Cyclooxygenase-2 modulates afferent arteriolar responses to increases in pressure

This study was designed to examine the contribution of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in the afferent arteriolar autoregulatory responses to increases in perfusion pressure and its relationship with neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). In rat kidneys, afferent arteriolar diameter responses to increases in perfusion pressure were assessed in vitro with the blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron technique. Basal afferent arteriolar diameter at 100 mm Hg averaged 21.0+/-1.2 microm (n=7), and the vasoconstrictor response to increasing perfusion pressure to 160 mm Hg averaged 18.4+/-1.2%. Superfusion with the COX-2 inhibitor NS398 (10 micromol/L) did not influence basal diameters, but it did significantly enhance the vasoconstrictor response to the increase in perfusion pressure (32.9+/-4.0%). In contrast to previous findings that the nNOS inhibitor S-methyl-L-thiocitrulline (10 micromol/L) enhanced afferent arteriolar autoregulatory responses in normal rat kidneys, in this study, administration of 10 micromol/L S-methyl-L-thiocitrulline did not further modulate the vasoconstrictor response to increases in perfusion pressure in the NS398-treated kidneys of normal rats (31.8+/-4.7%). When tubuloglomerular feedback activity was interrupted by papillectomy and the addition of 50 micromol/L furosemide to the blood perfusate (n=5 for each), the afferent arteriolar constrictor responses to increasing perfusion pressure to 160 mm Hg averaged 7.9+/-0.9% and 10.7+/-0.7%, respectively, and they were significantly attenuated compared with the responses observed in control kidneys. NS398 treatment did not modulate the afferent arteriolar autoregulatory responses in papillectomized or furosemide-treated kidneys. These results indicate that COX-2-derived metabolites contribute to the nNOS modulation of pressure-mediated afferent arteriolar autoregulatory responses.

Renal endosomes contain angiotensin peptides, converting enzyme, and AT(1A) receptors

Kidney cortex and proximal tubular angiotensin II (ANG II) levels are greater than can be explained on the basis of circulating ANG II, suggesting intrarenal compartmentalization of these peptides. One possible site of intracellular accumulation is the endosomes. In the present study, we tested for endosomal ANG I, ANG II, angiotensin type 1A receptor (AT(1A)), and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity and determined whether these levels are regulated by salt intake. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed chow containing either high or low dietary sodium for 10-14 days. Blood and kidneys were harvested and processed for measurement of plasma, kidney, and renal intermicrovillar cleft and endosomal angiotensin levels. Kidney ANG I averaged 179 +/- 20 fmol/g and ANG II averaged 258 +/- 36 fmol/g in rats fed a high-sodium diet and were significantly higher, averaging 347 +/- 58 fmol/g and 386 +/- 55 fmol/g, respectively, in rats fed a low-salt diet. Renal intermicrovillar clefts and endosomes contained ANG I and ANG II. Intermicrovillar cleft ANG I and ANG II levels averaged 8.4 +/- 2.6 and 74 +/- 26 fmol/mg, respectively, in rats fed a high-salt diet and 7.6 +/- 1.7 and 70 +/- 25 fmol/mg in rats fed a low-salt diet. Endosomal ANG I and ANG II levels averaged 12.3 +/- 4.4 and 43 +/- 19 fmol/mg, respectively, in rats fed a high-salt diet, and these levels were similar to those observed in rats fed a low-salt diet. Renal endosomes from rats fed a low-salt diet demonstrated significantly more AT(1A) receptor binding compared with rats fed a high-salt diet. ACE activity was detectable in renal intermicrovillar clefts and was 2.5-fold higher than the levels observed in renal endosomes. Acute enalaprilat treatment decreased ACE activity in renal intermicrovillar clefts by 90% and in renal endosomes by 84%. Likewise, intermicrovillar cleft and endosomal ANG II levels decreased by 61% and 52%, respectively, in enalaprilat-treated animals. These data demonstrate the presence of intact angiotensin peptides and ACE activity in renal intermicrovillar clefts and endosomes, indicating that intact angiotensin peptides are formed and/or trafficked through intracellular endosomal compartments and are dependent on ACE activity.

Neuronal NOS contributes to biphasic autoregulatory response during enhanced TGF activity

To assess the afferent arteriolar autoregulatory response during increased activity of the tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) mechanism and to delineate the contribution of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) to this response, afferent arteriolar diameter responses to changes in renal perfusion pressure (RPP) were monitored in vitro using the blood-perfused rat juxtamedullary nephron preparation. At RPP of 100 mmHg, basal afferent arteriolar diameter averaged 21.1 +/- 1.4 micrometer (n = 9). The initial and sustained constrictor responses of afferent arterioles to a 60-mmHg increase in RPP averaged 14.8 +/- 1.4% and 13.3 +/- 1.3%, respectively. Acetazolamide treatment, which enhances TGF responsiveness by increasing distal nephron volume delivery, significantly decreased basal afferent arteriolar diameter by 8.2 +/- 0.5% and enhanced the initial response (25.5 +/- 2.3%) to a 60-mmHg increase in RPP but did not alter the sustained response (14.3 +/- 1.5%). In another series of experiments, nNOS inhibition with 10 microM S-methyl-L-thiocitrulline (L-SMTC) significantly decreased afferent arteriolar diameter from 20.3 +/- 1.3 to 18.3 +/- 1.1 micrometer (n = 7) and enhanced both the initial (34.4 +/- 3.5%) and sustained constrictor responses (27.6 +/- 2.9%) to a 60-mmHg increase in RPP. Treatment with acetazolamide further enhanced both initial (56.4 +/- 3.0%) and sustained responses (54.6 +/- 2.7%). Interruption of distal delivery by transection of the loops of Henle prevented the enhanced responses to increases in RPP elicited with either acetazolamide or L-SMTC. These results indicate that nNOS contributes to the counteracting resetting process of biphasic afferent arteriolar constrictor responses to increases in RPP through a TGF-dependent mechanism.

Intrarenal angiotensin II generation and renal effects of AT1 receptor blockade

The intrarenal renin-angiotensin system plays a critical role in the paracrine regulation of renal function and the pathophysiology of hypertension. Angiotensin II (AngII) is formed intrarenally from systemically delivered angiotensin I (AngI) and intrarenally formed AngI. Intrarenal AngII content, which is greater than can be explained by the circulating AngII concentrations, is compartmentalized such that proximal tubule concentrations of AngI and AngII greatly exceed plasma concentrations. Proximal tubule cells are thought to secrete AngII or precursors of AngII into the tubular fluid to activate luminal AngII receptors. Recent immunohistochemical studies have demonstrated an abundance of AT1 receptors on the luminal surface of proximal and distal tubule cells and on afferent and efferent arteriolar vascular smooth muscle cells and mesangial cells of glomeruli. Activation of luminal AT1 receptors stimulates tubular sodium reabsorption rate. To evaluate the direct effects of AT1 receptor blockade on renal function in AngII-dependent hypertension, experiments were performed on two-kidney, one-clip (2K1C) Goldblatt hypertensive rats. Although the nonclipped kidney is renin-depleted, the intrarenal AngII levels are not suppressed, and AngII concentrations in proximal tubular fluid remain high (10(-8) M). Candesartan was administered into the renal artery of nonclipped kidneys to avoid the confounding consequences of decreases in arterial pressure. Blockade of intrarenal AT1 receptors elicited significant increases in GFR, renal blood flow, sodium excretion, and fractional sodium excretion, suggesting synergistic actions on tubular transport and vascular smooth muscle cells.

