The endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) response is a critical for the functioning of small blood vessels. We investigated the effect of streptozotocin-induced diabetes on the EDHF response and its possible role in the regulation of cardiac function. The vasorelaxant response to ACh- or NS309- (direct opener endothelial small- (SKCa)- and intermediateconductance (IKCa) calcium-activated potassium channels; main components of EDHF response) were measured in pressurized mesenteric arteries (diameter 300–350 lm). The response to 1 lM ACh was reduced in diabetes ( ± control vs ± diabetics; n P 8; P | The effect of streptozotocin-induced diabetes on the EDHF-type relaxation and cardiac function in rats
