Actions of lyotropic anions on the mechanical properties of fast and slow twitch rat muscles at different temperatures

The effects of lyotropic (swelling) anions (Cl(-), Br(-), NO(3)(-) and I(-)) on contractile properties of fast-twitch extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and slow-twitch soleus (SOL) muscles were investigated in vitro at 20 degrees C and 35 degrees C. Isolated muscles bathed in anionic Tyrode solution were stimulated directly and isometric single twitches and fused tetanic contractions were recorded. In a Cl(-)Tyrode solution a decrease of the bathing temperature led to a cold potentiation of the twitch tension (P(t)) in EDL muscles, however, to a cold depression in SOL muscles, in both muscles combined with a prolongation of contraction (CT) and half relaxation (HRT) times. The extent and order of the potentiating effect of lyotropic anions on the P(t), CT and HRT in EDL and SOL were quite similar and increased in the order: Cl(-)< Br(-)< NO(3)(-)< I(-). Since the lyotropic anions did not influence tetanic tensions, the twitch-tetanus ratio (TTR) was increased in NO(3)(-) and I(-)solutions. All effects of the anions were rapidly and completely reversed in both muscles when the test solution was replaced by the normal one. The temperature decrease caused no significant alteration in the potentiation capacity of the anions or in the kinetics of their action and reversibility.