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Background: Agonists of P2X₇ receptors increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in immunocytes. In this work we tested this response and its effect on mitochondrial inner membrane potential (Deltapsi(m)) in exocrine glands., Methods: The production of ROS by rat submandibular glands was investigated by measuring the oxidation of dichlorodihydrofluorescein (DCFH), a fluorescent probe. The Deltapsi(m) was estimated with tetramethylrhodamine., Results: Activation of P2X₇ receptors by ATP or Bz-ATP increased the production of ROS. This response was not modified by inhibitors of phospholipase A2 or of various kinases. The effect of ATP was calcium-dependent and was blocked by diphenyliodonium, an inhibitor of flavoproteins. It was not affected by rotenone, an inhibitor of the complex I of the mitochondrial electron transfer chain. Scavengers of ROS had no effect on the dissipation of Deltaψ(m) by ATP., Conclusions: We conclude that, in rat submandibular glands, P2X₇ receptors stimulate in a calcium-dependent manner an oxidase generating ROS, suggesting the involvement of the dual oxidase Duox2. The production of ROS does not contribute to the depolarization of mitochondria by purinergic agonists., General Significance: Purinergic receptors could be regulators of the bactericidal properties of saliva by promoting both the secretion of peroxidase from acinar cells and by activating Duox2., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)