Transcriptional profiling reveals ductus arteriosus-specific genes that regulate vascular tone

This study identifies subsets of genes that are enriched in the DA that may be used to develop DA-specific drugs. Ion channels that regulate DA tone, including BKCa channels, are promising targets. Specifically, BKCa channel agonists like NS1619 maintain DA patency even in the presence of O2 and may be clinically useful.

Source: Physiological Genomics - July 1, 2014 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: Shelton, E. L., Ector, G., Galindo, C. L., Hooper, C. W., Brown, N., Wilkerson, I., Pfaltzgraff, E. R., Paria, B. C., Cotton, R. B., Stoller, J. Z., Reese, J. Tags: General Interest Source Type: research