons of aged rats is greater than that of young rats under the same circumstances.展开更多
Objective To investigate the effect of oleanolic acid (OA) on apoptosis,correlation between apoptosis and intracellular calcium,and its mechanism in human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549. Methods Human lung adenoca...Objective To investigate the effect of oleanolic acid (OA) on apoptosis,correlation between apoptosis and intracellular calcium,and its mechanism in human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549. Methods Human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells were incubated in vitro and assigned with OA concentrations of 0,10,20 and 40μg/mL. The apoptosis status of A549 cell line was detected with Annexin V-FITC/PI by flow cytometry (FCM); fluorescence intensity (FI) of A549 cells was assessed and the level of intracellular calcium was calculated at 24 hour of OA intervention. The relation between apoptosis and calcium FI was illustrated by curve fitting. Results FCM showed that 10,20 and 40μg/mL of OA could induce A549 cell apoptosis,which followed a concentration-effect pattern; 24-hour intervention with 20μg/mL and 40μg/mL OA showed increased A549 cell apoptosis,and was significantly different from that with 0μg/mL OA (P<0.01). The FI of intracellular calcium concentration in 10,20 and 40μg/mL OA groups was significantly higher than that in 0μg/mL group after 24 hours’ intervention,and the FI showed a trend of increase with increased OA concentration (P<0.01). Curve fitting showed a significant correlation between apoptosis rate and intracellular calcium concentration in A549 cells (r=0.981,P<0.01). Regression equation was Y=0.508X-1.627. Conclusion OA plays a role in inducing apoptosis of human lung adenocarcinoma cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The OA-induced apoptosis is responsible for intracellular calcium overload of the tumor.展开更多
By using Fura-2/AM, the effects of magnesium (Mg 2+) on the glutamate-induced increase of intracellular free calcium ([Ca 2+]i) in the cultured hippocampal neurons and the features were investigated by integrated ph...By using Fura-2/AM, the effects of magnesium (Mg 2+) on the glutamate-induced increase of intracellular free calcium ([Ca 2+]i) in the cultured hippocampal neurons and the features were investigated by integrated photoelectric detecting system. The experiments were designed to three groups (The drug was spit to the cells for 20 s): Group A receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate; Group B receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate and1×10 —5 mol/L Mg 2+ simultaneously; Group C receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate again after [Ca 2+]i in group B back to the baseline. The results showed that in group A, [Ca 2+]i was obviously increased. In group B, the changes in [Ca 2+]i and the peak value were significantly decreased. Moreover, the elevation of Phase 1 was slowed down and Phase 2 was shortened to some extent, and the plateau phase between them was relatively prolonged. In group C, calcium oscillation similar to that in group A occurred, but both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 were shortened and the △[Ca 2+]i was slightly decreased. It was suggested that Mg 2+ could quickly inhibit the rise of [Ca 2+]i induced by glutamate in the cultured hippocampal neurons in rats.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the involvement of Ca^(2+)in dengue virus(DENV)-infected human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)and the disruption of endothelial integrity.Methods:HUVECs were infected with DENV-2 in t...Objective:To investigate the involvement of Ca^(2+)in dengue virus(DENV)-infected human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)and the disruption of endothelial integrity.Methods:HUVECs were infected with DENV-2 in the presence of intracellular Ca^(2+)or endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+)chelators.Virus infectivity was measured by focus-forming assay and quantitative RT-PCR.Intracellular Ca^(2+)was measured using Fluo-4-AM dye.VE-cadherin and focal adhesion kinase(FAK)expressions were investigated by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting assays,respectively.Results:DENV infection increased intracellular cytosolic Ca^(2+)levels and caused disassembly of the adherens junction protein,VEcadherin as evidenced by decreased VE-cadherin expression at the periphery of DENV-2 infected HUVECs.Depletion of intracellular Ca^(2+)stores,particularly those of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+),significantly decreased DENV yield in HUVECs.Decreased virus yield following the depletion of intracellular Ca^(2+)was caused by the inhibition of viral entry into HUVECs and not the inhibition of viral binding or attachment.DENV-2 infection also resulted in Ca^(2+)-dependent activation of FAK.Conclusions:Intracellular Ca^(2+)is required for the early phases of DENV infection in endothelial cells.Increased cytosolic Ca^(2+)levels in endothelial cells during DENV infection activated FAK,disrupted adherens junctions and compromised barrier integrity.Thus,Ca^(2+)plays an important role in DENV infection in endothelial cells.展开更多