P2 purinoceptor saturation by adenosine triphosphate impairs renal autoregulation in dogs

Recent studies have suggested a role for P2 purinoceptors on vascular smooth muscle cells in the mechanism of renal autoregulation. Experiments were performed in anesthetized dogs (n = 9) to examine renal blood flow (RBF) autoregulatory efficiency before and after saturation of P2 purinoceptors with acute intra-arterial administration of ATP (1 mg/kg per min). Dogs were pretreated with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor nitro-L-arginine (NLA) (50 microg/kg per min), to avoid endothelial P2 receptor-mediated effects on nitric oxide release caused by the intra-arterial ATP infusions. NLA treatment decreased RBF (5.3+/-0.3 to 3.6+/-0.2 ml/min per g) and sodium excretion (3.6+/-0.4 to 0.9+/-0.2 ml/min per g) without producing significant changes in GFR (0.92+/-0.04 to 0.90+/-0.06 ml/min per g) or RBF autoregulatory efficiency. ATP administration to NLA-treated dogs resulted in further decreases in RBF (2.8+/-0.2 ml/min per g), GFR (0.58+/-0.05 ml/min per g), and sodium excretion (0.6+/-0.2 micromol/min per g). In addition, there was marked impairment of RBF autoregulatory efficiency during ATP infusion. The slopes of the arterial pressure-blood flow relationships at renal arterial pressures of >75 mmHg were significantly altered, from 0.003+/-0.001 to 0.2+/-0.002 ml/min per g per mmHg. Discontinuation of ATP infusion restored RBF autoregulatory efficiency. Norepinephrine (5 microg/kg per min) administration in these NLA-treated dogs decreased RBF (2.5+/-0.3 ml/min per g; n = 4) to a similar extent, compared with ATP, but did not impair RBF autoregulation. These results support the hypothesis that P2 purinoceptors may be involved in mediating autoregulatory adjustments in renal vascular resistance.

Kinin influences on renal regional blood flow responses to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition in dogs

The relative roles of ANG II and bradykinin (BK) in the regulation of renal medullary circulation have remained unclear. We compared the contributions of ANG II and BK to the renal medullary blood flow (MBF) responses to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition (enalaprilat, 33 micrograms . kg-1. min-1) in dogs maintained on a normal-salt diet (0.63%, 3 days, n = 14; group 1) with those fed a low-salt diet (0.01%, 5 days, n = 14; group 2), which upregulates both the kallikrein-kinin and the renin-angiotensin systems. MBF responses to ACE inhibition were evaluated either before (n = 7) or after (n = 7) treatment with the BK B2 receptor blocker icatibant (100-300 micergrams) in both groups. Laser-Doppler needle flow probes were used to determine relative changes in MBF and cortical blood flow (CBF). ACE inhibition increased MBF (group 1, 33 +/- 9%, P </= 0.01; group 2, 24 +/- 9%, P </= 0.005) as well as CBF (group 1, 23 +/- 2%, P </= 0.006; group 2, 28 +/- 10%, P </= 0.05). These responses were prevented by prior blockade of B2 receptors in group 2, but not in group 1. These data indicate that under normal sodium intake, increases in MBF and CBF caused by ACE inhibition are primarily due to reduced intrarenal ANG II levels. In contrast, the renal vasodilatory responses to ACE inhibition in dogs on low salt intake were markedly dependent on the activation of BK B2 receptors.

Regulation of angiotensin II type 1 receptor mRNA and protein in angiotensin II-induced hypertension

Chronic elevations of circulating angiotensin II (Ang II) cause sustained hypertension and enhanced accumulation of intrarenal Ang II by an AT1 receptor-dependent process. The present study tested the hypothesis that chronic elevations in circulating Ang II regulate AT1 mRNA and protein expression in a tissue-specific manner. Sprague-Dawley rats were infused with Ang II (80 ng/min) or vehicle subcutaneously for 13 days via osmotic minipump. On day 12, systolic blood pressure averaged 186+/-12 mm Hg in Ang II-infused rats compared with rats given vehicle (121+/-2 mm Hg). Plasma renin activity was markedly suppressed in the Ang II-infused rats compared with vehicle-infused rats (0.1+/-0.01 versus 4.9+/-0.9 ng of Ang I. mL-1. h-1; P<0.05). Semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction using rat AT1A- and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate-dehydrogenase (GAPDH)-specific primers was followed by Southern blot hybridization using specific radiolabeled cDNA or oligonucleotide probes. The results showed that the ratios of AT1A/GAPDH mRNA in the kidney (0.19+/-0.05 versus 0. 26+/-0.03) and liver (2.8+/-0.9 versus 3.0+/-0.5) were comparable in Ang II- and vehicle-infused rats. In contrast, AT1A/GAPDH mRNA levels were increased in the adrenal glands of Ang II-infused rats (0.49+/-0.04 versus 0.36+/-0.02; P<0.05). Western blot analysis showed that AT1 protein levels in the kidney and liver were also similar in the two groups. Therefore, these results indicate that renal and liver AT1 receptor gene expression is maintained in Ang II-induced hypertension. The failure to downregulate AT1 receptor mRNA and protein levels thus allows the sustained effects of chronic elevations in Ang II to elicit progressive increases in arterial pressure.

Neuronal nitric oxide synthase-dependent afferent arteriolar function in angiotensin II-induced hypertension

This study was designed to determine the influence of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in tubular flow-dependent regulation of afferent arteriolar diameter in hypertensive Sprague-Dawley rats that received 60 ng/min angiotensin II (Ang II) subcutaneously for 13 days. Systolic blood pressure of control and Ang II-infused rats averaged 122+/-2 (n=23) and 194+/-2 mm Hg (n=24). Afferent arteriolar responses to the nNOS inhibitor S-methyl-L-thiocitrulline (L-SMTC; 0.1 to 10 micromol/L) and the nonselective NOS inhibitor Nomega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA; 1 to 100 micromol/L) were assessed in vitro using the blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron preparation. At a perfusion pressure of 160 mm Hg, afferent arteriolar diameters from control and Ang II-infused rats averaged 18.7+/-1.1 microm (n=8) and 18.1+/-1.1 microm (n=9), respectively, and decreased by 19. 9+/-1.5% and 11.8+/-1.1%, respectively, in response to 10 micromol/L L-SMTC. The L-SMTC-induced afferent arteriolar constriction was significantly greater in control than in Ang II-infused rats. In contrast, 100 micromol/L L-NNA constricted afferent arterioles similarly in both control (n=8) and Ang II-infused (n=7) rats. After transection of the loops of Henle to interrupt flow to the macula densa, the vasoconstrictor responses to L-SMTC but not to L-NNA were reversed. Increasing distal volume delivery by addition of 10 mmol/L acetazolamide to the blood perfusate significantly enhanced the afferent arteriolar constrictor responses to 10 micromol/L L-SMTC (34.5+/-4.8%, n=7) in normotensive rats. In contrast, in Ang II-infused rats, acetazolamide treatment did not enhance the responses to L-SMTC (n=8). These results indicate that chronic Ang II infusion reduces the ability of nNOS-derived nitric oxide to counteract the afferent arteriolar response to increased distal tubular flow.

Renal responses of the nonclipped kidney of two-kidney/one-clip Goldblatt hypertensive rats to type 1 angiotensin II receptor blockade with candesartan

Recent studies with normal rats indicated that systemic administration of the angiotensin II (AngII) type 1 (AT1) receptor blocker candesartan elicited divergent renal hemodynamic and excretory responses depending on the magnitude of associated decreases in mean arterial pressure. To evaluate the responses to candesartan in hypertensive rats, experiments were performed 25 d after unilateral renal arterial constriction with a 0.25-mm clip. The rats were anesthetized and prepared for acute clearance experiments. Control arterial pressure responses to a bolus AngII dose (50 ng) averaged 35+/-7 mmHg; the control decreases in cortical renal blood flow (RBF), measured with laser Doppler flowmetry, were 58+/-9%. The vasoconstrictor responses to AngII were abolished by candesartan doses of 1 and 0.1 mg/kg. Treatment with 0.01 mg/kg candesartan attenuated the arterial pressure responses but did not prevent the cortical RBF decreases. The highest dose of candesartan (1 mg/kg) elicited rapid reductions in arterial pressure (from 154+/-5 to 122+/-9 mmHg), leading to associated decreases in RBF (from 5.5+/-0.2 to 4.6+/-0.4 ml/min x g) and sodium excretion (from 0.4+/-0.1 to 0.2+/-0.1 microEq/min x g). The 0.1 mg/kg dose of candesartan led to gradual reductions in arterial pressure (from 155+/-5 to 140+/-5 mmHg), and there were significant increases in RBF (from 5.4+/-0.2 to 6.8+/-0.4 ml/min x g) and decreases in renal vascular resistance. However, this dose still decreased urine flow and sodium excretion. In contrast, when candesartan was administered at 0.01 mg/kg, a dose that did not significantly decrease arterial pressure, there were significant increases in RBF (26+/-11%) and urine flow (43+/-19%) and proportionately greater increases in sodium excretion (284+/-89%) and fractional sodium excretion (351+/-99%). These data demonstrate the divergent renal hemodynamic and sodium excretory responses to AT1 receptor blockade in hypertensive rats, depending on the magnitude of decreases in arterial pressure. The lower candesartan dose, which did not cause hypotension, elicited substantial increases in RBF and proportionally much greater increases in sodium excretion, revealing the direct renal vasodilation and natriuretic effects of AT1 receptor blockade.

