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Burboa PC, Gaete PS, Shu P, Araujo PA, Beuve AV, Durán WN, Contreras JE, Lillo MA. Endothelial TRPV4/Cx43 Signaling Complex Regulates Vasomotor Tone in Resistance Arteries. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.25.604930. [PMID: 39091840 PMCID: PMC11291137 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.25.604930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
S-nitrosylation of Cx43 gap junction channels critically regulates communication between smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells. This posttranslational modification also induces the opening of undocked Cx43 hemichannels. However, its specific impact on vasomotor regulation remains unclear. Considering the role of endothelial TRPV4 channel activation in promoting vasodilation through nitric oxide (NO) production, we investigated the direct modulation of endothelial Cx43 hemichannels by TRPV4 channel activation. Using the proximity ligation assay, we identify that Cx43 and TRPV4 are found in close proximity in the endothelium of resistance arteries. In primary endothelial cell cultures from resistance arteries (ECs), GSK-induced TRPV4 activation enhances eNOS activity, increases NO production, and opens Cx43 hemichannels via direct S-nitrosylation. Notably, the elevated intracellular Ca 2+ levels caused by TRPV4 activation were reduced by blocking Cx43 hemichannels. In ex vivo mesenteric arteries, inhibiting Cx43 hemichannels reduced endothelial hyperpolarization without affecting NO production in ECs, underscoring a critical role of TRPV4/Cx43 signaling in endothelial electrical behavior. We perturbed the proximity of Cx43/TRPV4 by disrupting lipid rafts in ECs using β-cyclodextrin. Under these conditions, hemichannel activity, Ca 2+ influx, and endothelial hyperpolarization were blunted upon GSK stimulation. Intravital microscopy of mesenteric arterioles in vivo further demonstrated that inhibiting Cx43 hemichannels activity, NO production and disrupting endothelial integrity reduce TRPV4-induced relaxation. These findings underscore a new pivotal role of Cx43 hemichannel associated with TRPV4 signaling pathway in modulating endothelial electrical behavior and vasomotor tone regulation.
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Liu G, Liu J, Kong X, Xiong WJ, Jiang R. Effect of hypoandrogenism on expression of transient receptor potential vanilloid channels in rat penile corpus cavernosum and erectile function. J Sex Med 2023; 20:1153-1160. [PMID: 37490314 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypoandrogenism is a cause of erectile dysfunction (ED). Vascular smooth muscle cell contraction and relaxation are regulated by TRPV1-4 channels. However, the influence of hypoandrogenism on TRPV1-4 and its relationship with erectile function remain unclear. AIM To reveal whether hypoandrogenism affects erectile function by influencing TRPV1-4 expression in the corpus cavernosum of rats. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats (N = 36) aged 8 weeks were assigned to 6 groups at random (n = 6): sham operation, castrated, castrated + testosterone replacement, sham operation + transfection, castrated + transfection, and castrated + empty transfection. Four weeks after castration, 20 μL of lentiviral vector (1 × 108 TU/mL) carrying the TRPV4 gene was injected into the penile cavernous tissue of the transfection groups. One week after transfection, the maximum intracavernous pressure (ICPmax)/mean arterial pressure (MAP) and the content of TRPV1-4, phosphorylated eNOS (p-eNOS)/eNOS, and nitric oxide (NO) in penile cavernous tissue of each group were measured. OUTCOMES Under low androgen conditions, TRPV4 expression in endothelial cells in the rat penile cavernosum was sharply reduced, resulting in a decrease in p-eNOS/eNOS and NO content, which could inhibit erectile function. RESULTS In rat penile cavernous tissue, TRPV1-4 was expressed in the cell membranes of endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. The ICPmax/MAP and the content of TRPV4, p-eNOS/eNOS, and NO end product nitrite level in rat penile cavernous tissue was markedly reduced in the castrated group as compared with the sham group (P < .05). The ICPmax/MAP and the content of TRPV4, p-eNOS/eNOS, and NO end product nitrite level in rat penile cavernous tissue were markedly improved in the castrated + transfection group vs the castrated group (P < .01). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Upregulation of TRPV4 expression in penile cavernosum tissue might be a viable therapeutic for ED caused by hypoandrogenism. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The specific mechanism of TRPV4 in ED needs to be further verified by androgen receptor or TRPV4 gene knockout experiments. CONCLUSION Hypoandrogenism may cause ED by reducing the expression of TRPV4 in rat penile cavernous tissue. Upregulation of TRPV4 expression in penile cavernous tissue can increase the ratio of p-eNOS/eNOS and NO levels and ameliorate the erectile function of castrated rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Liu
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Xiangjun Kong
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Wen-Ju Xiong
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Rui Jiang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
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Ca 2+-Activated K + Channels and the Regulation of the Uteroplacental Circulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021349. [PMID: 36674858 PMCID: PMC9867535 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Adequate uteroplacental blood supply is essential for the development and growth of the placenta and fetus during pregnancy. Aberrant uteroplacental perfusion is associated with pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction (FGR), and gestational diabetes. The regulation of uteroplacental blood flow is thus vital to the well-being of the mother and fetus. Ca2+-activated K+ (KCa) channels of small, intermediate, and large conductance participate in setting and regulating the resting membrane potential of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) and play a critical role in controlling vascular tone and blood pressure. KCa channels are important mediators of estrogen/pregnancy-induced adaptive changes in the uteroplacental circulation. Activation of the channels hyperpolarizes uteroplacental VSMCs/ECs, leading to attenuated vascular tone, blunted vasopressor responses, and increased uteroplacental blood flow. However, the regulation of uteroplacental vascular function by KCa channels is compromised in pregnancy complications. This review intends to provide a comprehensive overview of roles of KCa channels in the regulation of the uteroplacental circulation under physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
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Schubert R, Gaynullina D, Shvetsova A, Tarasova OS. Myography of isolated blood vessels: Considerations for experimental design and combination with supplementary techniques. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1176748. [PMID: 37168231 PMCID: PMC10165122 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1176748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The study of the mechanisms of regulation of vascular tone is an urgent task of modern science, since diseases of the cardiovascular system remain the main cause of reduction in the quality of life and mortality of the population. Myography (isometric and isobaric) of isolated blood vessels is one of the most physiologically relevant approaches to study the function of cells in the vessel wall. On the one hand, cell-cell interactions as well as mechanical stretch of the vessel wall remain preserved in myography studies, in contrast to studies on isolated cells, e.g., cell culture. On the other hand, in vitro studies in isolated vessels allow control of numerous parameters that are difficult to control in vivo. The aim of this review was to 1) discuss the specifics of experimental design and interpretation of data obtained by myography and 2) highlight the importance of the combined use of myography with various complementary techniques necessary for a deep understanding of vascular physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudolf Schubert
- Physiology, Institute of Theoretical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Rudolf Schubert,
| | - Dina Gaynullina
- Faculty of Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Olga S. Tarasova
- Faculty of Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- State Research Center of the Russian Federation, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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Nam YW, Pala R, El-Sayed NS, Larin-Henriquez D, Amirrad F, Yang G, Rahman MA, Orfali R, Downey M, Parang K, Nauli SM, Zhang M. Subtype-Selective Positive Modulation of K Ca2.3 Channels Increases Cilia Length. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:2344-2354. [PMID: 35947779 PMCID: PMC9396613 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Small-conductance Ca2+-activated potassium
(KCa2.x) channels are gated exclusively by intracellular
Ca2+. The activation of KCa2.3 channels induces
hyperpolarization,
which augments Ca2+ signaling in endothelial cells. Cilia
are specialized Ca2+ signaling compartments. Here, we identified
compound 4 that potentiates human KCa2.3 channels
selectively. The subtype selectivity of compound 4 for
human KCa2.3 over rat KCa2.2a channels relies
on an isoleucine residue in the HA/HB helices. Positive modulation
of KCa2.3 channels by compound 4 increased
flow-induced Ca2+ signaling and cilia length, while negative
modulation by AP14145 reduced flow-induced Ca2+ signaling
and cilia length. These findings were corroborated by the increased
cilia length due to the expression of Ca2+-hypersensitive
KCa2.3_G351D mutant channels and the reduced cilia length
resulting from the expression of Ca2+-hyposensitive KCa2.3_I438N channels. Collectively, we were able to associate
functions of KCa2.3 channels and cilia, two crucial components
in the flow-induced Ca2+ signaling of endothelial cells,
with potential implications in vasodilation and ciliopathic hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Woo Nam
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Rajasekharreddy Pala
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Naglaa Salem El-Sayed
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Denisse Larin-Henriquez
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Farideh Amirrad
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Grace Yang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Mohammad Asikur Rahman
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Razan Orfali
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Myles Downey
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Keykavous Parang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Surya M Nauli
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Miao Zhang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
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Mariacarmela G, Milena E, Sveinbjorn G, Daniel H, Maurizio M. Placental protein 13 dilation of pregnant rat uterine vein is endothelium dependent and involves nitric oxide/calcium activated potassium channels signals. Placenta 2022; 126:233-238. [PMID: 35872513 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Accumulating evidence demonstrates the importance of the galectin protein Placental Protein 13 (PP13) in predicting Preeclampsia (PE), a gestational disorder that has no cure and is associated with a compromised uterine vascular adaptation to pregnancy. Uterine vasculature undergoes significant remodeling (growth in length and in circumference) during normal pregnancy to accommodate the increased blood volume to the feto-placental unit. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the role of PP13 on the uterine veins (UVs). METHODS PP13 was tested on UVs isolated from rat by using a pressurized myograph. The PP13 investigation was carried out in the presence of: a) nitric oxide synthases inhibitors (l-NAME + L-NNA, 2 x 10-4 M); b) small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (SKca) inhibitor (Apamin, 10-7 M); c) intermediate conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (IKca) inhibitor (TRAM-34, 10-5 M); d) big conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BKca) inhibitor (Paxilline, 10-5 M) and in the absence of endothelium. RESULTS Our results showed that in late pregnancy, PP13 induced a significant dilation of UVs that is endothelium dependent. Further, PP13-dilation is mediated by the SKca - NO - BKca pathway. DISCUSSION For the first time, this study provides evidence that in pregnancy, the UVs are dilated by PP13 and suggests SKCa as a potential target for treatments aimed at restoring pregnancy complication associated with deficiency in uterine adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gatto Mariacarmela
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Esposito Milena
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Gizurarson Sveinbjorn
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Iceland, Hofsvallagata 53, 107, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Henrion Daniel
- MitoVasc Institute, UMR CNRS 6015-INSERM U1083, University of Angers, France
| | - Mandalà Maurizio
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy.