By using Ca2+ -sensitive fluorescent probe, Fura-2 , the effects of endothelial cell-conditioned medium and hypoxia on intracellular free calcium ( [Ca2+]i) in cultured pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) were...By using Ca2+ -sensitive fluorescent probe, Fura-2 , the effects of endothelial cell-conditioned medium and hypoxia on intracellular free calcium ( [Ca2+]i) in cultured pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) were studied. Normoxic porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cell-conditioned medium (NPAECCM) obviously elevated [Ca2+]i in PASMC,whereas the hypoxic porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cell conditioned medium (HPAECCM)significantly elevated [Ca2+]i in PASMC much more than NPAECCM. Both the effects of NPAECCM and HPAECCM were dependent on the cultured endothelial cell extracellular calcium concentrations, ranged from 1.8 mmol/L to 2. 4 mmol/L.Meanwhile, hypoxia directly increased, which was partially inhibited by verapamil,[Ca2+]i in PASMC through Ca2+ influx pathway.The data suggest that the augmented regulation of endothelial cell on PASMC via Ca2+ second messenger system and the hypoxia-induced Ca2+ influx into PASMC,particularly the former, may be components of mechanisms underlying hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction and chronic pulmonary hypertension.展开更多
Corticotropin-releasing factor(CRF), which activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis under stress, also has proinflammatory peripheral effects possibly through mast cells. The purpose of this study was to inve...Corticotropin-releasing factor(CRF), which activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis under stress, also has proinflammatory peripheral effects possibly through mast cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of urocortin (UCN), a 40-amino-acid CRF family peptide, on degranulation and intracellular calcium of rat lung mast cells. The activation and degranulation of mast cells were observed by Toluidine blue staining and transmission electron microscope. The intracellular calcium was investigated using confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry. The results indicated that all the three different concentrations of UCN(0.1, 1 and 10 mu M) significantly induced the activation and degranulation of rat lung mast cells in vitro. This effect was markedly blocked by selective CRF receptor 1(CRF-R1) antagonist antalarmin, but not by specific CRF receptor 2(CRF-R2) antagonist antisauvagine-30(anti-Svg-30). The results also showed that UCN caused a rapid peak increase inCa2+(i) at point of 300s after UCN treatment, followed by a decrease to a sustained plateau phase. The peak increase inCa2+(i) induced by UCN was significantly inhibited by antalarmin, but not by anti-Svg-30. This effect of UCN onCa2+(i) in rat lung mast cells was also found by flow cytometry. Regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between mast cells degranulation extent and the maximum value ofCa2+(i)(P < 0.01). Taken together, our present study suggested that UCN induced the increase of Ca2+(i) and degranulation of rat lung mast cells through CRF-R1. These findings may have implications for the pathophysiology of allergic and inflammatory lung disorders such as asthma, which is closely associated with mast cell activation and degranulation. Copyright (c) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.展开更多
Based on the model of the two calcium stores developed by Goldbeter,the influence of external magneticfield on the calcium concentration has been discussed.We believe that the cell membrane is a major site of interact...Based on the model of the two calcium stores developed by Goldbeter,the influence of external magneticfield on the calcium concentration has been discussed.We believe that the cell membrane is a major site of interactionfor extremely-low-frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields,and the permeability of ions can be changed with the changingelectromagnetic fields.It is shown that magnetic field initiates intracellular calcium oscillation with a threshold in fluxdensity,and that the calcium oscillations do not occur if the density of magnetic field is below the threshold.Theresults of theoretical calculation are consistent with that of the experiment.The intracellular free calcium concentrationsof different cells exposed to the same magnetic fields are different from each other.It is indicated that the differentbehaviors such as oscillation,rise and invariability of calcium concentration are associated with the sort of cells.展开更多