Proximal tubular angiotensin II levels and renal functional responses to AT1 receptor blockade in nonclipped kidneys of Goldblatt hypertensive rats

-Previous studies have shown that whereas the nonclipped kidney in two-kidney, one clip (2K1C) rats undergoes marked depletion of renin content and renin mRNA, intrarenal angiotensin II (Ang II) levels are not suppressed; however, the distribution and functional consequences of intrarenal Ang II remain unclear. The present study was performed to assess the plasma, kidney, and proximal tubular fluid levels of Ang II and the renal responses to intrarenal Ang II blockade in the nonclipped kidneys of rats clipped for 3 weeks. The Ang II concentrations in proximal tubular fluid averaged 9.19+/-1.06 pmol/mL, whereas plasma Ang II levels averaged 483+/-55 fmol/mL and kidney Ang II content averaged 650+/-66 fmol/g. Thus, as found in kidneys from normal rats with normal renin levels, proximal tubular fluid concentrations of Ang II are in the nanomolar range. To avoid the confounding effects of decreases in mean arterial pressure (MAP), we administered the nonsurmountable AT1 receptor antagonist candesartan directly into the renal artery of nonclipped kidneys (n=10). The dose of candesartan (0.5 microg) did not significantly decrease MAP in 2K1C rats (152+/-3 versus 148+/-3 mm Hg), but effectively prevented the renal vasoconstriction elicited by an intra-arterial bolus of Ang II (2 ng). Candesartan elicited significant increases in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) (0.65+/-0. 06 to 0.83+/-0.11 mL. min-1. g-1) and renal blood flow (6.3+/-0.7 to 7.3+/-0.9 mL. min-1. g-1), and proportionately greater increases in absolute sodium excretion (0.23+/-0.07 to 1.13+/-0.34 micromol. min-1. g-1) and fractional sodium excretion (0.38+/-0.1% to 1.22+/-0. 35%) in 2K1C hypertensive rats. These results show that proximal tubular fluid concentrations of Ang II are in the nanomolar range and are much higher than can be explained on the basis of plasma levels. Further, the data show that the intratubular levels of Ang II in the nonclipped kidneys of 2K1C rats remain at levels found in kidneys with normal renin content and could be exerting effects to suppress renal hemodynamic and glomerular function and to enhance tubular reabsorption rate.

Concentrations and actions of intraluminal angiotensin II

Although the presence of angiotensin II (AngII) receptors on the luminal membranes of proximal tubule cells has been recognized for many years, recent immunohistochemical studies using polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies to the AngII type 1 (AT1) receptor have demonstrated an abundance of the AT1 receptor not only on the luminal surface of proximal tubule cells but also on the luminal surfaces of distal nephron segments. An important role for these receptors in the regulation of tubular transport mechanisms was indicated by the recent findings of remarkably high proximal intratubular concentrations of AngII (in the range of 10(-9) to 10(-8) M). The high intratubular concentrations of AngII, as well as angiotensin I and angiotensinogen, are much greater than can be explained on the basis of delivery via glomerular filtration. When coupled with the findings demonstrating the presence of angiotensinogen and angiotensinogen mRNA in proximal tubule cells, the data indicate that AngII or precursors of AngII are secreted directly into the proximal tubule lumen by the epithelial cells. Although the mechanisms responsible for the regulation of intratubular AngII concentrations remain to be determined, micropuncture studies have provided direct evidence that activation of intraluminal AT1 receptors by AngII exerts a substantial stimulatory influence on sodium and bicarbonate transport by both proximal and distal tubules. Collectively, these data provide support for the hypothesis that activation of luminal AT1 receptors by AngII present in the tubular fluid contributes importantly to regulation of the tubular reabsorption rate.

Cyclooxygenase-2 participates in tubular flow-dependent afferent arteriolar tone: interaction with neuronal NOS

To delineate the microvascular role of cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) in modulating tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) signals and to determine its relationship to neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), afferent (AA) and efferent (EA) arteriolar diameters of rat kidneys were assessed using the blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron technique. The Cox-2 inhibitor NS-398 (10 microM) did not alter AA diameters in untreated kidneys but significantly constricted AAs by 17.0 +/- 2.2% in kidneys treated with 10 mM acetazolamide, which enhances TGF-mediated AA constriction by increasing distal volume delivery. The NS-398-induced AA constriction was prevented after interruption of distal delivery by transection of the loops of Henle. The effect was selective for AAs since NS-398 did not influence EAs of untreated or acetazolamide-treated kidneys. Pretreatment with the nNOS inhibitor S-methyl-L-thiocitrulline (10 microM) prevented the NS-398-induced AA constriction observed during acetazolamide treatment. Although we previously demonstrated that acetazolamide treatment enhanced AA constrictor response to S-methyl-L-thiocitrulline, the enhancement by acetazolamide was inhibited by pretreatment with 10 microM NS-398 (16.4 +/- 1.9 and 15. 0 +/- 0.5% with and without acetazolamide, respectively, P > 0.05). These results indicate that, during increased activation of TGF-dependent vasoconstrictor signals, Cox-2 generates vasodilatory metabolites in response to increased nNOS activity and thus participates in the counteracting modulation of TGF-mediated AA constriction.

Heterogeneous activation mechanisms in the renal microvasculature

Vascular smooth muscle cells in different renal microvascular segments utilize different activation mechanisms to respond to mechanical and vasoactive stimuli. L-type Ca2+ channel blockers vasodilate primarily the preglomerular vascular resistance component responsible for autoregulation. Local interstitial infiltration of Ca2+ channel blockers increases glomerular pressure and markedly reduces vascular responsiveness of the tubuloglomerular feedback mechanism. Ca2+ channel blockers selectively attenuate the afferent vasoconstrictor responses to increases in perfusion pressure. Although both afferent and efferent arterioles constrict in response to angiotensin II (Ang II), afferent but not efferent constriction requires Ca2+ influx through L-type Ca2+ channels. Sensitivity of the preglomerular arterioles to Ang II is also heterogeneous with the greatest sensitivity in glomerulus-near, terminal segments. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a vasoconstrictor agonist that selectively activates Ca2+ entry pathways in afferent arterioles but has no effect on efferent arterioles. In isolated preglomerular smooth muscle cells, increasing extracellular [KCl] increases intracellular Ca2+ by stimulating voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx. Ang II, norepinephrine, and ATP also elicit similar increases in intracellular Ca2+. Mechanical and agonist-induced voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx is thus a primary pathway in the control of cytosolic Ca2+ in afferent arterioles. Efferent arterioles, however, rely primarily on intracellular Ca2+ mobilization and other Ca2+ influx pathways.

Intrarenal nitric oxide activity and pressure natriuresis in anesthetized dogs

Recent studies have indicated that changes in intrarenal nitric oxide (NO) production participate in mediating arterial pressure-induced changes in urinary sodium excretion. Until recently, however, the means to measure changes in intrarenal NO activity in vivo have not been available. For the present study, changes in renal tissue NO activities were assessed directly using an NO-selective microelectrode inserted into the cortical tissue of anesthetized dogs. Control studies demonstrated that the electrode was responsive to intrarenal bolus injections of acetylcholine and to the NO donor S-nitroso-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP). Intrarenal nitro-L-arginine (50 microg x kg(-1) x min(-1)) decreased renal tissue NO concentration by 593+/-127 nmol/L (P<0.05; n=7). Infusions of SNAP (1, 2, and 3 microg x kg(-1) x min(-1) for 25 minutes) in nitro-L-arginine-treated dogs (n=5) resulted in dose-dependent increases in renal tissue NO activity, which showed a positive correlation with changes in urinary excretion rates of NO metabolites, nitrates and nitrites, (r=0.62, P<0.05) and sodium (r=0.78, P<0.01). During graded reductions of renal arterial pressure within the autoregulatory range (144+/-3 to 73+/-2 mm Hg; n=10), there were decreases in tissue NO activity that were positively correlated with changes in renal arterial pressure (r=0.45; P<0.05), urinary nitrate/nitrite excretion (r=0.64, P<0.005), and urinary sodium excretion (r=0.46; P<0.05). These data support the hypothesis that acute changes in renal arterial pressure result in alterations in intrarenal NO activity, which may be responsible for the associated changes in sodium excretion.