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Lobov GI, Ivanova GT. Regulation of Arterial Tone in Rats
Fed a Long-Term High-Salt Diet. J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s0022093021010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Regulation of the Mitochondrial BK Ca Channel by the Citrus Flavonoid Naringenin as a Potential Means of Preventing Cell Damage. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25133010. [PMID: 32630135 PMCID: PMC7412269 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25133010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Naringenin, a flavanone obtained from citrus fruits and present in many traditional Chinese herbal medicines, has been shown to have various beneficial effects on cells both in vitro and in vivo. Although the antioxidant activity of naringenin has long been believed to be crucial for its effects on cells, mitochondrial pathways (including mitochondrial ion channels) are emerging as potential targets for the specific pharmacological action of naringenin in cardioprotective strategies. In the present study, we describe interactions between the mitochondrial large-conductance calcium-regulated potassium channel (mitoBKCa channel) and naringenin. Using the patch-clamp method, we showed that 10 µM naringenin activated the mitoBKCa channel present in endothelial cells. In the presence of 30 µM Ca2+, the increase in the mitoBKCa channel probability of opening from approximately 0.25 to 0.50 at −40 mV was observed. In addition, regulation of the mitoBKCa channel by naringenin was dependent on the concentration of calcium ions. To confirm our data, physiological studies on the mitochondria were performed. An increase in oxygen consumption and a decrease in membrane potential was observed after naringenin treatment. In addition, contributions of the mitoBKCa channel to apoptosis and necrosis were investigated. Naringenin protected cells against damage induced by tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in combination with cycloheximide. In this study, we demonstrated that the flavonoid naringenin can activate the mitoBKCa channel present in the inner mitochondrial membrane of endothelial cells. Our studies describing the regulation of the mitoBKCa channel by this natural, plant-derived substance may help to elucidate flavonoid-induced cytoprotective mechanisms.
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Lemmey HAL, Garland CJ, Dora KA. Intrinsic regulation of microvascular tone by myoendothelial feedback circuits. CURRENT TOPICS IN MEMBRANES 2020; 85:327-355. [PMID: 32402644 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctm.2020.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The endothelium is an important regulator of arterial vascular tone, acting to release nitric oxide (NO) and open Ca2+-activated K+ (KCa) channels to relax vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). While agonists acting at endothelial cell (EC) receptors are widely used to assess the ability of the endothelium to reduce vascular tone, the intrinsic EC-dependent mechanisms are less well characterized. In small resistance arteries and arterioles, the presence of heterocellular gap junctions termed myoendothelial gap junctions (MEGJs) allows the passage of not only current, but small molecules including Ca2+ and inositol trisphosphate (IP3). When stimulated to contract, the increase in VSM Ca2+ and IP3 can therefore potentially pass through MEGJs to activate adjacent ECs. This activation releases NO and opens KCa channels, which act to limit contraction. This myoendothelial feedback (MEF) is amplified by EC Ca2+ influx and release pathways, and is dynamically modulated by processes regulating gap junction conductance. There is a remarkable localization of key signaling and regulatory proteins within the EC projection toward VSM, and the intrinsic EC-dependent signaling pathways occurring with this highly specialized microdomain are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamish A L Lemmey
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Kim A Dora
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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Moccia F, Negri S, Faris P, Berra-Romani R. Targeting the Endothelial Ca2+ Toolkit to Rescue Endothelial Dysfunction in Obesity Associated-Hypertension. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:240-257. [PMID: 31486745 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190905142135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is a major cardiovascular risk factor which dramatically impairs endothelium- dependent vasodilation and leads to hypertension and vascular damage. The impairment of the vasomotor response to extracellular autacoids, e.g., acetylcholine, mainly depends on the reduced Nitric Oxide (NO) bioavailability, which hampers vasorelaxation in large conduit arteries. In addition, obesity may affect Endothelium-Dependent Hyperpolarization (EDH), which drives vasorelaxation in small resistance arteries and arterioles. Of note, endothelial Ca2+ signals drive NO release and trigger EDH. METHODS A structured search of bibliographic databases was carried out to retrieve the most influential, recent articles on the impairment of vasorelaxation in animal models of obesity, including obese Zucker rats, and on the remodeling of the endothelial Ca2+ toolkit under conditions that mimic obesity. Furthermore, we searched for articles discussing how dietary manipulation could be exploited to rescue Ca2+-dependent vasodilation. RESULTS We found evidence that the endothelial Ca2+ could be severely affected by obese vessels. This rearrangement could contribute to endothelial damage and is likely to be involved in the disruption of vasorelaxant mechanisms. However, several Ca2+-permeable channels, including Vanilloid Transient Receptor Potential (TRPV) 1, 3 and 4 could be stimulated by several food components to stimulate vasorelaxation in obese individuals. CONCLUSION The endothelial Ca2+ toolkit could be targeted to reduce vascular damage and rescue endothelium- dependent vasodilation in obese vessels. This hypothesis remains, however, to be probed on truly obese endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Moccia
- Laboratory of General Physiology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sharon Negri
- Laboratory of General Physiology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Pawan Faris
- Laboratory of General Physiology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberto Berra-Romani
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
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Kloza M, Baranowska-Kuczko M, Toczek M, Kusaczuk M, Sadowska O, Kasacka I, Kozłowska H. Modulation of Cardiovascular Function in Primary Hypertension in Rat by SKA-31, an Activator of KCa2.x and KCa3.1 Channels. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20174118. [PMID: 31450834 PMCID: PMC6747311 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the hemodynamic effects of SKA-31, an activator of the small (KCa2.x) and intermediate (KCa3.1) conductance calcium-activated potassium channels, and to evaluate its influence on endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH)-KCa2.3/KCa3.1 type relaxation in isolated endothelium-intact small mesenteric arteries (sMAs) from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Functional in vivo and in vitro experiments were performed on SHRs or their normotensive controls, Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). SKA-31 (1, 3 and 10 mg/kg) caused a brief decrease in blood pressure and bradycardia in both SHR and WKY rats. In phenylephrine-pre-constricted sMAs of SHRs, SKA-31 (0.01–10 µM)-mediated relaxation was reduced and SKA-31 potentiated acetylcholine-evoked endothelium-dependent relaxation. Endothelium denudation and inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX) by the respective inhibitors l-NAME or indomethacin, attenuated SKA-31-mediated vasorelaxation. The inhibition of KCa3.1, KCa2.3, KIR and Na+/K+-ATPase by TRAM-34, UCL1684, Ba2+ and ouabain, respectively, reduced the potency and efficacy of the EDH-response evoked by SKA-31. The mRNA expression of eNOS, prostacyclin synthase, KCa2.3, KCa3.1 and KIR were decreased, while Na+/K+-ATPase expression was increased. Collectively, SKA-31 promoted hypotension and vasodilatation, potentiated agonist-stimulated vasodilation, and maintained KCa2.3/KCa3.1-EDH-response in sMAs of SHR with downstream signaling that involved KIR and Na+/K+-ATPase channels. In view of the importance of the dysfunction of endothelium-mediated vasodilatation in the mechanism of hypertension, application of activators of KCa2.3/KCa3.1 channels such as SKA-31 seem to be a promising avenue in pharmacotherapy of hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Kloza
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Marta Baranowska-Kuczko
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Marek Toczek
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kusaczuk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Olga Sadowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Irena Kasacka
- Department of Histology and Cytophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Hanna Kozłowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland.