Background: Dialysis centres around the world use different concentrations of calcium in dialysate solution,ranging from 1. 25 to 1. 75 mmol / L. However,a dialysate concentration of 1. 25 mmol / L is recommended. [1]...Background: Dialysis centres around the world use different concentrations of calcium in dialysate solution,ranging from 1. 25 to 1. 75 mmol / L. However,a dialysate concentration of 1. 25 mmol / L is recommended. [1] Higher or lower dialysate calcium concentrations are indicated in patients,depending on their co-morbid factors. We explored the effects of using a calcium dialysate solution of 1. 50 mmol / L compared to a 1. 75 mmol / L calcium dialysate solution on the Blood Pressure (BP) ,serum concentrations of Calcium,Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Aldosterone in chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients. Method: 42 patients were enrolled in the study. First a 1. 50 mmol / L low calcium dialysate solution (LCDS) was used for 4 hour dialysis,and for the next session of HD,a 1. 75 mmol / L (NCDS) normal calcium dialysate solution was used. Blood pressure was measured at 5 intervals of time: pre HD,at 60,120,180 and 240 minutes into the HD session. Pre and post HD blood samples were taken for serum calcium,PTH and Aldosterone levels. Results: All 42 patients completed the study. With LCDS,the post HD serum calcium levels were (2. 51 ± 0. 14) mmol / L,compared to (2. 85 ± 0. 17) mmol / L for NCDS (P < 0. 01) . A post HD serum PTH level of (80. 6 ± 144. 93) pg / ml was observed when using LCDS,whereas a (52. 25 ± 115. 89) pg / ml serum PTH level was noted with NCDS (P < 0. 01) . As for aldosterone,a post HD value of (161. 77 ± 80. 42) ng / L was obtained with LCDS and (165. 50 ± 78. 84) ng / L with NCDS (P < 0. 01) . The mean post HD systolic blood pressure was (129. 17 ± 25. 42) mmHg with LCDS dialysis compared to (132. 50 ± 20. 32) mmHg for NCDS dialysis (P < 0. 01) and the diastolic BP values observed were (75. 10 ±10. 34) mmHg and (78. 26 ±11. 63) mm Hg(P <0. 01) ,respectively. Conclusion: LCDS can more effectively improve hypercalcemic status in dialysis patients than NCDS. Using LCDS stimulates the secretion of PTH more than when using NCDS. LCDS decreases aldosterone levels more than NCDS. Patients undergoing dialysis with LCDS have a lower post dialysis BP compared to those using NCDS. LCDS has a greater effect in decreasing both the post systolic and diastolic blood pressure than NCDS. Serum calcium,PTH and aldosterone levels have a greater decreasing effect on BP in LCDS than NCDS. Dialysate calcium profiling might be used as a means of therapy to control hypercalcemia, especially in patients who are hemodynamically stable.展开更多
文摘To investigate the relationship between intracellular free Ca^2+ concentration ([Ca^2+ ]i ) and calcium-activated chloride (Clca) channels of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) in rats under acute and chronic hypoxic conditions, acute hypoxia-induced contraction was observed in rat pulmonary artery by using routine blood vascular perfusion in vitro. The fluorescence Ca^2+ indicator Fura-2/AM was used to observe [Ca^2+ ]i of rat PASMCs under normal and chronic hypoxic condition. The effect of Clca channels on PASMCs proliferation was assessed by MTT assay. The Clca channel blockers niflumic acid (NFA) and indaryloxyacetic acid (IAA-94) exerted inhibitory effects on acute hypoxia-evoked contractions in the pulmonary artery. Under chronic hypoxic condition, [Ca^2+ ]i was increased. Under normoxic condition, [Ca^2+ If was (123.634-18.98) nmol/ L, and in hypoxic condition, [Ca^2+]i wag (281. 754-16.48) nmol/L (P〈0. 01). Under normoxic condition, [Ca^2+ ]i showed no significant change and no effect on Clca channels was observed (P〉 0. 05). Chronic hypoxia increased [Ca^2+ ]i which opened Clca channels. The NFA and IAA-94 blocked the channels and decreased [Ca^2+ ]i from (281.75± 16.48) nmot/L to (117.66 ±15.36) nmol/L (P〈0.01). MTT assay showed that under chronic hypoxic condition NFA and IAA-94 decreased the value of absorbency (A value) from 0. 459±0. 058 to 0. 224±0. 025 (P〈0. 01). Hypoxia increased [Ca^2+ ]i which opened Cl~ channels and had a positive-feedback in [Ca^2+ ]i. This may play an important role in hypoxic pulmonary hypertension. Under chronic hypoxic condition, Clca channel may play a part in the regulation of proliferation of PASMCs.
