Understanding ATP-mediated Vasodilatation in Humans

Anne R. Crecelius, University of Dayton
Frank A. Dinenno, Colorado State University - Fort Collins

Physiology News is the Physiological Society’s quarterly magazine. It's available online at http://www.physoc.org/magazine.

Abstract

Negative results, cynicism, the piecing together of puzzles and integrating physiology with experimental approaches are all part of the inspiring and meandering journey on the path to understand ATP-mediated vasodilatation. While it is satisfying to be "right" as scientists, we know sometimes the most important progress occurs when data are surprising or contrary to our original hypothesis. The pursuit of explanations for unexpected findings often leads to the best advancements. The story of how our laboratory came to investigate the underlying vasodilatator pathways of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is an example of such a path to our current understanding.