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Khaddaj Mallat R, Mathew John C, Mishra RC, Kendrick DJ, Braun AP. Pharmacological Targeting of KCa Channels to Improve Endothelial Function in the Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20143481. [PMID: 31315169 PMCID: PMC6678254 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20143481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic hypertension is a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease and is often associated with endothelial dysfunction. KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 channels are expressed in the vascular endothelium and contribute to stimulus-evoked vasodilation. We hypothesized that acute treatment with SKA-31, a selective activator of KCa2.x and KCa3.1 channels, would improve endothelium-dependent vasodilation and transiently lower mean arterial pressure (MAP) in male, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Isolated vascular preparations exhibited impaired vasodilation in response to bradykinin (i.e., endothelial dysfunction) compared with Wistar controls, which was associated with decreased bradykinin receptor expression in mesenteric arteries. In contrast, similar levels of endothelial KCa channel expression were observed, and SKA-31 evoked vasodilation was comparable in vascular preparations from both strains. Addition of a low concentration of SKA-31 (i.e., 0.2–0.3 μM) failed to augment bradykinin-induced vasodilation in arteries from SHRs. However, responses to acetylcholine were enhanced. Surprisingly, acute bolus administration of SKA-31 in vivo (30 mg/kg, i.p. injection) modestly elevated MAP compared with vehicle injection. In summary, pharmacological targeting of endothelial KCa channels in SHRs did not readily reverse endothelial dysfunction in situ, or lower MAP in vivo. SHRs thus appear to be less responsive to endothelial KCa channel activators, which may be related to their vascular pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayan Khaddaj Mallat
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Cini Mathew John
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Ramesh C Mishra
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Dylan J Kendrick
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Andrew P Braun
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.
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Simonsen U, Winther AK, Oliván-Viguera A, Comerma-Steffensen S, Köhler R, Bek T. Extracellular l-arginine Enhances Relaxations Induced by Opening of Calcium-Activated SKCa Channels in Porcine Retinal Arteriole. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20082032. [PMID: 31027156 PMCID: PMC6515554 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20082032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated whether the substrate for nitric oxide (NO) production, extracellular l-arginine, contributes to relaxations induced by activating small (SKCa) conductance Ca2+-activated potassium channels. In endothelial cells, acetylcholine increased 3H-l-arginine uptake, while blocking the SKCa and the intermediate (IKCa) conductance Ca2+-activated potassium channels reduced l-arginine uptake. A blocker of the y+ transporter system, l-lysine also blocked 3H-l-arginine uptake. Immunostaining showed co-localization of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), SKCa3, and the cationic amino acid transporter (CAT-1) protein of the y+ transporter system in the endothelium. An opener of SKCa channels, cyclohexyl-[2-(3,5-dimethyl-pyrazol-1-yl)-6-methyl-pyrimidin-4-yl]-amine (CyPPA) induced large currents in endothelial cells, and concentration-dependently relaxed porcine retinal arterioles. In the presence of l-arginine, concentration-response curves for CyPPA were leftward shifted, an effect unaltered in the presence of low sodium, but blocked by l-lysine in the retinal arterioles. Our findings suggest that SKCa channel activity regulates l-arginine uptake through the y+ transporter system, and we propose that in vasculature affected by endothelial dysfunction, l-arginine administration requires the targeting of additional mechanisms such as SKCa channels to restore endothelium-dependent vasodilatation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Anna K Winther
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Aida Oliván-Viguera
- BESICoS group, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research, IIS-Aragón, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Simon Comerma-Steffensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Ralf Köhler
- Aragón Agency for Research and Development (ARAID) at IACS and IIS Aragón, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Toke Bek
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
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Comerma-Steffensen S, Risso A, Ascanio-Evanoff E, Zerpa H. Endothelium-dependent relaxation mechanisms involve nitric oxide and prostanoids in the isolated bovine digital vein. J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2019; 42:361-367. [PMID: 30888081 DOI: 10.1111/jvp.12758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction contributes to the development of ungulate's laminitis. Although extensively studied in equines, the endothelial function is not fully examined in bovine digital veins (BDVs). BDVs were studied under isometric conditions to describe the acetylcholine (ACh) endothelium-dependent relaxation. Concentration-response curves were constructed to phenylephrine, ACh, and sodium nitroprusside (SNP). Relaxation responses were evaluated using either phenylephrine or depolarizing high-potassium Krebs solution (DKS) as precontraction agents. Endothelium denudation and incubation with L-NAME (300 μM), indomethacin (10 μM) or both were used to explore endothelial-mediated mechanisms. Endothelium denudation did not modify phenylephrine and SNP responses, however, significantly (p < 0.05) converted a relaxation (63.2 ± 5%) response to ACh into a contraction (30.3±9%). The ACh-evoked relaxation was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in the presence of indomethacin (37.5 ± 6%) and L-NAME (6.40 ± 2%). The presence of both inhibitors abolished the ACh-evoked relaxation. Although DKS caused a higher precontraction than phenylephrine, ACh-evoked relaxation (22.4 ± 3.4%) was still observed and was reduced by the combination of inhibitors (7.0 ± 1.0%). The ACh endothelium-dependent relaxation in BDVs is essentially mediated by nitric oxide and endothelium-derived prostanoids. The BDV endothelium function is a dynamic component in the control of the bovine digital blood flow, particularly under endothelial dysfunction conditions when venoconstriction might lead to postcapillary resistance increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Comerma-Steffensen
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Department of Biomedical Science, Central University of Venezuela, Maracay, Venezuela.,Pharmacology, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Arnaldo Risso
- Large Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Animal and Public Health, National Experimental University "Romulo Gallegos", Zaraza, Venezuela
| | - Elias Ascanio-Evanoff
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Department of Biomedical Science, Central University of Venezuela, Maracay, Venezuela
| | - Hector Zerpa
- Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, Saint George's University, Saint George's, Grenada
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SKA-31, an activator of endothelial Ca 2+-activated K + channels evokes robust vasodilation in rat mesenteric arteries. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 831:60-67. [PMID: 29753043 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
It is now well recognized that endothelial KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 channel activities contribute to dilation of resistance arteries via endothelium-mediated hyperpolarization and vascular smooth muscle relaxation. In this study, we have investigated the functional effect of the KCa channel activator SKA-31 in third order rat mesenteric arteries using arterial pressure myography. Isolated arteries were cannulated, pressurized intraluminally to 70 mmHg at 36 °C and then constricted with 1 μM phenylephrine. Acute bath exposure to SKA-31 evoked a robust and reversible inhibition of developed tone (IC50 = 0.22 μM). The vasodilatory effects of SKA-31 and acetylcholine were blunted in the presence of KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 channel antagonists, and were largely prevented following endothelial denudation. Western blot and q-PCR analyses of isolated mesenteric arteries revealed KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 channel expression at the protein and mRNA levels, respectively. Penitrem-A, an inhibitor of KCa1.1 channels, decreased vasodilatory responses to acetylcholine, sodium nitroprusside and NS-1619, but had little effect on SKA-31. Similarly, bath exposure to the eNOS inhibitor L-NAME did not alter SKA-31 and acetylcholine-mediated vasodilation. Collectively, these data highlight the major cellular mechanisms by which the endothelial KCa channel activator SKA-31 inhibits agonist-evoked vasoconstriction in rat small mesenteric arteries.