文摘Objective To investigate the relationship between the alteration of intracellular calcium concentration and proliferation in cultured glomerular mesangial cells. Methods Rat mesangial cells were cultured. Intracellular calcium concentrations were measured by confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy and Fura-3 fluorescence dyeing techniques. Cell growth was measured by MTT assay. Results PDGF-BB increased intracellular calcium concentrations in a dose-dependent manner, and at the same time promote the proliferation of mesangial cells. After preincubation with calcium channel blocker nifedipine or angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor captopril, both the increase of intracellular calcium concentrations and cell proliferations induced by PDGF-BB were inhibited. Tripterigium Wilfordii Glycosides (TMG) significantly inhibited the mesangial cell proliferations, but it had no significant effect on intracellular calcium concentrations. Conclusion There was a positive relationship between the elevation of intracellular calcium concentration and cell proliferation in glomerular mesangial cells, but the increase of intracellular calcium concentrations wasn’t the only way for proliferation.
基金This research was supported by the Innovation Fund of Nanjing Medical University(CX2003002)Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(BK2006246)+1 种基金Science Development Project of Jiangsu Science and Technology Department(BJ200051)and College Science Research Project of Jiangsu Education Department(OOKJBS20009).
文摘Objective:To explore the effects of Iptakalim on intracellular free calcium concentration and on the proliferation of cultured rabbit pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells induced by endothelin-1 (ET-1) in vitro. Methods:A cell culture model, [^3H]-thymidine([^3H]-TdR) incorporation test and confocal microscope were used to observe proliferation and intracellular free calcium concentration([Ca^2±]) of rabbit PASMC induced by ET-1 in vitro. Results:The value of [^3H]-TdR incorporation in ET-1 group was increased 1.468 times higher than that in control group. Iptakalim at the concentration of 10^-7mol/L, 10^-6mol/L ,10^-5 mol/L lowered [^3H]-TdR incorporation by (19.8 ± 4.6)%, (41.2 ± 9.5)%, (54.7 ± 10.1)%, respectively, compared with the value of the cells treated with ET-1(P〈 0.01); The intracellular fluorescence intensity of PASMC in ET-1 group was increased from 73.70 ± 10.12 to 143.84 ± 28.23, significantly higher than that in control group(P 〈 0.01); whereas with Iptakalim,the fluorescence intensity(FI) was only increased from 74.30 ± 10.20 to 86.03 ± 9.82, significantly lower than that in ET-1 group(P 〈 0.01). Conclusion:Iptakalim inhibited proliferation of PASMC and decreased intracellular free calcium concentration of cultured rabbit PASMC induced by ET-1.
基金Supported by One-hundred-people Plan of Hygiene Systemin Shanghai (No .990122)
文摘To explore the effects of total flavonoids of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (TFH) quercetin (Que) and isorhamnetin (Isor) on the intracellular free calcium ([Ca^2+]) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Metheds: Fluo 3-acetoxymethylester(Fluo-3/AM) was used to observe the effects of TFH (100mg/L) and its essential monomers, namely Que (10^-4mol/L) and Isor (10^-4mol/L) on changes of [Ca^2+]1 in cultured SHR and WKY VSMC (abbr. to Ca-SHR & Ca-WKY) following exposure to high K^+, norepinephrine (NE) and angiotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ), and to compare with the effects of verapamil (Ver). Results: (1) TFH, Que and Isor had inhibitory effects on resting Ca-SHR (P〈0.05), but had no significant effects on Ca-WKY (P〉0.05). (2) High K^+ could increase Ca-SHR more significantly than Ca-WKY (P〈0.05); TFH, Que and Isor could inhibit the elevation of [Ca^2+]1 induced by high K^+ -depolarization, with the effects similar to that of Ver, and the effect on Ca-SHR was more significant than that on Ca-WKY (P〈0.05). (3) NE and Ang Ⅱ could increase Ca-SHR more significantly than Ca-WKY (P〈0.05), TFH, Que and Isor had remarkably inhibitory effect on the elevation of Ca-SHR and Ca-WKY induced by NE or Ang Ⅱ. (4) In the absence of extracellular Ca^2+ , TFH, Que and Isor also had certain inhibitory effect on Ca-SHR and Ca-WKY induced by NE, and the effect on the former was more significant than that on the latter(P〈0.05). Ceaclusiea: TFH, Que and Isor might decrease the levels of [Ca^2+], in VSMCs by blocking both voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDC) and receptoroperated calcium channels (ROC) in physiological or pathological state, which may be one of the important mechanisms of their hypotensive and protective effects on target organs in patients with hypertension.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81001063)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.2015QN150)
