[Effects of tamoxifen on the voltage-dependent ionic currents in mouse colonic smooth muscle cells].

Background/aims: Tamoxifen is a widely used anticancer drug for breast cancer with frequent gastrointestinal side effects. Changes in gastrointestinal motility is associated with altered activities of membrane ion channels. Ion channels have important role in regulating membrane potential and cell excitability.

[Characterization of pacemaking currents in cultured interstitial cells of Cajal from mice small intestine].

Background/aims: Gastrointestinal motility is initiated by the periodic generation of slow waves. Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are pacemaker cells that generate slow waves and drive spontaneous mechanical contractions of the gastrointestinal smooth muscle. Slow waves generate the periodic activation of spontaneous inward currents (pacemaker currents).