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Khaddaj Mallat R, Mathew John C, Kendrick DJ, Braun AP. The vascular endothelium: A regulator of arterial tone and interface for the immune system. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2017; 54:458-470. [PMID: 29084470 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2017.1394267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
As the primary interface between the blood and various tissues of the body, the vascular endothelium exhibits a diverse range of roles and activities, all of which contribute to the overall health and function of the cardiovascular system. In this focused review, we discuss several key aspects of endothelial function, how this may be compromised and subsequent consequences. Specifically, we examine the dynamic regulation of arterial contractility and distribution of blood flow through the generation of chemical and electrical signaling events that impinge upon vascular smooth muscle. The endothelium can generate a diverse range of vasoactive compounds and signals, most of which act locally to adjust blood flow in a dynamic fashion to match tissue metabolism. Disruption of these vascular signaling processes (e.g. reduced nitric oxide bioavailability) is typically referred to as endothelial dysfunction, which is a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular disease in patients and occurs early in the development and progression of hypertension, atherosclerosis and tissue ischemia. Endothelial dysfunction is also associated with type-2 Diabetes and aging and increased mechanistic knowledge of the cellular changes contributing to these effects may provide important clues for interventional strategies. The endothelium also serves as the initial site of interaction for immune cells entering tissues in response to damage and acts to facilitate the actions of both the innate and acquired immune systems to interact with the vascular wall. In addition to representing the main cell type responsible for the formation of new blood vessels (i.e. angiogenesis) within the vasculature, the endothelium is also emerging as a source of extracellular vesicle or microparticles for the transport of signaling molecules and other cellular materials to nearby, or remote, sites in the body. The characteristics of released microparticles appear to change with the functional status of the endothelium; thus, these microparticles may represent novel biomarkers of endothelial health and more serious cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayan Khaddaj Mallat
- a Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine , University of Calgary, and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta , Calgary , Canada
| | - Cini Mathew John
- a Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine , University of Calgary, and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta , Calgary , Canada
| | - Dylan J Kendrick
- a Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine , University of Calgary, and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta , Calgary , Canada
| | - Andrew P Braun
- a Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine , University of Calgary, and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta , Calgary , Canada
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Comerma-Steffensen SG, Carvacho I, Hedegaard ER, Simonsen U. Small and Intermediate Calcium-Activated Potassium Channel Openers Improve Rat Endothelial and Erectile Function. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:660. [PMID: 28993731 PMCID: PMC5619997 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Modulation of endothelial calcium-activated potassium (KCa) channels has been proposed as an approach to restore endothelial function. The present study investigated whether novel openers of KCa channels with small (KCa2.x) and intermediate (KCa3.1) conductance, NS309 and NS4591, improve endothelium-dependent relaxation and erectile function. Rat corpus cavernosum (CC) strips were mounted for isometric tension recording and processed for immunoblotting. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), intracavernosal pressure (ICP), and electrocardiographic (ECG) measurements were conducted in anesthetized rats. Immunoblotting revealed the presence of KCa2.3 and large KCa conductance (KCa1.1) channels in the corpus cavernosum. NS309 and NS4591 increased current in CC endothelial cells in whole cell patch clamp experiments. Relaxation induced by NS309 (<1 μM) was inhibited by endothelial cell removal and high extracellular potassium. An inhibitor of nitric oxide (NO) synthase, and blockers of KCa2.x and KCa1.1 channels, apamin and iberiotoxin also inhibited NS309 relaxation. Incubation with NS309 (0.5 μM) markedly enhanced acetylcholine relaxation. Basal erectile function (ICP/MAP) increased during administration of NS309. Increases in ICP/MAP after cavernous nerve stimulation with NS309 were unchanged, whereas NS4591 significantly improved erectile function. Administration of NS309 and NS4591 caused small changes in the electrocardiogram, but neither arrhythmic events nor prolongation of the QTc interval were observed. The present study suggests that openers of KCa2.x and KCa3.1 channels improve endothelial and erectile function. The effects of NS309 and NS4591 on heart rate and ECG are small, but will require additional safety studies before evaluating whether activation of KCa2.3 channels has a potential for treatment of erectile dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon G. Comerma-Steffensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus UniversityAarhus, Denmark
- Animal Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Veterinary Sciences Faculty, Central University of VenezuelaMaracay, Venezuela
| | - Ingrid Carvacho
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus UniversityAarhus, Denmark
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad Católica del MauleTalca, Chile
| | - Elise R. Hedegaard
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus UniversityAarhus, Denmark
| | - Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus UniversityAarhus, Denmark
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Kristiansen SB, Sheykhzade M, Edvinsson L, Haanes KA. Changes in vasodilation following myocardial ischemia/reperfusion in rats. Nitric Oxide 2017; 70:68-75. [PMID: 28919322 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2017.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blockage of a coronary artery, usually caused by arteriosclerosis, can lead to life threatening acute myocardial infarction. Opening with PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention), may be lifesaving, but reperfusion might exacerbate the cellular damage, and changes in the endothelium are believed to be involved in this worsened outcome. AIM The aim of the present study was to compare endothelial dependent and independent vasodilatory effect after experimental myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). METHODS A well-established rat model of myocardial ischemia with 24 h of reperfusion was applied, followed by a study in a wire myograph. RESULTS Endothelial NO dependent relaxation in response to carbachol, was sensitive to arterial depolarization, and was unaffected by I/R. In contrast, endothelial NO dependent ADPβS signalling, which was not sensitive to arterial depolarization, was significantly reduced after I/R. Following I/R, an H2O2 dependent EDH induced dilation appears in response to both of the above agonists. In addition, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) induced vasodilation was reduced. CONCLUSION These data show that NO dependent ADPβS induced dilation is reduced after I/R. However, there is some compensation by released H2O2 causing an EDH. Combined with a loss of maximal dilation in response to CGRP, the reduced vasodilation could be an important factor in understanding the exacerbated damage after I/R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Brøgger Kristiansen
- Department of Clinical Experimental Research, Glostrup Research Institute, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Denmark; Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Majid Sheykhzade
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Edvinsson
- Department of Clinical Experimental Research, Glostrup Research Institute, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Kristian Agmund Haanes
- Department of Clinical Experimental Research, Glostrup Research Institute, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Denmark.
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Climent B, Sánchez A, Moreno L, Pérez-Vizcaíno F, García-Sacristán A, Rivera L, Prieto D. Underlying mechanisms preserving coronary basal tone and NO-mediated relaxation in obesity: Involvement of β1 subunit-mediated upregulation of BKCa channels. Atherosclerosis 2017; 263:227-236. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2017.06.354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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20
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Comerma-Steffensen S, Kun A, Hedegaard ER, Mogensen S, Aalkjaer C, Köhler R, Mønster Christensen B, Simonsen U. Down-regulation of K Ca2.3 channels causes erectile dysfunction in mice. Sci Rep 2017. [PMID: 28630432 PMCID: PMC5476588 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-04188-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Modulation of endothelial calcium-activated K+ channels has been proposed as an approach to restore arterial endothelial cell function in disease. We hypothesized that small-conductance calcium-activated K+ channels (KCa2.3 or SK3) contributes to erectile function. The research was performed in transgenic mice with overexpression (KCa2.3T/T(−Dox)) or down-regulation (KCa2.3T/T(+Dox)) of the KCa2.3 channels and wild-type C57BL/6-mice (WT). QPCR revealed that KCa2.3 and KCa1.1 channels were the most abundant in mouse corpus cavernosum. KCa2.3 channels were found by immunoreactivity and electron microscopy in the apical-lateral membrane of endothelial cells in the corpus cavernosum. Norepinephrine contraction was enhanced in the corpus cavernosum of KCa2.3T/T(+Dox)versus KCa2.3T/T(−Dox) mice, while acetylcholine relaxation was only reduced at 0.3 µM and relaxations in response to the nitric oxide donor sodium nitroprusside were unaltered. An opener of KCa2 channels, NS309 induced concentration-dependent relaxations of corpus cavernosum. Mean arterial pressure was lower in KCa2.3T/T(−Dox) mice compared with WT and KCa2.3T/T(+Dox) mice. In anesthetized mice, cavernous nerve stimulation augmented in frequency/voltage dependent manner erectile function being lower in KCa2.3T/T(+Dox) mice at low frequencies. Our findings suggest that down-regulation of KCa2.3 channels contributes to erectile dysfunction, and that pharmacological activation of KCa2.3 channels may have the potential to restore erectile function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Comerma-Steffensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Attila Kun
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Elise R Hedegaard
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Susie Mogensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Ralf Köhler
- Aragon Agency for Investigation and Development (ARAID), Translational Research Unit, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Inhibition of Myogenic Tone in Rat Cremaster and Cerebral Arteries by SKA-31, an Activator of Endothelial KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 Channels. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2016; 66:118-27. [PMID: 25815673 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 channels contribute to the regulation of myogenic tone in resistance arteries by Ca(2+)-mobilizing vasodilatory hormones. To define further the functional role of these channels in distinct vascular beds, we have examined the vasodilatory actions of the KCa channel activator SKA-31 in myogenically active rat cremaster and middle cerebral arteries. Vessels pressurized to 70 mm Hg constricted by 80-100 μm (ie, 25%-45% of maximal diameter). SKA-31 (10 μM) inhibited myogenic tone by 80% in cremaster and ∼65% in middle cerebral arteries, with IC50 values of ∼2 μM in both vessels. These vasodilatory effects were largely prevented by the KCa2.3 blocker UCL1684 and the KCa3.1 blocker TRAM-34 and abolished by endothelial denudation. Preincubation with N(G) nitro L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 0.1 mM) did not affect the inhibitory response to SKA-31, but attenuated the ACh-evoked dilation by ∼45%. Penitrem-A, a blocker of BK(Ca) channels, did not alter SKA-31 evoked vasodilation but did reduce the inhibition of myogenic tone by ACh, the BKCa channel activator NS1619, and sodium nitroprusside. Collectively, these data demonstrate that SKA-31 produces robust inhibition of myogenic tone in resistance arteries isolated from distinct vascular beds in an endothelium-dependent manner.