文摘Hepatitis B virus X(HBx) protein plays a pivotal role in the development of hepatitis B virus(HBV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma.Although regulation of cytosolic calcium is essential for HBV replication and is mediated by HBx protein,the mechanism of HBx protein regulating intracellular calcium level remains poorly understood.The present study examined whether HBx protein elevated the intracellular calcium through interacting with storeoperated calcium entry(SOCE) components,Orai1 and stromal interaction molecule 1,and then identified the targets of HBx protein,with an attempt to understand the mechanism of HBx protein upsetting intracellular calcium homeostasis.By employing co-immunoprecipitation and GST-pull-down assay,we found that Orai1 protein interacted with HBx protein,and the C-terminus of Orai1 was implicated in the interaction.Confocal microscopy also revealed that HBx protein could co-localize with full-length Orai1 protein in HEK293 cells.Moreover,live cell calcium imaging exhibited that HBx protein elevated intracellular calcium,possibly by binding to SOCE components.Our results suggest that HBx protein binds to STIM1-Orai1 complexes to positively regulate the activity of plasma membrane store-operated calcium channels.
文摘It is first reported in the present paper that whole-body irradiation (WBI) with low dose X-rays could increase intracellular calcium ions ([Ca2+]i) and stimulate protein kinase C (PKC) activity of mouse lymphocytes. Following WBI of male Kunming micc With 75 mGy X-rays at a dose rate of 12.5 mGy/min the mobilization of [Ca2+]i with Con A in CD4+ and CD8+ Cells in the thymus and spleen was potentiated and the amplitude of [Ca2+], mobilization in thymocytes in response to anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody increased with time from 4 to 24 h following low dose radiation. The PKC activity in the homogenate of spleen was markedly stimulated 12 h after WBl with 75 mGy, reaching its peak value at 24-48 h and coming down to lower than normal on day 7. However, the PKC activity in the separated T lymphocytes reached its peak value at 12 h and that in the B lymphocytes reached its peak value on day 4, both coming down to below control on day 7. The implications of this facilitation of signal transduction in T lymphocytes in the mechanism of immunoenhancement after low dose radiation were discussed
文摘The interphase NIH3T3 cells were vitally fluorescentstained with calcium indicator fluo-3 and Glogi probe C6NBD-ceramide, and then the single cells were examined by laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCFM) for subcellular distributions of Ca2+ and the location of Golgi apparatus. In these cells, the intracellular Ca2+ were found to be highly concentrated in the Golgi apparatus. The changes of distribution of cytosolic high Ca2+ region and the Golgi apparatus coincided with the cell cycle phase.In calcium free medium, when the plasma membrane of the cells which had been loaded with fluo-3/AM were permeated by digitonin, the fluorescence of the Golgi region decreased far less than that of the cytosol. Our results indicated that the Glogi lumen retained significantly high concentration of free calcium.
文摘Using laser scanning confocal microscopy, we have found that the in cells loaded with fluo-3/AM, highest intracellular Ca(2+) in the perinuclear region is associated with the Golgi apparatus. The spatiotemporal subcellu lar distribution of Ca(2+) in living human fibroblasts exposing to calcium-free medium in response to agonists has been investigated. PDGF, which releases Ca(2+) from intracellular stores by inositol(1, 4, 5)-trisphosphate pathway,produced a biphasic transient rise in intracellular calcium.The initial rise was resulted from a direct release of calcium from the Golgi apparatus. Calcium could be also released from and reaccumulated into the Golgi apparatus by the stimulation of thapsigargin, an inhibitor of the Ca(2+) transport ATPase of intracellular calcium store. Permeablizing the plasma membrane by 10 μM digitonin resulted in the calcium release from the Golgi apparatus and depletion of the internal calcium store. These results suggest that the Golgi apparatus plays a role in Ca(2+) regulation in signal transduction.