Interactive nitric oxide-angiotensin II influences on renal microcirculation in angiotensin II-induced hypertension

The present study was conducted to determine the contribution of nitric oxide to angiotensin II (Ang II) reactivity of afferent and efferent arterioles from Ang II-infused hypertensive rats. Experiments were performed in vitro with the blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron technique in kidneys harvested from hypertensive Sprague-Dawley rats (181+/-1 mm Hg) that had received 60 ng/min Ang II subcutaneously for 13 days. Superfusion with 0.1, 1, and 10 nmol/L Ang II reduced afferent arteriolar diameter (18.1+/-0.6 microm; n=12) by 10.0+/-0.7%, 28.1+/-1.7%, and 52.8+/-1.9%, respectively, and efferent arteriolar diameter (17.2+/-1.4 microm; n=8) decreased by 9.3+/-0.7%, 27.0+/-1.2%, and 50.4+/-1.6%, respectively. Nitric oxide synthase inhibition with 100 micromol/L N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine (NLA) reduced resting afferent and efferent arteriolar diameters to 14.7+/-0.4 and 14.3+/-1.2 microm, respectively, and enhanced afferent but not efferent arteriolar reactivity to Ang II. The enhanced afferent arteriolar reactivity to Ang II was eliminated by addition of the nitric oxide donor S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP, 10 micromol/L), which reversed the NLA-induced decrease in diameter. Addition of 10 micromol/L SNAP, without NLA, blunted efferent but not afferent arteriolar reactivity to Ang II. Afferent (n=7) and efferent arteriolar diameters (n=6) decreased by 48.5+/-2.2% and 41.0+/-1.9%, respectively, in response to 10 nmol/L Ang II. These results suggest that in this model of hypertension, maintained nitric oxide production in afferent arterioles counteracts the enhanced afferent arteriolar reactivity that occurs in Ang II-induced hypertension.

Effects of acute AT1 receptor blockade by candesartan on arterial pressure and renal function in rats

Experiments were performed on normal anesthetized rats to determine the effects of candesartan, a novel AT1 receptor antagonist, on the arterial pressure and renal hemodynamic responses to bolus doses of angiotensin II (ANG II) and on renal hemodynamics and sodium excretion. Control arterial pressure responses to bolus ANG II doses of 10, 50, 100 and 1,000 ng were 26 +/- 6, 54 +/- 7, 57 +/- 7, and 79 +/- 7 mmHg; the decreases in cortical renal blood flow (CRBF), measured with laser-Doppler flowmetry, were 47 +/- 9, 64 +/- 8, 71 +/- 6, and 82 +/- 6%. The vasoconstrictor responses to ANG II up to 1,000 ng were completely blocked by candesartan doses of 1 and 0.1 mg/kg, whereas treatment with 0.01 mg/kg candesartan attenuated the arterial pressure and CRBF responses. The higher doses of candesartan (1 and 0.1 mg/kg) elicited rapid decreases in arterial pressure, leading to associated decreases in sodium excretion. Renal blood flow (RBF), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and urine flow also decreased following treatment with candesartan at 1 mg/kg. In contrast, when candesartan was given at 0.01 mg/kg, which did not decrease arterial pressure significantly, there were significant increases in GFR (16 +/- 4), RBF (9 +/- 2), urine flow (11 +/- 2), sodium excretion (35 +/- 7), and fractional sodium excretion (39 +/- 8%). The inability to overcome blockade, even with very high ANG II doses, indicates that candesartan is a potent noncompetitive blocker of ANG II pressor and renal vasoconstrictor effects. The lower candesartan dose that did not cause significant hypotension elicited substantial increases in RBF, GFR, and sodium excretion, revealing the direct renal vasodilator and natriuretic effects of AT1 receptor blockade.

Renoprotective effects of nitric oxide in angiotensin II-induced hypertension in the rat

Experiments were performed in anesthetized male Sprague-Dawley rats to determine whether increased nitric oxide (NO) activity during the development of hypertension exerts a protective effect on renal cortical blood flow (CBF) and medullary blood flow (MBF). The effects of acute NO synthase inhibition on renal function and on CBF and MBF, measured by laser-Doppler flow probes, were evaluated in control and ANG II-infused hypertensive rats, prepared by the infusion of ANG II at a rate of 65 ng/min via osmotic minipumps implanted subcutaneously for 13 days. In normotensive rats (n = 8), intravenous infusion of N omega-nitro-L-arginine (NLA; 20 micrograms.100 g-1.min-1) decreased CBF by 21 +/- 4% and MBF by 49 +/- 8% and increased blood pressure from 118 +/- 1 to 140 +/- 2 mmHg. In ANG II-infused rats (n = 7), CBF and MBF decreased by 46 +/- 5% and 25 +/- 6%, respectively, during infusion of NLA. Arterial pressure increased from 160 +/- 5 to 197 +/- 7 mmHg, which was a greater absolute increase than in normotensive controls. Basal renal blood flow (RBF), estimated from p-aminohippurate clearance and hematocrit, was similar in both the control (6.0 +/- 0.5 ml.min-1.g-1) and hypertensive (6.0 +/- 0.6 ml.min-1.g-1) rats. However, NLA-induced reductions in RBF averaged 60 +/- 5% in the hypertensive rats, compared with 31 +/- 9% observed in control rats. GFR in control (0.97 +/- 0.03 ml.min-1.g-1) and hypertensive rats (0.78 +/- 0.12 ml.min-1.g-1) decreased to a similar extent during the first 30-min period of NLA infusion. GFR returned toward control levels in control rats; in contrast, GFR remained significantly decreased in the ANG II-infused rats (0.58 +/- 0.11 ml.min-1.g-1). Basal urinary sodium excretion (0.2 +/- 0.08 mueq.min-1.g-1), fractional excretion of sodium (0.3 +/- 0.13%), and urine flow (4.9 +/- 0.39 microliters.min-1.g-1) in hypertensive rats did not increase significantly after NLA treatment as occurred in normotensive controls. These data suggest that a compensatory increase in nitric oxide activity partially counteracts the vasoconstrictor influence of elevated ANG II levels to regulate renal hemodynamics and maintain cortical perfusion in the renal circulation.

Renal uptake of circulating angiotensin II in Val5-angiotensin II infused rats is mediated by AT1 receptor

Previous studies have demonstrated that augmentation of intrarenal angiotensin II (ANG II) levels during ANG II induced hypertension involves both endogenous formation and accumulation of circulating ANG II. The present work extends these findings and determines whether accumulation of infused ANG II in the kidney requires AT1 receptor activation by using Val5-ANG II as the infused peptide. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were uninephrectomized and divided into three groups: control (n = 6), Val5-ANG II (exogenous form) infused (n = 8), and Val5-ANG II infused rats treated with losartan (n = 8). Val5-ANG II, which has the same biological and immunoreactive properties as endogenous ANG II, was infused at 40 ng/min via an osmotic minipump implanted subcutaneously. By day 12, systolic blood pressure (SBP) increased significantly in Val5-ANG II infused rats (197 +/- 7 mm Hg). As previously shown, the development of hypertension in ANG II infused rats was prevented by losartan treatment. Blood and kidney samples were harvested, subjected to HPLC to separate Val5-ANG II (exogenous) from Ile5-ANG II (endogenous) and the fractions were measured by radioimmunoassay. In the Val5-ANG II infused rats treated with losartan, total plasma ANG II levels were elevated to a greater extent than in rats not treated with losartan (289 +/- 20 v 119 +/- 14 fmol/mL). However, losartan markedly decreased by 88% the enhancement of intrarenal Val5-ANG II content that occurred in the rats infused with Val5-ANG II alone. These results demonstrate that AT1 receptor blockade markedly reduces the intrarenal uptake of circulating ANG II that occurs in ANG II induced hypertension.