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Stead R, Musa MG, Bryant CL, Lanham SA, Johnston DA, Reynolds R, Torrens C, Fraser PA, Clough GF. Developmental conditioning of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated vasorelaxation. J Hypertens 2016; 34:452-63; discussion 463. [PMID: 26682783 PMCID: PMC4732175 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000000833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The endothelium maintains vascular homeostasis through the release of endothelium-derived relaxing factors (EDRF) and endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH). The balance in EDH : EDRF is disturbed in cardiovascular disease and may also be susceptible to developmental conditioning through exposure to an adverse uterine environment to predispose to later risk of hypertension and vascular disease. METHODS Developmentally conditioned changes in EDH : EDRF signalling pathways were investigated in cremaster arterioles (18-32 μm diameter) and third-order mesenteric arteries of adult male mice offspring of dams fed either a fat-rich (high fat, HF, 45% energy from fat) or control (C, 10% energy from fat) diet. After weaning, offspring either continued on high fat or were placed on control diets to give four dietary groups (C/C, HF/C, C/HF, and HF/HF) and studied at 15 weeks of age. RESULTS EDH via intermediate (IKCa) and small (SKca) conductance calcium-activated potassium channels contributed less than 10% to arteriolar acetylcholine-induced relaxation in in-situ conditioned HF/C offspring compared with ∼60% in C/C (P < 0.01). The conditioned reduction in EDH signalling in HF/C offspring was reversed in offspring exposed to a high-fat diet both before and after weaning (HF/HF, 55%, P < 0.01 vs. HF/C). EDH signalling was unaffected in arterioles from C/HF offspring. The changes in EDH : EDRF were associated with altered endothelial cell expression and localization of IKCa channels. CONCLUSION This is the first evidence that EDH-mediated microvascular relaxation is susceptible to an adverse developmental environment through down-regulation of the IKCa signalling pathway. Conditioned offspring exposed to a 'second hit' (HF/HF) exhibit adaptive vascular mechanisms to preserve dilator function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Stead
- Vascular Research Group
- Rebecca Stead and Moji G. Musa contributed equally to the writing of this article
| | - Moji G. Musa
- Vascular Research Group
- Rebecca Stead and Moji G. Musa contributed equally to the writing of this article
| | | | - Stuart A. Lanham
- Bone and Joint Research Group, Institute of Developmental Sciences
| | - David A. Johnston
- Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Imaging Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton
| | | | | | - Paul A. Fraser
- Cardiovascular Division, BHF Centre of Research Excellence, School of Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Vascular thiol redox state has been shown to modulate vasodilator functions in large conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ channels and other related channels. However, the role of vascular redox in small resistance arteries is unknown. To determine how in vivo modulation of thiol redox state affects small resistance arteries relaxation, we generated a transgenic mouse strain that overexpresses thioredoxin, a small redox protein (Trx-Tg), and another strain that is thioredoxin-deficient (dnTrx-Tg). The redox state of the mesenteric arteries (MAs) in Trx-Tg mice is found to be predominantly in reduced state; in contrast, MAs from dnTrx-Tg mice remain in oxidized state. Thus, we created an in vivo redox system of mice and isolated the second-order branches of the main superior MAs from wild-type, Trx-Tg, or dnTrx-Tg mice to assess endothelium-dependent relaxing responses in a wire myograph. In MAs isolated from Trx-Tg mice, we observed an enhanced intermediate-conductance Ca2+ -activated potassium channel contribution resulting in a larger endothelium-dependent hyperpolarizing (EDH) relaxation in response to indirect (acetylcholine) and direct (NS309) opening of endothelial calcium-activated potassium channels. MAs derived from dnTrx-Tg mice showed both blunted nitric oxide-mediated and EDH-mediated relaxation compared with Trx-Tg mice. In a control study, diamide decreased EDH relaxations in MAs of wild-type mice, whereas dithiothreitol improved EDH relaxations and was able to restore the diamide-induced impairment in EDH response. Furthermore, the basal or angiotensin II-mediated systolic blood pressure remained significantly lower in Trx-Tg mice compared with wild-type or dnTrx-Tg mice, thus directly establishing redox-mediated EDH in blood pressure control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob H P Hilgers
- From the Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock
| | - Kumuda C Das
- From the Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Excellence in Cardiovascular Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock.
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Climent B, Moreno L, Martínez P, Contreras C, Sánchez A, Pérez-Vizcaíno F, García-Sacristán A, Rivera L, Prieto D. Upregulation of SK3 and IK1 channels contributes to the enhanced endothelial calcium signaling and the preserved coronary relaxation in obese Zucker rats. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109432. [PMID: 25302606 PMCID: PMC4193814 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Endothelial small- and intermediate-conductance KCa channels, SK3 and IK1, are key mediators in the endothelium-derived hyperpolarization and relaxation of vascular smooth muscle and also in the modulation of endothelial Ca2+ signaling and nitric oxide (NO) release. Obesity is associated with endothelial dysfunction and impaired relaxation, although how obesity influences endothelial SK3/IK1 function is unclear. Therefore we assessed whether the role of these channels in the coronary circulation is altered in obese animals. Methods and Results In coronary arteries mounted in microvascular myographs, selective blockade of SK3/IK1 channels unmasked an increased contribution of these channels to the ACh- and to the exogenous NO- induced relaxations in arteries of Obese Zucker Rats (OZR) compared to Lean Zucker Rats (LZR). Relaxant responses induced by the SK3/IK1 channel activator NS309 were enhanced in OZR and NO- endothelium-dependent in LZR, whereas an additional endothelium-independent relaxant component was found in OZR. Fura2-AM fluorescence revealed a larger ACh-induced intracellular Ca2+ mobilization in the endothelium of coronary arteries from OZR, which was inhibited by blockade of SK3/IK1 channels in both LZR and OZR. Western blot analysis showed an increased expression of SK3/IK1 channels in coronary arteries of OZR and immunohistochemistry suggested that it takes place predominantly in the endothelial layer. Conclusions Obesity may induce activation of adaptive vascular mechanisms to preserve the dilator function in coronary arteries. Increased function and expression of SK3/IK1 channels by influencing endothelial Ca2+ dynamics might contribute to the unaltered endothelium-dependent coronary relaxation in the early stages of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Climent
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (BC); (DP)
| | - Laura Moreno
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Martínez
- Departamento de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Contreras
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Sánchez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Luis Rivera
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dolores Prieto
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (BC); (DP)
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Tano JY, Gollasch M. Calcium-activated potassium channels in ischemia reperfusion: a brief update. Front Physiol 2014; 5:381. [PMID: 25339909 PMCID: PMC4186282 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemia and reperfusion (IR) injury constitutes one of the major causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The discovery of new therapies to block/mediate the effects of IR is therefore an important goal in the biomedical sciences. Dysfunction associated with IR involves modification of calcium-activated potassium channels (KCa) through different mechanisms, which are still under study. Respectively, the KCa family, major contributors to plasma membrane calcium influx in cells and essential players in the regulation of the vascular tone are interesting candidates. This family is divided into two groups including the large conductance (BKCa) and the small/intermediate conductance (SKCa/IKCa) K(+) channels. In the heart and brain, these channels have been described to offer protection against IR injury. BKCa and SKCa channels deserve special attention since new data demonstrate that these channels are also expressed in mitochondria. More studies are however needed to fully determine their potential use as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Yves Tano
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité University Medicine - Max Delbrück Center (MDC) for Molecular Medicine Berlin, Germany ; Nephrology/Intensive Care Section, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Germany
| | - Maik Gollasch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité University Medicine - Max Delbrück Center (MDC) for Molecular Medicine Berlin, Germany ; Nephrology/Intensive Care Section, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Germany
