Induction of cholestasis in the perfused rat liver by 2‐aminoethyl diphenylborate, an inhibitor of the hepatocyte plasma membrane Ca 2+ channels

Background and Aims:  An increase in the cytoplasmic free Ca 2+ concentration in hepatocytes as a result of the release of Ca 2+ from intracellular stores and Ca 2+ inflow from the extracellular space is a necessary part of the mechanism by which bile acids are moved along the bile cannaliculus by contraction of the cannaliculus. 2‐Aminoethyl diphenylborate (2‐APB) is a recently discovered inhibitor of store‐operated plasma membrane Ca 2+ channels in hepatocytes. The aim of the present study was to test the ability of 2‐APB to inhibit bile flow. Methods:  Bile flow was measured in the isolated perfused rat liver using cannulation of the common bile duct. Measurements were carried out in the presence or absence of 2‐APB in either the presence of taurocholic acid (to enhance basal bile flow) or in the absence of taurocholic acid and in the presence of the hormones vasopressin and glucagon, which are known to stimulate bile flow. Results:  In livers perfused in the presence of taurocholic acid, 2‐APB reversibly inhibited bile flow with a slow time of onset. The time of onset of inhibition was reduced by prior addition of the endoplasmic reticulum (Ca 2+  + Mg 2+ )adenosine triphosphatase inhibitor, 2,5‐di‐t‐butylhydroquinone. In livers perfused in the absence of taurocholate, 2‐APB had little effect on the basal rate of bile flow, but inhibited the ability of vasopressin and glucagon to stimulate bile flow. Conclusions:  It is concluded that an inhibitor of hepatocyte plasma membrane Ca 2+ channels can induce cholestasis. The results provide evidence that suggests that, over a period of time, the normal function of hepatocyte store‐operated Ca 2+ channels is required to maintain bile flow. Future strategies directed at the regulation of bile flow might include pharmacological or other interventions that modulate Ca 2+ inflow to hepatocytes.