Neuronal nitric oxide synthase modulates rat renal microvascular function

This study was performed to determine the influence of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) on renal arteriolar tone under conditions of normal, interrupted, and increased volume delivery to the macula densa segment and on the microvascular responses to angiotensin II (ANG II). Experiments were performed in vitro on afferent (21.2 +/- 0.2 microns) and efferent (18.5 +/- 0.2 microns) arterioles of kidneys harvested from male Sprague-Dawley rats, using the blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron technique. Superfusion with the specific nNOS inhibitor, S-methyl-L-thiocitrulline (L-SMTC), decreased afferent and efferent arteriolar diameters, and these decreases in arteriolar diameters were prevented by interruption of distal volume delivery by papillectomy. When 10 mM acetazolamide was added to the blood perfusate to increase volume delivery to the macula densa segment, afferent arteriolar vasoconstrictor responses to L-SMTC were enhanced, but this effect was again completely prevented after papillectomy. In contrast, the arteriolar diameter responses to the nonselective NOS inhibitor, N omega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA) were only attenuated by papillectomy. L-SMTC (10 microM) enhanced the efferent arteriolar vasoconstrictor response to ANG II but did not alter the afferent arteriolar vasoconstrictor responsiveness to ANG II. In contrast, L-NNA (100 microM) enhanced both afferent and efferent arteriolar vasoconstrictor responses to ANG II. These results indicate that the modulating influence of nNOS on afferent arteriolar tone of juxtamedullary nephrons is dependent on distal tubular fluid flow. Furthermore, nNOS exerts a differential modulatory action on the juxtamedullary micro-vasculature by enhancing efferent, but not afferent, arteriolar responsiveness to ANG II.

Integrating multiple paracrine regulators of renal microvascular dynamics

There has been tremendous growth in our knowledge about the multiple interacting mechanisms that regulate renal microvascular function. Paracrine signals originating from endothelial and epithelial cells exert profound influences on the basal tone and reactivity of the pre- and postglomerular arterioles. Selective responsiveness of these arterioles to various stimuli is possible because of differential activating mechanisms in vascular smooth muscle cells of afferent and efferent arterioles. Afferent arterioles rely predominantly on voltage-dependent calcium channels, while efferent arterioles utilize other mechanisms for calcium entry as well as intracellular calcium mobilization. The autoregulatory responses of preglomerular arterioles exemplify the selectivity of these complex control mechanisms. The myogenic mechanism responds to increases in renal perfusion pressure through "stretch-activated" cation channels that lead to depolarization, calcium entry, and vascular contraction. Autoregulatory efficiency is enhanced by the tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) mechanism which responds to flow-dependent changes in tubular fluid composition at the level of the macula densa and transmits signals to the afferent arterioles to alter the activation state of voltage-dependent calcium channels. Recent studies have implicated extracellular ATP as one paracrine factor mediating TGF and autoregulatory related signals to the afferent arterioles. Other paracrine agents including nitric oxide, angiotensin II, adenosine, and arachidonic acid metabolites modulate vascular responsiveness in order to maintain an optimal balance between the metabolically determined reabsorptive capabilities of the tubules and the hemodynamically dependent filtered load.

Intrarenal production of angiotensin II

The intrarenal renin-angiotensin system plays a critical role in the paracrine regulation of renal hemodynamics and tubular transport function. Much of the intrarenal angiotensin II (ANG II) is formed locally as evidenced by intrarenal ANG II contents that are much greater than can be explained from the circulating ANG II concentration. Intrarenal ANG II is formed from systemically delivered ANG I and from intrarenally formed ANG I derived from systemically delivered angiotensinogen as well as locally synthesized angiotensionogen. There is a regional distribution of intrarenal ANG II in that the medullary content per gram of tissue is four to five times higher than the cortical content. In addition, most of the cortical ANG II is compartmentalized in the renal interstitial fluid and in the tubular fluid. Proximal tubule cells contain all the components of the renin-angiotensin system necessary for synthesis and secretion of ANG II. Proximal tubule concentrations of ANG II as well as ANG I and angiotensinogen support the concept that the proximal tubule cells secrete ANG II or precursors of ANG II into the tubular fluid. The intratubular concentrations of ANG II are in the nanomolar range, indicating a substantial capability to influence luminal ANG II receptors on the tubule cell membranes. Thus, much of the ANG II-dependent actions on tubular transport functions could be due to specific effects of locally synthesized ANG II on luminal ANG II receptors. Experimental evidence shows that the intratubular ANG II concentrations are regulated independently of the circulating concentrations, but the specific mechanisms responsible remain to be delineated.

The kidney in blood pressure regulation and development of hypertension

Systemic arterial pressure is a dynamic and responsive physiologic parameter that can be influenced by many different factors. In particular, short-term changes in arterial pressure are caused by a myriad of mechanisms that affect cardiac output, total peripheral resistance, and cardiovascular capacitance. In the long run, however, most of these actions can be buffered or compensated by appropriate renal adjustments of sodium balance, ECFV, and blood volume. As long as the mechanisms regulating sodium excretion can maintain sodium balance by appropriately modulating the sensitivity of the pressure-natriuresis relationship, normal arterial pressure can be sustained. Derangements that compromise the ability of the kidneys to maintain sodium balance, however, can result in the kidney's need for an elevated arterial pressure to reestablish net salt and water balance.

Nitric oxide in the mediation of pressure natriuresis

1. Recent studies have indicated that nitric oxide (NO) production in the kidney contributes to the regulation of renal haemodynamics and excretory function. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) reduces renal blood flow by approximately 25% and markedly reduces sodium excretion without reductions in filtered load. In particular, inhibition of NO synthesis markedly suppresses the slope of the arterial pressure-mediated response in sodium excretion. 2. Further studies have shown that constant intrarenal infusion of a NO donor in dogs treated with a NOS inhibitor produced diuretic and natriuretic responses but failed to restore the slope of the pressure-induced natriuretic response. These data indicate that an alteration in intrarenal NO activity, rather than the simple presence of NO during changes in arterial pressure is required for full expression of pressure natriuretic responses. 3. In support of the hypothesis that NO is involved in the mediation of pressure natriuresis, we also recently demonstrated a direct relationship between changes in arterial pressure and urinary excretion rate of sodium as well as nitrate and nitrite (a marker for endogenous NO activity) in the presence of efficient autoregulation of cortical and medullary blood flow. 4. The direct inhibitory actions of NO on tubular sodium reabsorption have also been observed in cultured tubular cells as well as isolated, perfused cortical collecting duct segments. 5. Thus, the collective data suggest that acute changes in arterial pressure induce changes in intrarenal NO production, which may directly alter tubular reabsorptive function to manifest the phenomenon of pressure natriuresis.

Plasma renin activity and metabolic clearance rate of angiotensin II in the unstressed aging rat

We conducted studies in conscious chronically catheterized, trained young (3-5 months) and old (18-20 months) rats to assess the impact of aging on baseline renin activity (PRA) and metabolic clearance rate (MCR) of angiotensin II (ANG II). We observed that under unstressed conditions the baseline values of PRA and plasma ANG II were no different in young versus old rats (1.8 +/- 0.2 versus 1.5 +/- 0.2 ng Al/ml/h and 18 +/- 3 versus 15 +/- 2 fmol/ml, respectively). Values of PRA in the present study were similar to those reported by others for old rats, but our young rat values were lower than usually reported. This probably reflects our use of an unstressed preparation. We also observed a blunted increase in PRA in old rats in response to acute converting enzyme inhibition. Overall, our observations suggest that old rats may lose their ability to increase PRA in response to acute stimuli, including perhaps, the stress of blood drawing in emotionally or surgically stressed preparations. We also observed that the MCR of ANG II increased with age, despite similar baseline plasma ANG II concentrations in young and old. This suggests that with aging, an increase occurs in the rate of synthesis of ANG II. These results emphasize the importance of establishing true baseline values for indices of the renin-ANG II system in aging.

