Concentration-related differences in the effects of the Ca2+ agonist Bay K 8644 in human bronchus in vitro

1. In human isolated bronchial muscle Bay K 8644 (1 nM-1 microM) increased the force of contraction. In concentrations greater than 1 microM (in sensitized tissues), and 10 microM (in control), Bay K 8644 relaxed tissues to below their pretreatment baseline tension. 2. In control tissues contracted with methacholine or LTD4, Bay K 8644 (10 microM) produced a further small contraction; Bay K 8644 (100 microM) relaxed the tissues below baseline. 3. In tissues contracted with histamine, Bay K 8644 (10-100 microM) produced only relaxation. 4. Bay K 8644 therefore has both Ca2+ agonist and Ca2+ antagonist properties, the calcium agonist activity is more pronounced in sensitized tissues.