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A pharmacologic activator of endothelial KCa channels enhances coronary flow in the hearts of type 2 diabetic rats. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2014; 72:364-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2014.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Revised: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Waeckel L, Bertin F, Clavreul N, Damery T, Köhler R, Paysant J, Sansilvestri-Morel P, Simonet S, Vayssettes-Courchay C, Wulff H, Verbeuren TJ, Félétou M. Preserved regulation of renal perfusion pressure by small and intermediate conductance KCa channels in hypertensive mice with or without renal failure. Pflugers Arch 2014; 467:817-31. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1542-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Revised: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Roberts OL, Kamishima T, Barrett-Jolley R, Quayle JM, Dart C. Exchange protein activated by cAMP (Epac) induces vascular relaxation by activating Ca2+-sensitive K+ channels in rat mesenteric artery. J Physiol 2013; 591:5107-23. [PMID: 23959673 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2013.262006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasodilator-induced elevation of intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) is a central mechanism governing arterial relaxation but is incompletely understood due to the diversity of cAMP effectors. Here we investigate the role of the novel cAMP effector exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac) in mediating vasorelaxation in rat mesenteric arteries. In myography experiments, the Epac-selective cAMP analogue 8-pCPT-2-O-Me-cAMP-AM (5 μM, subsequently referred to as 8-pCPT-AM) elicited a 77.6 ± 7.1% relaxation of phenylephrine-contracted arteries over a 5 min period (mean ± SEM; n = 6). 8-pCPT-AM induced only a 16.7 ± 2.4% relaxation in arteries pre-contracted with high extracellular K(+) over the same time period (n = 10), suggesting that some of Epac's relaxant effect relies upon vascular cell hyperpolarization. This involves Ca(2+)-sensitive, large-conductance K(+) (BK(Ca)) channel opening as iberiotoxin (100 nM) significantly reduced the ability of 8-pCPT-AM to reverse phenylephrine-induced contraction (arteries relaxed by only 35.0 ± 8.5% over a 5 min exposure to 8-pCPT-AM, n = 5; P < 0.05). 8-pCPT-AM increased Ca(2+) spark frequency in Fluo-4-AM-loaded mesenteric myocytes from 0.045 ± 0.008 to 0.103 ± 0.022 sparks s(-1) μm(-1) (P < 0.05) and reversibly increased both the frequency (0.94 ± 0.25 to 2.30 ± 0.72 s(-1)) and amplitude (23.9 ± 3.3 to 35.8 ± 7.7 pA) of spontaneous transient outward currents (STOCs) recorded in isolated mesenteric myocytes (n = 7; P < 0.05). 8-pCPT-AM-activated STOCs were sensitive to iberiotoxin (100 nM) and to ryanodine (30 μM). Current clamp recordings of isolated myocytes showed a 7.9 ± 1.0 mV (n = 10) hyperpolarization in response to 8-pCPT-AM that was sensitive to iberiotoxin (n = 5). Endothelial disruption suppressed 8-pCPT-AM-mediated relaxation in phenylephrine-contracted arteries (24.8 ± 4.9% relaxation after 5 min of exposure, n = 5; P < 0.05), as did apamin and TRAM-34, blockers of Ca(2+)-sensitive, small- and intermediate-conductance K(+) (SK(Ca) and IK(Ca)) channels, respectively, and N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). In Fluo-4-AM-loaded mesenteric endothelial cells, 8-pCPT-AM induced a sustained increase in global Ca(2+). Our data suggest that Epac hyperpolarizes smooth muscle by (1) increasing localized Ca(2+) release from ryanodine receptors (Ca(2+) sparks) to activate BK(Ca) channels, and (2) endothelial-dependent mechanisms involving the activation of SK(Ca)/IK(Ca) channels and NOS. Epac-mediated smooth muscle hyperpolarization will limit Ca(2+) entry via voltage-sensitive Ca(2+) channels and represents a novel mechanism of arterial relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owain Llŷr Roberts
- C. Dart: Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK.
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Itoh T, Maekawa T, Shibayama Y. Characteristics of ACh-induced hyperpolarization and relaxation in rabbit jugular vein. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:682-96. [PMID: 22595036 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02038.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The roles played by endothelium-derived NO and prostacyclin and by endothelial cell hyperpolarization in ACh-induced relaxation have been well characterized in arteries. However, the mechanisms underlying ACh-induced relaxation in veins remain to be fully clarified. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH ACh-induced smooth muscle cell (SMC) hyperpolarization and relaxation were measured in endothelium-intact and -denuded preparations of rabbit jugular vein. KEY RESULTS In endothelium-intact preparations, ACh (≤ 10⁻⁸ M) marginally increased the intracellular concentration of Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺](i)) in endothelial cells but did not alter the SMC membrane potential. However, ACh (10⁻¹⁰ -10⁻⁸ M) induced a concentration-dependent relaxation during the contraction induced by PGF(2α) and this relaxation was blocked by the NO synthase inhibitor N(ω) -nitro-l-arginine. ACh (10⁻⁸ -10⁻⁶ M) concentration-dependently increased endothelial [Ca²⁺](i) and induced SMC hyperpolarization and relaxation. These SMC responses were blocked in the combined presence of apamin [blocker of small-conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ (SK(Ca) , K(Ca) 2.3) channel], TRAM 34 [blocker of intermediate-conductance Ca²⁺ -activated K⁺ (IK(Ca) , K(Ca) 3.1) channel] and margatoxin [blocker of subfamily of voltage-gated K⁺ (K(V) ) channel, K(V) 1]. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS In rabbit jugular vein, NO plays a primary role in endothelium-dependent relaxation at very low concentrations of ACh (10⁻¹⁰ -10⁻⁸ M). At higher concentrations, ACh (10⁻⁸ -3 × 10⁻⁶ M) induces SMC hyperpolarization through activation of endothelial IK(Ca) , K(V) 1 and (possibly) SK(Ca) channels and produces relaxation. These results imply that ACh regulates rabbit jugular vein tonus through activation of two endothelium-dependent regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeo Itoh
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Japan.
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Kroigaard C, Kudryavtseva O, Dalsgaard T, Wandall-Frostholm C, Olesen SP, Simonsen U. KCa3.1 channel downregulation and impaired endothelium-derived hyperpolarization-type relaxation in pulmonary arteries from chronically hypoxic rats. Exp Physiol 2013; 98:957-69. [DOI: 10.1113/expphysiol.2012.066340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Mishra RC, Belke D, Wulff H, Braun AP. SKA-31, a novel activator of SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels, increases coronary flow in male and female rat hearts. Cardiovasc Res 2012; 97:339-48. [PMID: 23118129 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvs326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Endothelial SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels play an important role in the regulation of vascular function and systemic blood pressure. Based on our previous findings that small molecule activators of SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels (i.e. NS309 and SKA-31) can inhibit myogenic tone in isolated resistance arteries, we hypothesized that this class of compounds may induce effective vasodilation in an intact vascular bed, such as the coronary circulation. METHODS AND RESULTS In a Langendorff-perfused, beating rat heart preparation, acute bolus administrations of SKA-31 (0.01-5 µg) dose-dependently increased total coronary flow (25-30%) in both male and female hearts; these responses were associated with modest, secondary increases in left ventricular (LV) systolic pressure and heart rate. SKA-31 evoked responses in coronary flow, LV pressure, and heart rate were qualitatively comparable to acute responses evoked by bradykinin (1 µg) and adenosine (10 µg). In the presence of apamin and TRAM-34, selective blockers of SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels, respectively, SKA-31 and bradykinin-induced responses were largely inhibited, whereas the adenosine-induced changes were blocked by ∼40%; TRAM-34 alone produced less inhibition. Sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 0.2 μg bolus dose) evoked changes in coronary flow, LV pressure, and heart rate were similar to those induced by SKA-31, but were unaffected by apamin + TRAM-34. The NOS inhibitor L-NNA reduced bradykinin- and adenosine-evoked changes, but did not affect responses to either SKA-31 or SNP. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that SKA-31 can rapidly and reversibly induce dilation of the coronary circulation in intact functioning hearts under basal flow and contractility conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh C Mishra
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr. NW, Calgary, AB, Canada T2N 4N1
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Joshi A, Woodman OL. Increased nitric oxide activity compensates for increased oxidative stress to maintain endothelial function in rat aorta in early type 1 diabetes. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2012; 385:1083-94. [PMID: 22965470 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-012-0794-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2012] [Accepted: 08/27/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hyperglycaemia and oxidative stress are known to acutely cause endothelial dysfunction in vitro, but in the initial stages of diabetes, endothelium-dependent relaxation is preserved. The aim of this study was to investigate how endothelium-dependent relaxation is maintained in the early stages of type 1 diabetes. Diabetes was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats with a single injection of streptozotocin (48 mg/kg, i.v.), and after 6 weeks, endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent relaxations were examined in the thoracic aorta in vitro. Lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence was used to measure superoxide generation from the aorta. Diabetes increased superoxide generation by the aorta (2,180 ± 363 vs 986 ± 163 AU/mg dry tissue weight). Acetylcholine (ACh)-induced relaxation was similar in aortae from control (pEC(50) 7.36 ± 0.09, R (max) 95 ± 3 %) and diabetic rats (pEC(50) 7.33 ± 0.10, R (max) 88 ± 5 %). The ACh-induced relaxation was abolished by the combined presence of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA, 100 μM) and an inhibitor of soluble guanylate cyclase, 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ, 10 μM) in control rats, but under the same conditions, the diabetic aortic rings showed significant relaxation to ACh (pEC(50) 6.75 ± 0.15, R (max) 25 ± 4 %, p < 0.05). In diabetic aortae, the addition of haemoglobin, which inactivates nitric oxide, to L-NNA + ODQ abolished the response to ACh. The addition of the potassium channel blockers, apamin and TRAM-34, to L-NNA + ODQ also abolished the relaxation response to ACh. Diabetes significantly elevated plasma total nitrite/nitrate and increased expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and calmodulin in aortae. These data indicate that after 6 weeks of diabetes, despite increased oxidant stress, endothelium-dependent relaxation is maintained due to the increased eNOS expression resulting in increased NO synthesis. In diabetic arteries, NO acts both through and independently of cGMP pathways to cause relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Joshi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Kerr PM, Tam R, Narang D, Potts K, McMillan D, McMillan K, Plane F. Endothelial calcium-activated potassium channels as therapeutic targets to enhance availability of nitric oxide. