Description:
<jats:p>We have analyzed the expression and localization of bovine transient receptor potential‐C1 (bTRPC1) in bovine aortic endothelial cells, and its possible involvement in the store‐independent calcium influx induced by basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). RT‐PCR experiments confirmed the existence of two btrpc1 mRNA isoforms; conversely, the btrpc3 gene was not transcribed. Anti‐TRPC1 antibody revealed the presence of the protein in the membrane‐rich compartment only. Application of anti‐TRPC1 during the response to bFGF caused a partial but significant reduction of calcium entry. This is the first evidence of TRP channel involvement in a non‐capacitative calcium influx induced by a biologically relevant agonist such as the angiogenic factor bFGF in native endothelial cells.</jats:p>