文摘To investigate the biobeical effects of terbium (Tb), male mice were intravenously ad ministered with TbCl3 at 10, 25, or 50 mg Tb/kg. Time-course and dose-related changes in organ distributions of Tb were determined . More than 95 % of the Tb in blood was in plas ma, and the concentrations decreased rapidly. Contrary to normal pharmacokinetics, Tb con centrations in plasma were higher in the 10 mg/kg group than in the 50 mg/kg group. The concentrations after injection of 25 mg/kg were between 10 and 50 mg/kg injections. Tb was incorporated mainly in liver, lung, and spleen. In all groups more than 80% of Tb adminis tered were found in these three organs. Disappearance of Tb in these organs was very slow.Tb was also found in kidney, heart and other organs. Coincidentally, it was found that the Ca concentration was increased in organs in which Tb was incorporated. After administration of Tb (50 mg/kg) the Ca concentration, compared to the controls, was 70-fold in spleen, 20-fold in lung, and 6-fold in liver. There were highly positive correlations between Tb and Ca concentrations in organs. Excretion of Tb in urine was 0. 15 ~ 0. 3 % and that in feces was 1.7~12. 5 % for up to 7 days. These results indicate that liver, lung, and spleen are the main target organs of Tb administered intravenously, and that the increase in Ca concentrations is one of the important biological effects of Tb in target organs
文摘BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that voltage-dependent calcium influx, and enhancement of certain calcium-dependent processes in neurons, is related to aging. OBJECTIVE: To observe changes in intracellular calcium ([Ca^2+]i) in neurons of aged rats, and to compare with young rats. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: A randomized control experiment of neurophysiology was performed at the Central Laboratory of School of Pharmaceutical Science, China Medical University from June to August 2004. MATERIALS: Ten male, healthy, Wistar rats, 19 months old, were selected for the aged group. Ten male, 3-month-old, Wistar rats were selected for the young control group. Fura-2/AM was provided by the Institute of Pharmaceutical Research of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and the F-2000 fluorospectrophotometer was a product of Hitachi, Japan. METHODS: Fluorescence Fura-2 spectrophotometer was used to measure [Ca^2+]i in acutely dissociated brain cells of aged and young rats. The concentration of extracellular potassium was controlled by adding different volumes of chloridated potassium solution of high concentration. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: [Ca^2+]i in neurons of young and aged rats in the presence of I mmol/L extracellular calcium concentration and 0 mmol/L (resting state), 5, 10, 20, and 40 mmol/L extracellular potassium. Absolute increase of [Ca^2+]i in neurons of young and aged rats when extracellular potassium was 5, 10, 20, 40 mmol/L. RESULTS: In the presence of 1 mmol/L extracellular Ca〉 and 0 mmol/L (resting state), 5, 10, 20, and 40 mmol/L extracellular potassium, [Ca^2+]i in the neurons of aged rats was significantly less than that in young rats (P 〈 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in absolute [Ca^2+]i increase induced by different concentrations of KCI between the aged and the young rats (P 〉 0.05). CONCLUSION: The overload of [Ca^2+]i in neurons of aged rats is greater than that of young rats under the same circumstances.
文摘Objective To investigate the effect of oleanolic acid (OA) on apoptosis,correlation between apoptosis and intracellular calcium,and its mechanism in human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549. Methods Human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells were incubated in vitro and assigned with OA concentrations of 0,10,20 and 40μg/mL. The apoptosis status of A549 cell line was detected with Annexin V-FITC/PI by flow cytometry (FCM); fluorescence intensity (FI) of A549 cells was assessed and the level of intracellular calcium was calculated at 24 hour of OA intervention. The relation between apoptosis and calcium FI was illustrated by curve fitting. Results FCM showed that 10,20 and 40μg/mL of OA could induce A549 cell apoptosis,which followed a concentration-effect pattern; 24-hour intervention with 20μg/mL and 40μg/mL OA showed increased A549 cell apoptosis,and was significantly different from that with 0μg/mL OA (P<0.01). The FI of intracellular calcium concentration in 10,20 and 40μg/mL OA groups was significantly higher than that in 0μg/mL group after 24 hours’ intervention,and the FI showed a trend of increase with increased OA concentration (P<0.01). Curve fitting showed a significant correlation between apoptosis rate and intracellular calcium concentration in A549 cells (r=0.981,P<0.01). Regression equation was Y=0.508X-1.627. Conclusion OA plays a role in inducing apoptosis of human lung adenocarcinoma cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The OA-induced apoptosis is responsible for intracellular calcium overload of the tumor.