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2012; 90:739-52. [PMID: 22626011 DOI: 10.1139/y2012-075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The vascular endothelium plays a critical role in vascular health by controlling arterial diameter, regulating local cell growth, and protecting blood vessels from the deleterious consequences of platelet aggregation and activation of inflammatory responses. Circulating chemical mediators and physical forces act directly on the endothelium to release diffusible relaxing factors, such as nitric oxide (NO), and to elicit hyperpolarization of the endothelial cell membrane potential, which can spread to the surrounding smooth muscle cells via gap junctions. Endothelial hyperpolarization, mediated by activation of calcium-activated potassium (K(Ca)) channels, has generally been regarded as a distinct pathway for smooth muscle relaxation. However, recent evidence supports a role for endothelial K(Ca) channels in production of endothelium-derived NO, and indicates that pharmacological activation of these channels can enhance NO-mediated responses. In this review we summarize the current data on the functional role of endothelial K(Ca) channels in regulating NO-mediated changes in arterial diameter and NO production, and explore the tempting possibility that these channels may represent a novel avenue for therapeutic intervention in conditions associated with reduced NO availability such as hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, smoking, and diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Kerr
- Department of Pharmacology, 9-62 Medical Sciences Building, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
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Behringer EJ, Segal SS. Tuning electrical conduction along endothelial tubes of resistance arteries through Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels. Circ Res 2012; 110:1311-21. [PMID: 22492531 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.111.262592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Electrical conduction through gap junction channels between endothelial cells of resistance vessels is integral to blood flow control. Small and intermediate-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (SK(Ca)/IK(Ca)) initiate electrical signals in endothelial cells, but it is unknown whether SK(Ca)/IK(Ca) activation alters signal transmission along the endothelium. OBJECTIVE We tested the hypothesis that SK(Ca)/IK(Ca) activity regulates electrical conduction along the endothelium of resistance vessels. METHODS AND RESULTS Freshly isolated endothelial cell tubes (60 μm wide; 1-3 mm long; cell length, ≈35 μm) from mouse skeletal muscle feed (superior epigastric) arteries were studied using dual intracellular microelectrodes. Current was injected (±0.1-3 nA) at site 1 while recording membrane potential (V(m)) at site 2 (separation distance=50-2000 μm). SK(Ca)/IK(Ca) activation (NS309, 1 μmol/L) reduced the change in V(m) along endothelial cell tubes by ≥50% and shortened the electrical length constant (λ) from 1380 to 850 μm (P<0.05) while intercellular dye transfer (propidium iodide) was maintained. Activating SK(Ca)/IK(Ca) with acetylcholine or SKA-31 also reduced electrical conduction. These effects of SK(Ca)/IK(Ca) activation persisted when hyperpolarization (>30 mV) was prevented with 60 mmol/L [K(+)](o). Conversely, blocking SK(Ca)/IK(Ca) (apamin+charybdotoxin) depolarized cells by ≈10 mV and enhanced electrical conduction (ie, changes in V(m)) by ≈30% (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS These findings illustrate a novel role for SK(Ca)/IK(Ca) activity in tuning electrical conduction along the endothelium of resistance vessels by governing signal dissipation through changes in membrane resistance. Voltage-insensitive ion channels can thereby tune intercellular electrical signaling independent from gap junction channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik J Behringer
- Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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Gaete PS, Lillo MA, Ardiles NM, Pérez FR, Figueroa XF. Ca2+-activated K+ channels of small and intermediate conductance control eNOS activation through NAD(P)H oxidase. Free Radic Biol Med 2012; 52:860-70. [PMID: 22210378 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2011.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Revised: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 11/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (K(Ca)) and NO play a central role in the endothelium-dependent control of vasomotor tone. We evaluated the interaction of K(Ca) with NO production in isolated arterial mesenteric beds of the rat. In phenylephrine-contracted mesenteries, acetylcholine (ACh)-induced vasodilation was reduced by NO synthase (NOS) inhibition with N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine (L-NA), but in the presence of tetraethylammonium, L-NA did not further affect the response. In KCl-contracted mesenteries, the relaxation elicited by 100 nM ACh or 1 μM ionomycin was abolished by L-NA, tetraethylammonium, or simultaneous blockade of small-conductance K(Ca) (SK(Ca)) channels with apamin and intermediate-conductance K(Ca) (IK(Ca)) channels with triarylmethane-34 (TRAM-34). Apamin-TRAM-34 treatment also abolished 100 nM ACh-activated NO production, which was associated with an increase in superoxide formation. Endothelial cell Ca(2+) buffering with BAPTA elicited a similar increment in superoxide. Apamin-TRAM-34 treatment increased endothelial NOS phosphorylation at threonine 495 (P-eNOS(Thr495)). Blockade of NAD(P)H oxidase with apocynin or superoxide dismutation with PEG-SOD prevented the increment in superoxide and changes in P-eNOS(Thr495) observed during apamin and TRAM-34 application. Our results indicate that blockade of SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) activates NAD(P)H oxidase-dependent superoxide formation, which leads to inhibition of NO release through P-eNOS(Thr495). These findings disclose a novel mechanism involved in the control of NO production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo S Gaete
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Calcium influx blocked by SK&F 96365 modulates the LPS plus IFN-γ-induced inflammatory response in murine peritoneal macrophages. Int Immunopharmacol 2012; 12:384-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2011.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2011] [Revised: 11/25/2011] [Accepted: 12/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Climent B, Schubert R, Stankevicius E, García-Sacristán A, Simonsen U, Rivera L. Large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels modulate endothelial cell outward currents and nitric oxide release in the intact rat superior mesenteric artery. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2011; 417:1007-13. [PMID: 22209788 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2011.12.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Accepted: 12/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial cells (EC) control vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) tone by release of paracrine factors. VSMC may also influence the EC layer, and therefore, the present study hypothesized that the opening of large-conductance Ca(2+) activated K(+) (BK(Ca)) channels may indirectly modulate EC hyperpolarization and nitric oxide (NO) release via myoendothelial gap junctions (MEGJ). To address this hypothesis 'in situ' EC ion current recordings, isolated VSMC patch clamp recordings, and simultaneous measurements of NO concentration and relaxation were conducted using segments of the rat superior mesenteric artery. In arteries constricted by α(1)-adrenoceptor activation, ACh (1 μM) evoked EC outward currents, vasorelaxation, and NO release. In contrast to preincubation with iberiotoxin (IbTx, 100nM) application of IbTx after ACh decreased EC outward currents, NO release and vasorelaxation. Furthermore, in phenylephrine (Phe)-contracted arteries treated with a gap junction uncoupler, cabenoxolone (CBX), IbTx failed to decrease ACh-evoked EC outward currents. In addition, CBX decreased EC outward currents, time constant of the capacitative transients, input capacitance, and increased input resistance. In isolated VSMC CBX did not affect BK(Ca) currents. Immunohistochemistry revealed only BK(Ca) channel positive staining in the VSMC layer. Therefore, the present results suggest that BK(Ca) channels are expressed in the VSMC, and that Phe by activation of VSMC BK(Ca) channels modulates ACh-evoked EC outward currents, NO release and vasorelaxation via MEGJ in rat superior mesenteric artery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Climent
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain.