Immunohistochemical localization of ANG II AT1 receptor in adult rat kidney using a monoclonal antibody

Molecular and functional studies have suggested that AT1 receptors are present in most nephron segments, yet direct demonstration of AT1 at these sites is lacking. The present study was performed to determine the intrarenal localization of the AT1 receptor utilizing a monoclonal anti-peptide (amino acid residues 8-17) antibody (6313/G2) in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. Western blot analysis of kidney protein extracts showed a predominant 41-kDa immunoreactive band corresponding to the molecular weight of the deduced cDNA sequence. To determine optimal fixation conditions, kidney tissues were immersion fixed in Bouin's solution, 10% buffered Formalin, or 4% paraformaldehyde. Specificity of immunostaining was documented by preadsorption of the antibody with the immunogenic peptide sequence. Prominent AT1 immunostaining was visualized in the proximal tubule brush-border and basolateral membranes. In addition, distal tubules, cortical and medullary collecting ducts, and the renal arterial vasculature exhibited specific immunoreactivity. Glomerular staining for AT1 was observed in mesangial cells and podocytes. Macula densa cells stained positively. Similar localization of the AT1 receptor was obtained using the three tissue fixation methods, although the intensity of vascular and glomerular staining was highest in Bouin-fixed tissues. The present study demonstrates that the AT1 receptor is more widely distributed along the nephron than previously described and includes renal vascular smooth muscle and proximal and distal epithelial sites.

Cardiovascular research support by the American Heart Association in Louisiana

The American Heart Association (AHA) was founded in 1924 by a group of physician-scientists to promote the exchange of research ideas in an era when the treatment of heart disease was extremely frustrating. The organization has evolved to include education and community service in its mission, but the support and promotion of quality research has remained at the AHA's core. Research support by the AHA has been responsible for major advances in cardiovascular medicine, including the development of diuretics, pacemakers, artificial heart valves, defibrillators, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, hypercholesterolemia therapy, and artificial surfactant. Working to ensure the efficient distribution of funds, the AHA has distributed nearly $1.4 billion in support of quality research for graduate and medical students, post-doctoral fellows, and beginning and established investigators. Such support has assisted in the career development of four Nobel Prize winners. While cardiovascular disease remains America's leading cause of death, the activities of the AHA continue to support advances in its diagnosis and treatment.

Pressure natriuresis and renal medullary blood flow in dogs

In the present study, we evaluated the effects of changes in arterial pressure on regional renal blood flows and sodium excretion in anesthetized dogs during control conditions and after 5% volume expansion with isotonic saline. Medullary and cortical blood flow responses were determined with laser-Doppler needle flow probes inserted into the midmedullary and midcortical regions, and whole-kidney blood flow was assessed with an electromagnetic flow probe. Volume expansion in six dogs caused marked increases in urine flow (20.2 +/- 5.5 to 82.5 +/- 22.7 microL.min-1.g-1) and sodium excretion (3.2 +/- 0.5 to 11.1 +/- 2.7 mumol.min-1.g-1), with slight increases in glomerular filtration rate (0.92 +/- 0.03 to 1.01 +/- 0.02 mL.min-1.g-1) but no significant changes in total renal blood flow (4.7 +/- 0.3 to 5.2 +/- 0.6 mL.min-1.g-1), medullary blood flow (+6 +/- 9%), or cortical blood flow (+12 +/- 10%). During stepwise reductions in renal arterial pressure (150 to 75 mm Hg) elicited with a renal arterial occluder, both before and after volume expansion, medullary, cortical, and total renal blood flows as well as glomerular filtration rate exhibited efficient autoregulation, with slopes not significantly different from zero over this range of arterial pressure. Ther were marked increases in the slopes of the relationships between arterial pressure and urine flow (0.18 +/- 0.05 to 0.78 +/- 0.27 microL.min-1.g-1.mm Hg-1) as well as sodium excretion (0.03 +/- 0.004 to 0.10 +/- 0.03 mumol.min-1.g-1.mm Hg-1) during volume expansion. These data demonstrate that medullary blood flow is efficiently autoregulated in dogs during control and volume-expanded states and indicate that the mechanism responsible for the arterial pressure-induced changes in sodium excretion does not depend on coincident alterations in medullary blood flow.

Renal responses to AT1 blockade in angiotensin II-induced hypertensive rats

Previous studies have shown that uninephrectomized rats infused chronically with low doses of angiotensin II (Ang II) develop progressive hypertension that is prevented by coadministration of losartan in the drinking water. The present study was performed to contrast the effects of chronic and acute losartan treatment in reversing the Ang II-mediated actions on arterial pressure and renal function. Ang II was infused subcutaneously via osmotic minipumps (40 ng/min) for 13 days in two groups (N = 10 and N = 6); one group also received losartan in the drinking water (30 mg/kg.day) throughout this period. Untreated rats (N = 6) and rats (N = 6) receiving only losartan served as control groups. Ang II-infused rats had higher mean arterial pressures (153 +/- 7 versus 107 +/- 3 mm Hg) and lower GFR (0.7 +/- 0.04 versus 0.98 +/- 0.06 mL/min.g) than Ang II-infused rats receiving losartan chronically. The Ang II-infused rats responded to acute doses of losartan (10 mg/kg) with progressive reductions in arterial pressure and significant increases in cortical blood flow (34 +/- 12% increase), renal plasma flow, GFR, and sodium excretion; however, the increases in renal blood flow and GFR were not sustained as systemic arterial pressure decreased. Because Ang II-infused rats receiving losartan chronically still exhibited decreases in RBF in response to a bolus dose of Ang II, further studies evaluated the effects of acute losartan treatment in rats treated chronically with losartan. Although arterial pressure decreased only slightly, demonstrating adequate systemic vascular blockade, there were still substantial and sustained increases in renal plasma flow, cortical blood flow (20 +/- 4% increase), GFR, and sodium excretion. In summary, the modest responses to acute losartan in Ang II-infused rats indicate that chronic Ang II infusions lead to alterations in renal function that are only partially reversible by acute losartan treatment. In contrast, chronic treatment with losartan prevents the Ang II-induced decrease in GFR. The renal responses to acute losartan in the Ang II-infused rats treated chronically with losartan suggest that substantive intrarenal actions of Ang II can be maintained even when the systemic vascular AT1 receptors are effectively blocked.

Role of renal nerves in afferent arteriolar reactivity in angiotensin-induced hypertension

The objective of this study was to determine the contribution of renal nerves to the enhanced afferent arteriolar reactivity observed in angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced hypertension. Uninephrectomized Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: sham rats, renal-denervated rats, Ang II-infused (at 40 ng/min for 13 days) rats, and Ang II-infused+renal-denervated rats. With the use of an implanted arterial catheter, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was monitored in conscious rats. Ang II infusion resulted in a progressive increase in MAP from 98 +/- 1 (day 0) to 166 +/- 7 mm Hg (day 13). This increase in MAP was attenuated in denervated rats and averaged 136 +/- 3 mm Hg on day 13. Kidneys were harvested on day 13 for microcirculatory experiments or measurement of intrarenal Ang II levels. Basal afferent arteriolar diameter was similar in all groups, and group averages ranged from 19.6 to 20.7 microns. Chronic Ang II infusion increased intrarenal Ang II levels. Renal denervation did not alter this effect. Increasing perfusion pressure from 100 to 160 mm Hg reduced afferent arteriolar diameter significantly by 11.2 +/- 0.6% in the sham group and by a similar degree in the remaining three groups. Superfusion with Ang II (10 nmol/L) reduced afferent arteriolar diameter by 34.3 +/- 2.0% in the sham group. This response was enhanced in Ang II-infused (62.3 +/- 3.4%) but not in renal-denervated or Ang II-infused+renal-denervated rats. Additionally, the enhanced afferent arteriolar reactivity to Ang II was not influenced by adrenergic receptor blockade. The afferent arteriolar response to norepinephrine was enhanced in renal-denervated, Ang II-infused, and Ang II-infused+renal-denervated rats compared with sham controls. Administration of the calcium ionophore A23187 decreased afferent arteriolar diameter similarly in all four groups. These results indicate that renal nerves contribute to the development of hypertension and to the enhanced afferent arteriolar responsiveness to Ang II elicited by chronic Ang II infusion.