文摘By using Fura-2/AM, the effects of magnesium (Mg 2+) on the glutamate-induced increase of intracellular free calcium ([Ca 2+]i) in the cultured hippocampal neurons and the features were investigated by integrated photoelectric detecting system. The experiments were designed to three groups (The drug was spit to the cells for 20 s): Group A receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate; Group B receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate and1×10 —5 mol/L Mg 2+ simultaneously; Group C receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate again after [Ca 2+]i in group B back to the baseline. The results showed that in group A, [Ca 2+]i was obviously increased. In group B, the changes in [Ca 2+]i and the peak value were significantly decreased. Moreover, the elevation of Phase 1 was slowed down and Phase 2 was shortened to some extent, and the plateau phase between them was relatively prolonged. In group C, calcium oscillation similar to that in group A occurred, but both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 were shortened and the △[Ca 2+]i was slightly decreased. It was suggested that Mg 2+ could quickly inhibit the rise of [Ca 2+]i induced by glutamate in the cultured hippocampal neurons in rats.
基金funding from the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia via the Higher Institution Centre of Excellence(HICo E)program(MO002-2019)Development of Research Institute for Excellent Enterprises(ATC+)Project,Republic of Korea(IF001-2021)
文摘Objective:To investigate the involvement of Ca^(2+)in dengue virus(DENV)-infected human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)and the disruption of endothelial integrity.Methods:HUVECs were infected with DENV-2 in the presence of intracellular Ca^(2+)or endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+)chelators.Virus infectivity was measured by focus-forming assay and quantitative RT-PCR.Intracellular Ca^(2+)was measured using Fluo-4-AM dye.VE-cadherin and focal adhesion kinase(FAK)expressions were investigated by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting assays,respectively.Results:DENV infection increased intracellular cytosolic Ca^(2+)levels and caused disassembly of the adherens junction protein,VEcadherin as evidenced by decreased VE-cadherin expression at the periphery of DENV-2 infected HUVECs.Depletion of intracellular Ca^(2+)stores,particularly those of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+),significantly decreased DENV yield in HUVECs.Decreased virus yield following the depletion of intracellular Ca^(2+)was caused by the inhibition of viral entry into HUVECs and not the inhibition of viral binding or attachment.DENV-2 infection also resulted in Ca^(2+)-dependent activation of FAK.Conclusions:Intracellular Ca^(2+)is required for the early phases of DENV infection in endothelial cells.Increased cytosolic Ca^(2+)levels in endothelial cells during DENV infection activated FAK,disrupted adherens junctions and compromised barrier integrity.Thus,Ca^(2+)plays an important role in DENV infection in endothelial cells.
文摘By using Ca2+ -sensitive fluorescent probe, Fura-2 , the effects of endothelial cell-conditioned medium and hypoxia on intracellular free calcium ( [Ca2+]i) in cultured pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) were studied. Normoxic porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cell-conditioned medium (NPAECCM) obviously elevated [Ca2+]i in PASMC,whereas the hypoxic porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cell conditioned medium (HPAECCM)significantly elevated [Ca2+]i in PASMC much more than NPAECCM. Both the effects of NPAECCM and HPAECCM were dependent on the cultured endothelial cell extracellular calcium concentrations, ranged from 1.8 mmol/L to 2. 4 mmol/L.Meanwhile, hypoxia directly increased, which was partially inhibited by verapamil,[Ca2+]i in PASMC through Ca2+ influx pathway.The data suggest that the augmented regulation of endothelial cell on PASMC via Ca2+ second messenger system and the hypoxia-induced Ca2+ influx into PASMC,particularly the former, may be components of mechanisms underlying hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction and chronic pulmonary hypertension.
