The effect of 2,5-di-(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (TBQ) on intracellular Ca2+ handling in rat ventricular myocytes

- The suitability of TBQ as a specific inhibitor of SERCA was investigated.
- TBQ decreased SERCA activity in a concentration dependent manner.
- TBQ inhibited the calcium current.
- TBQ activated an outward current consistent with an ATP-dependent potassium channel.
- TBQ cannot be used as a specific inhibitor of SERCA in rat cardiac myocytes.