Effect ofSecuridaca longepedunculata. (Polygalaceae) Root Extract on Intracellular Calcium Transient in Cultured Rat Skeletal Muscle Cells

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of the Securidaca longepedunculata Fres. (Polygalaceae) lyophilized root aqueous extract on calcium signaling in rat cultured skeletal muscle cells. In Africa, this plant is used to treat snakebites, to calm inflammation, and to cure antibacterial infections. This wide spectrum of pharmacological activities requires multiple studies to identify the different mechanisms of action. The results of the study showed that the lyophilized root aqueous extract (1 mg=ml) increased the resting free calcium level (viewed as the fluorescence ratio). This effect was blocked by ryanodine and nifedipine but not by 2-aminoethoxydiphenylborate (2-APB). It was therefore concluded that the main effect of the SL extract operates through the dihydropyridine (DHP) receptors.