Renal cortical and medullary microvascular blood flow autoregulation in rat

Previous studies have demonstrated the critical role of the afferent arteriole in autoregulation of nephron blood flow in response to changes in perfusion pressure. The present study focused on the responses of postglomerular vascular segments to alterations in renal arterial pressure. Afferent arterioles, efferent arterioles and outer medullary descending vasa recta of juxtamedullary nephrons were visualized using the in vitro blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron technique. Simultaneous measurements of inside vessel diameter and centerline erythrocyte velocity were made in order to determine single vessel blood flow. Blood flow measured in afferent arterioles (N = 13) displayed efficient autoregulation of blood flow and afferent arterioles responded actively with decreases in arteriolar diameter during stepwise elevations of renal perfusion pressure from 100 to 150 mm Hg. Similarly, blood flow measured at efferent arterioles (N = 9) exhibited autoregulation during increases in renal perfusion pressure. However, efferent arteriolar diameters were not altered during increases in perfusion pressure. During superfusion with the calcium channel blocker, diltiazem (10 microM), which primarily dilates afferent arterioles, efferent arteriolar blood flow (N = 7) increased and responded to changes in perfusion pressure. Nevertheless, efferent arteriolar diameter remained unchanged and did not respond to increases in perfusion pressure. Outer medullary descending vasa recta (N = 7) diameter, centerline erythrocyte velocity and calculated blood flow were also not significantly altered following stepwise increases in pressure to 125 and 150 mm Hg. These data demonstrate effective autoregulation of postglomerular blood flow, measured at efferent arterioles and at outer medullary descending vasa recta, over a perfusion pressure range of 100 to 150 mm Hg. There was no dissociation of arteriolar and outer medullary descending vasa recta blood flow responses to increases in renal perfusion pressure indicative of efficient autoregulation in both cortical and medullary postglomerular circulations of the rat.

Actions of epoxygenase metabolites on the preglomerular vasculature

Epoxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid are produced by the kidney and have been implicated in the control of renal blood flow. This study examined the preglomerular actions of various epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EET). By use of the in vitro blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron preparation, interlobular and afferent arteriolar diameter responses to 5,6-EET, 8,9-EET, 11,12-EET, and 14,15-EET were determined. Diameters of interlobular and afferent arterioles preconstricted with 0.5 microM norepinephrine averaged 24 +/- 1 microns (N = 27) and 17 +/- 1 microns (N = 32), respectively, at a renal perfusion pressure of 100 mm Hg. Superfusion with 0.01 to 100 nM 11,12-EET caused graded increases in diameters of the interlobular and afferent arterioles. At a dose of 100 nM, 11,12-EET increased the diameters of the interlobular and afferent arterioles by 18 +/- 2% (N = 10) and 20 +/- 3% (N = 9), respectively. The vasodilatory response to 11,12-EET was stereoselective because 11,12(R,S)-EET but not 11,12(S,R)-EET increased the diameters of the interlobular and afferent arterioles. 14,15-EET had a much smaller effect and increased the diameters of the these vessels by 10%; 8,9-EET did not significantly affect vascular diameters. In contrast, 5,6-EET constricted the interlobular and afferent arterioles by 16 +/- 3% (N = 6) and 21 +/- 3% (N = 7), respectively. The corresponding diols, 5,6-DIHETE and 11,12-DIHETE, had no effect on diameters of the interlobular and afferent arterioles at concentrations up to 1 microM. The vasodilatory response to 11,12-EET was not affected by removal of the endothelium or by inhibition of cyclooxygenase with indomethacin. In contrast, the vasoconstrictor response to 5,6-EET was abolished by both removal of the endothelium or cyclooxygenase inhibition. The thromboxane/ enderoperoxide receptor inhibitor, SQ 29,548, resulted in a 60% attenuation of the afferent arteriolar vasconstriction to 5,6-EET. These results indicate that the preglomerular vasoconstriction to 5,6-EET is cyclooxygenase dependent and requires an intact endothelium, whereas the vasodilation to 11,12-EET is stereoselective and is the result of direct action of the epoxide on the preglomerular vascular smooth muscle.

Pressure-mediated vasoconstriction of juxtamedullary afferent arterioles involves P2-purinoceptor activation

This study was conducted to examine the hypothesis that P2 purinoceptors contribute to pressure-induced autoregulatory adjustments of afferent arteriolar caliber. Experiments were performed in vitro using the blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron technique. Afferent arteriolar diameter averaged 19.2 +/- 0.6 microns (n = 51) at control perfusion pressure of 100 mmHg and decreased when perfusion pressure was increased. Desensitization of P2 purinoceptors abolished the alpha, beta-methylene ATP-mediated afferent vasoconstriction and prevented pressure-dependent autoregulatory adjustments in afferent diameter. P2-purinoceptor saturation significantly decreased afferent caliber and attenuated pressure-induced autoregulatory responses. To block P2 receptors, afferent arterioles were treated with the P2-purinoceptor antagonists, pyridoxal-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid or suramin. P2-receptor blockade prevented the afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction evoked by increasing perfusion pressure from 100 to 130 and 160 mmHg. These data demonstrate that inhibition of P2 purinoceptor-dependent responses through receptor desensitization, receptor saturation, or purinoceptor blockade impairs normal autoregulatory behavior in rat juxtamedullary afferent arterioles. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that P2 purinoceptors participate in mediating autoregulatory adjustments in afferent arteriolar diameter.

Receptor-mediated intrarenal angiotensin II augmentation in angiotensin II-infused rats

Chronic low-dose angiotensin II (Ang II) infusion for 13 days mimics two-kidney, one clip Goldblatt hypertension and increase intrarenal Ang II levels. We performed studies to determine the time course for the enhancement of intrarenal Ang II levels and whether the increased intrarenal Ang II is a tissue-specific event and requires a receptor-mediated step. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were uninephrectomized, and either vehicle or Ang II (40 ng/min) was infused via a subcutaneous osmotic minipump. Plasma and renal Ang II levels were measured 3, 7, 10, and 13 days after minipump implantation. Compared with controls (126 +/- 2 mm Hg), systolic pressure in Ang II-infused rats exhibited a detectable increase by day 6 (146 +/- 2 mm Hg) and continued to increase to 189 +/- 5 mm Hg by day 12. Plasma Ang II levels were elevated by day 3, whereas intrarenal Ang II levels were not significantly elevated until 10 days of Ang II infusion. Renal injury characterized by focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis was evident after 13 days of Ang II infusion. Losartan (30 mg/kg per day) prevented the development of hypertension in the Ang II-infused rats for the duration of the infusion period (125 +/- 1 mm Hg) and reduced the degree of glomerular injury. Plasma renin activity was suppressed in the Ang II-infused group but was elevated markedly in both losartan-treated groups. Plasma Ang II levels were elevated in the Ang II-infused rats and were even higher during losartan treatment. Intrarenal Ang II levels were enhanced significantly (354 +/- 60 versus 164 +/- 23 fmol/g) in the Ang II-infused rats. However, losartan treatment prevented the augmentation of intrarenal Ang II caused by Ang II infusion. Heart and adrenal Ang II levels were not significantly increased in the Ang II-infused rats but were significantly elevated during losartan treatment. These results suggest that the tissue-specific elevations of intrarenal Ang II levels caused by chronic Ang II infusion are mediated by angiotensin type 1 receptor activation, which leads to either receptor-mediated internalization of Ang II, enhancement of intrarenal Ang II formation, or both.