文摘Corticotropin-releasing factor(CRF), which activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis under stress, also has proinflammatory peripheral effects possibly through mast cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of urocortin (UCN), a 40-amino-acid CRF family peptide, on degranulation and intracellular calcium of rat lung mast cells. The activation and degranulation of mast cells were observed by Toluidine blue staining and transmission electron microscope. The intracellular calcium was investigated using confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry. The results indicated that all the three different concentrations of UCN(0.1, 1 and 10 mu M) significantly induced the activation and degranulation of rat lung mast cells in vitro. This effect was markedly blocked by selective CRF receptor 1(CRF-R1) antagonist antalarmin, but not by specific CRF receptor 2(CRF-R2) antagonist antisauvagine-30(anti-Svg-30). The results also showed that UCN caused a rapid peak increase inCa2+(i) at point of 300s after UCN treatment, followed by a decrease to a sustained plateau phase. The peak increase inCa2+(i) induced by UCN was significantly inhibited by antalarmin, but not by anti-Svg-30. This effect of UCN onCa2+(i) in rat lung mast cells was also found by flow cytometry. Regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between mast cells degranulation extent and the maximum value ofCa2+(i)(P < 0.01). Taken together, our present study suggested that UCN induced the increase of Ca2+(i) and degranulation of rat lung mast cells through CRF-R1. These findings may have implications for the pathophysiology of allergic and inflammatory lung disorders such as asthma, which is closely associated with mast cell activation and degranulation. Copyright (c) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of Foundation under Grant No.C2007000026the Research Fond for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education under Grant No.20060080001
文摘Based on the model of the two calcium stores developed by Goldbeter,the influence of external magneticfield on the calcium concentration has been discussed.We believe that the cell membrane is a major site of interactionfor extremely-low-frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields,and the permeability of ions can be changed with the changingelectromagnetic fields.It is shown that magnetic field initiates intracellular calcium oscillation with a threshold in fluxdensity,and that the calcium oscillations do not occur if the density of magnetic field is below the threshold.Theresults of theoretical calculation are consistent with that of the experiment.The intracellular free calcium concentrationsof different cells exposed to the same magnetic fields are different from each other.It is indicated that the differentbehaviors such as oscillation,rise and invariability of calcium concentration are associated with the sort of cells.
文摘Background: Dialysis centres around the world use different concentrations of calcium in dialysate solution,ranging from 1. 25 to 1. 75 mmol / L. However,a dialysate concentration of 1. 25 mmol / L is recommended. [1] Higher or lower dialysate calcium concentrations are indicated in patients,depending on their co-morbid factors. We explored the effects of using a calcium dialysate solution of 1. 50 mmol / L compared to a 1. 75 mmol / L calcium dialysate solution on the Blood Pressure (BP) ,serum concentrations of Calcium,Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Aldosterone in chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients. Method: 42 patients were enrolled in the study. First a 1. 50 mmol / L low calcium dialysate solution (LCDS) was used for 4 hour dialysis,and for the next session of HD,a 1. 75 mmol / L (NCDS) normal calcium dialysate solution was used. Blood pressure was measured at 5 intervals of time: pre HD,at 60,120,180 and 240 minutes into the HD session. Pre and post HD blood samples were taken for serum calcium,PTH and Aldosterone levels. Results: All 42 patients completed the study. With LCDS,the post HD serum calcium levels were (2. 51 ± 0. 14) mmol / L,compared to (2. 85 ± 0. 17) mmol / L for NCDS (P < 0. 01) . A post HD serum PTH level of (80. 6 ± 144. 93) pg / ml was observed when using LCDS,whereas a (52. 25 ± 115. 89) pg / ml serum PTH level was noted with NCDS (P < 0. 01) . As for aldosterone,a post HD value of (161. 77 ± 80. 42) ng / L was obtained with LCDS and (165. 50 ± 78. 84) ng / L with NCDS (P < 0. 01) . The mean post HD systolic blood pressure was (129. 17 ± 25. 42) mmHg with LCDS dialysis compared to (132. 50 ± 20. 32) mmHg for NCDS dialysis (P < 0. 01) and the diastolic BP values observed were (75. 10 ±10. 34) mmHg and (78. 26 ±11. 63) mm Hg(P <0. 01) ,respectively. Conclusion: LCDS can more effectively improve hypercalcemic status in dialysis patients than NCDS. Using LCDS stimulates the secretion of PTH more than when using NCDS. LCDS decreases aldosterone levels more than NCDS. Patients undergoing dialysis with LCDS have a lower post dialysis BP compared to those using NCDS. LCDS has a greater effect in decreasing both the post systolic and diastolic blood pressure than NCDS. Serum calcium,PTH and aldosterone levels have a greater decreasing effect on BP in LCDS than NCDS. Dialysate calcium profiling might be used as a means of therapy to control hypercalcemia, especially in patients who are hemodynamically stable.