K+ channel activator inhibition of neurogenic goblet cell secretion in guinea pig trachea.

A potassium (K+) channel activator, BRL 38227, inhibited goblet cell secretion in guinea-pig trachea induced by either electrical stimulation of the vagus nerves or acute inhalation of cigarette smoke, two stimuli which activate both cholinergic nerves and capsaicin-sensitive sensory nerves. BRL 38227 failed to inhibit methacholine- or substance P-induced goblet cell secretion which suggests that K+ channel activators inhibit neurogenic goblet cell secretion via a prejunctional effect on cholinergic and sensory nerves.