Afferent arteriolar response to arachidonic acid: involvement of metabolic pathways

Arachidonic acid (AA) metabolites have been implicated in the control of renal hemodynamics, but the nature of the metabolites produced by renal cells when AA is released has remained uncertain. Experiments were performed using the in vitro perfused juxtamedullary nephron preparation to examine the effects of perfusion and superfusion of AA on the renal microvasculature. Extraluminal exposure of the vessels by superfusion with solutions containing 0.1, 1.0, and 10 microM AA decreased afferent arteriolar diameter by 8 +/- 2, 16 +/- 3, and 20 +/- 3%, respectively. The same doses of AA added to the perfusate produced a similar afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction. Inhibition of the major enzymatic pathways unmasked differential responses of AA that were dependent on the direction from which the vasculature was exposed to AA. 17-Octadecynoic acid (1 microM), an inhibitor of the cytochrome P-450 pathway, eliminated the vasoconstrictor response to superfused AA but had little effect on the response to perfused AA. Lipoxygenase inhibition with baicalein (0.5 microM) did not alter the afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction during superfusion with AA but did attenuate the vasoconstrictor response to perfused AA by 34%. Cyclooxygenase inhibition with 10 microM indomethacin reduced the afferent arteriolar response to superfusion with 10 microM AA by 46%, but the responses to perfusion with AA were reversed, leading to the unmasking of a 17% afferent arteriolar dilation. The AA-induced vasorelaxation observed during cyclooxygenase inhibition was prevented by the subsequent addition of a P-450 inhibitor. Additionally, after endothelial removal with 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate (CHAPS), the vasodilatory response reverted to a vasoconstriction. The results of this study demonstrate that in the rat, AA metabolites exert predominant actions on afferent arterioles, but differential responses are mediated via different enzymatic pathways depending on the origin of AA. Increased AA availability of intraluminal origin leads to production of cyclooxygenase-derived vasoconstrictor metabolites and also to endothelial-derived cytochrome P-450 vasodilatory metabolites. In contrast, increased AA availability of interstitial origin leads to production of vasoconstrictor cytochrome P-450 metabolites.

Extracellular ATP increases cytosolic calcium in cultured rat renal arterial smooth muscle cells

1. Experiments were conducted on cultured renal arterial smooth muscle cells to determine the ability of extracellular ATP to alter cytosolic calcium concentration and to determine the mechanisms by which this effect occurs. 2. ATP (100 mumol/L) caused the fluorescence ratio of fura-2 to increase from a control value of 1.06 +/- 0.05 to 2.06 +/- 0.13 (P < 0.01) before stabilizing at a sustained level of 1.35 +/- 0.04 (n = 8; P < 0.05). 3. Removal of extracellular calcium from the bathing medium resulted in an attenuation of the initial response to 100 mumol/L ATP with cell fluorescence increasing from 1.16 +/- 0.18 to 1.44 +/- 0.18 ratio units (n = 5). Furthermore, the initial increase in fluorescence ratio rapidly declined to 1.02 +/- 0.06, indicating that an influx of extracellular calcium is required to sustain the increase in fura-2 fluorescence. 4. Depletion of intracellular calcium pools with thapsigargin prevented the increase in fura-2 fluorescence evoked by ATP. 5. These data suggest that ATP-mediated increases in cytosolic calcium in cultured renal arterial smooth muscle cells involve calcium release from the thapsigargin-sensitive, intracellular pool in conjunction with calcium influx from the extracellular medium.

Medullary blood flow responses to changes in arterial pressure in canine kidney

Although it is well recognized that whole kidney and cortical blood flow exhibit efficient autoregulation in response to alterations in renal arterial pressure (RAP), the autoregulatory behavior of medullary blood flow (MBF) has remained uncertain. We have evaluated MBF responses to stepwise reductions in RAP for both short-term (2 min, n = 6) and longer periods (15 min, n = 7) using single-fiber laser-Doppler flowmetry with needle probes inserted into the mid-medullary region in denervated kidneys of 13 anesthetized dogs. The changes in cortical blood flow (CBF) were assessed with either a surface probe or a needle probe inserted into the cortex. Control total renal blood flow (RBF), assessed by electromagnetic flow probe in these dogs, was 5.2 +/- 0.3 ml.min-1.g-1, and glomerular filtration rate was 0.97 +/- 0.05 ml.min-1.g-1 (n = 7). RBF, MBF, and CBF all exhibited efficient autoregulatory behavior during changes in RAP from 150 to 75 mmHg. The slopes of RAP vs. RBF, CBF, as well as MBF, were not significantly different from zero within this range of RAP. Below RAP of 75 mmHg, all indexes of blood flow showed linear decreases with reductions in pressure. The data indicate that blood flow in the renal medulla of dogs exhibits efficient autoregulatory behavior, similar to that in the cortex.

Paracrine regulation of the renal microcirculation

There has been an explosive growth of interest in the multiple interacting paracrine systems that influence renal microvascular function. This review first discusses the membrane activation mechanisms for renal vascular control. Evidence is provided that there are differential activating mechanisms regulating pre- and postglomerular arteriolar vascular smooth muscle cells. The next section deals with the critical role of the endothelium in the control of renal vascular function and covers the recent findings related to the role of nitric oxide and other endothelial-derived factors. This section is followed by an analysis of the roles of vasoactive paracrine systems that have their origin from adjoining tubular structures. The interplay of signals between the epithelial cells and the vascular network to provide feedback regulation of renal hemodynamics is developed. Because of their well-recognized contributions to the regulation of renal microvascular function, three major paracrine systems are discussed in separate sections. Recent findings related to the role of intrarenally formed angiotensin II and the prominence of the AT1 receptors are described. The possible contribution of purinergic compounds is then discussed. Recognition of the emerging role of extracellular ATP operating via P2 receptors as well as the more recognized functions of the P1 receptors provides fertile ground for further studies. In the next section, the family of vasoactive arachidonic acid metabolites is described. Possibilities for a myriad of interacting functions operating both directly on vascular smooth muscle cells and indirectly via influences on endothelial and epithelial cells are discussed. Particular attention is given to the more recent developments related to hemodynamic actions of the cytochrome P-450 metabolites. The final section discusses unique mechanisms that may be responsible for differential regulation of medullary blood flow by locally formed paracrine agents. Several sections provide perspectives on the complex interactions among the multiple mechanisms responsible for paracrine regulation of the renal microcirculation. This plurality of regulatory interactions highlights the need for experimental strategies that include integrative approaches that allow manifestation of indirect as well as direct influences of these paracrine systems on renal microvascular function.

Renal accumulation of circulating angiotensin II in angiotensin II-infused rats

Previous studies have demonstrated that low-dose angiotensin II (Ang II) infusion for 14 days mimics two-kidney, one clip Goldblatt hypertension and increases intrarenal Ang II levels. The objective of the present study was to determine whether the augmented intrarenal Ang II is due to intrarenal accumulation of the infused Ang II and/or to an increase in intrarenal formation of endogenous Ang II. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were uninephrectomized and divided into three groups: control (N=6), those infused with [Ile5]Ang II (endogenous form) (N=6), and those infused with [Val5]Ang II (n=8). [Ile5]Ang II or [Val5]Ang II was infused at 40 ng/min via an osmotic minipump implanted subcutaneously. By day 12, systolic blood pressure increased significantly in both [Val5]Ang II-infused rats (197 +/- 7 mm Hg) and [Ile5]Ang II-infused rats (173 +/- 3 mm Hg). Blood and kidney samples were harvested, subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography to separate [Val5]Ang II from [Ile5]Ang II, and then measured by radioimmunoassay. Plasma renin activity was markedly suppressed in both [Ile5]Ang II- and [Val5]Ang II-infused rats. Plasma Ang II levels were elevated in rats infused with both [Ile5]Ang II (121 +/- 24 fmol/mL) and [Val5]Ang II (119 +/- 14 fmol/mL) compared with controls (69 +/- 15 fmol/mL). Both [Ile5]Ang II- and [Val5]Ang II-infused rats exhibited an enhancement of total intrarenal Ang II. Only [Ile5]Ang II (358 +/- 53 fmol/g) was detected in the kidneys of rats infused with -Ile5-Ang II. In [Val5]Ang II-infused rats, a significant portion of total renal Ang II (371 +/- 57 fmol/g) was in the form of [Val5]Ang II (256 +/- 44 fmol/g). Renal [Ile5]Ang II levels were maintained in the [Val5]Ang II-infused rats (116 +/- 15 fmol/g) compared with control rats (116 +/- 11 fmol/g) despite marked suppression of renin release. These results support the hypothesis that infused circulating ANG II is bound to receptor or taken up intrarenally in a manner that protects against degradation.