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Stankevicius E, Dalsgaard T, Kroigaard C, Beck L, Boedtkjer E, Misfeldt MW, Nielsen G, Schjorring O, Hughes A, Simonsen U. Opening of small and intermediate calcium-activated potassium channels induces relaxation mainly mediated by nitric-oxide release in large arteries and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor in small arteries from rat. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2011; 339:842-50. [PMID: 21880870 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.111.179242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to investigate whether calcium-activated potassium channels of small (SK(Ca) or K(Ca)2) and intermediate (IK(Ca) or K(Ca)3.1) conductance activated by 6,7-dichloro-1H-indole-2,3-dione 3-oxime (NS309) are involved in both nitric oxide (NO) and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF)-type relaxation in large and small rat mesenteric arteries. Segments of rat superior and small mesenteric arteries were mounted in myographs for functional studies. NO was recorded using NO microsensors. SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channel currents and mRNA expression were investigated in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and calcium concentrations were investigated in both HUVECs and mesenteric arterial endothelial cells. In both superior (∼1093 μm) and small mesenteric (∼300 μm) arteries, NS309 evoked endothelium- and concentration-dependent relaxations. In superior mesenteric arteries, NS309 relaxations and NO release were inhibited by both N(G),N(G)-asymmetric dimethyl-l-arginine (ADMA) (300 μM), an inhibitor of NO synthase, and apamin (0.5 μM) plus 1-[(2-chlorophenyl)diphenylmethyl]-1H-pyrazole (TRAM-34) (1 μM), blockers of SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels, respectively. In small mesenteric arteries, NS309 relaxations were reduced slightly by ADMA, whereas apamin plus an IK(Ca) channel blocker almost abolished relaxation. Iberiotoxin did not change NS309 relaxation. HUVECs expressed mRNA for SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels, and NS309 induced increases in calcium, outward current, and NO release that were blocked by apamin and TRAM-34 or charybdotoxin. These findings suggest that opening of SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels leads to endothelium-dependent relaxation that is mediated mainly by NO in large mesenteric arteries and by EDHF-type relaxation in small mesenteric arteries. NS309-induced calcium influx appears to contribute to the formation of NO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgaras Stankevicius
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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Félétou M. The Endothelium, Part I: Multiple Functions of the Endothelial Cells -- Focus on Endothelium-Derived Vasoactive Mediators. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.4199/c00031ed1v01y201105isp019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Climent B, Zsiros E, Stankevicius E, de la Villa P, Panyi G, Simonsen U, García-Sacristán A, Rivera L. Intact rat superior mesenteric artery endothelium is an electrical syncytium and expresses strong inward rectifier K+ conductance. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2011; 410:501-7. [PMID: 21679686 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2011.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cell phenotypes may change dramatically after isolation and in cell cultures. This study was designed to investigate gap junctions coupling in an integrated intact preparation and to test if K(IR) channels modulate resting membrane conductance in "in situ" endothelial cells (EC), and acetylcholine (ACh)-evoked relaxation of the rat superior mesenteric artery. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Whole cell blind patch recordings of ionic currents from in situ EC, dye-coupling experiments, and functional studies were performed in rat superior mesenteric artery. KEY RESULTS EC were dye-coupled through gap junctions. 18β-glycyrretinic acid (25 μM) decreased outward and inward currents, the 80% decay of time and time constant of the capacitative transients, capacitance, and increased input resistance. Barium chloride (30 μM) decreased resting and ACh-evoked inward currents, the sensitivity of ACh-evoked relaxation, and decreased both the sensitivity and the maximal relaxation to S-nitroso-N-acetyl penicillamine in arteries with, but not in arteries without endothelium. CONCLUSIONS The present results suggest that the EC layer of this large artery is electrically coupled, and that K(IR) channels regulate resting inward conductance, hence suggesting that they are of importance for resting membrane potential in in situ EC. Moreover, EC K(IR) channels are involved in ACh-evoked relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Climent
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
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Dalsgaard T, Kroigaard C, Simonsen U. Calcium-activated potassium channels - a therapeutic target for modulating nitric oxide in cardiovascular disease? Expert Opin Ther Targets 2010; 14:825-37. [PMID: 20560781 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2010.500616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD Cardiovascular risk factors are often associated with endothelial dysfunction, which is also prognostic for occurrence of cardiovascular events. Endothelial dysfunction is reflected by blunted vasodilatation and reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. Endothelium-dependent vasodilatation is mediated by NO, prostacyclin, and an endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor (EDHF), and involves small (SK) and intermediate (IK) conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels. Therefore, SK and IK channels may be drug targets for the treatment of endothelial dysfunction in cardiovascular disease. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW SK and IK channels are involved in EDHF-type vasodilatation, but recent studies suggest that these channels are also involved in the regulation of NO bioavailability. Here we review how SK and IK channels may regulate NO bioavailability. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN Opening of SK and IK channels is associated with EDHF-type vasodilatation, but, through increased endothelial cell Ca(2+) influx, L-arginine uptake, and decreased ROS production, it may also lead to increased NO bioavailability and endothelium-dependent vasodilatation. TAKE HOME MESSAGE Opening of SK and IK channels can increase both EDHF and NO-mediated vasodilatation. Therefore, openers of SK and IK channels may have the potential of improving endothelial cell function in cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Dalsgaard
- Department of Pharmacology, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
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Dalsgaard T, Kroigaard C, Misfeldt M, Bek T, Simonsen U. Openers of small conductance calcium-activated potassium channels selectively enhance NO-mediated bradykinin vasodilatation in porcine retinal arterioles. Br J Pharmacol 2010; 160:1496-508. [PMID: 20590639 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00803.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Small (SK(Ca) or K(Ca)2) and intermediate (IK(Ca) or K(Ca)3.1) conductance calcium-activated potassium channels are involved in regulation of vascular tone and blood pressure. The present study investigated whether NS309 (6,7-dichloro-1H-indole-2,3-dione 3-oxime) and CyPPA (cyclohexyl-[2-(3,5-dimethyl-pyrazol-1-yl)-6-methyl-pyrimidin-4-yl]-amine), which are selective openers of SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels and of SK(Ca)2 and SK(Ca)3 channels, respectively, enhance endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in porcine retinal arterioles. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In porcine retinal arterioles, SK(Ca)3 and IK(Ca) protein localization was examined by immunolabelling. Endothelial cell calcium was measured by fluorescence imaging. For functional studies, arterioles with internal diameters of 116 +/- 2 microm (n = 276) were mounted in microvascular myographs for isometric tension recordings. KEY RESULTS SK(Ca)3 and IK(Ca) protein was localized in the endothelium. Bradykinin, but not NS309 or CyPPA increased endothelial cell calcium. Pre-incubation with NS309 or CyPPA enhanced bradykinin relaxation without changing endothelial cell calcium. This enhanced relaxation was abolished by blocking SK(Ca) channels with apamin. In the presence of NS309 or CyPPA, mainly inhibition of NO synthase with asymmetric dimethylarginine, but also inhibition of cyclooxygenase with indomethacin, reduced bradykinin relaxation. Bradykinin relaxation was completely abolished by NO synthase and cyclooxygenase inhibition together with a NO scavenger, oxyhaemoglobin. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS In porcine retinal arterioles, bradykinin increases endothelial cell calcium leading to activation of SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels. Without altering endothelial cell calcium, NS309 and CyPPA open SK(Ca) channels that enhance NO-mediated bradykinin relaxations. These results imply that opening SK(Ca) channels improves endothelium-dependent relaxation and makes this channel a potential target for treatments aimed at restoring retinal blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Dalsgaard
- Department of Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark.
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Pagán RM, Prieto D, Hernández M, Correa C, García-Sacristán A, Benedito S, Martínez AC. Regulation of NO-dependent acetylcholine relaxation by K+ channels and the Na+-K+ ATPase pump in porcine internal mammary artery. Eur J Pharmacol 2010; 641:61-6. [PMID: 20519140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2010.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2009] [Revised: 03/10/2010] [Accepted: 05/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to determine whether K+ channels play a role in nitric oxide (NO)-dependent acetylcholine relaxation in porcine internal mammary artery (IMA). IMA segments were isolated and mounted in organ baths to record isometric tension. Acetylcholine-elicited vasodilation was abolished by muscarinic receptor blockade with atropine (10(-6)M). Incubation with indomethacin (3 x 10(-6)M), superoxide dismutase (150 U/ml) and bosentan (10(-5)M) did not modify the acetylcholine response ruling out the participation of cyclooxygenase-derivates, reactive oxygen species or endothelin. The relaxation response to acetylcholine was strongly diminished by NO synthase- or soluble guanylyl cyclase-inhibition using L-NOArg (10(-4)M) or ODQ (3 x 10(-6)M), respectively. The vasodilation induced by acetylcholine and a NO donor (NaNO(2)) was reduced when rings were contracted with an enriched K+ solution (30 mM), by voltage-dependent K+ (K(v)) channel blockade with 4-amynopiridine (4-AP; 10(-4)M), by Ca(2+)-activated K+ (K(Ca)) channel blockade with tetraethylammonium (TEA; 10(-3)M), and by apamin (5 x 10(-7)M) plus charybdotoxin (ChTx; 10(-7)M) but not when these were added alone. In contrast, large conductance K(Ca) (BK(Ca)), ATP-sensitive K+ (K(ATP)) and inwardly rectifying K+ (K(ir)) channel blockade with iberiotoxin (IbTx; 10(-7)M), glibenclamide (10(-6)M) and BaCl(2) (3 x 10(-5)M), respectively, did not alter the concentration-response curves to acetylcholine and NaNO(2). Na+-K+ ATPase pump inhibition with ouabain (10(-5)M) practically abolished acetylcholine and NaNO(2) relaxations. Our findings suggest that acetylcholine-induced relaxation is largely mediated through the NO-cGMP pathway, involving apamin plus ChTx-sensitive K+ and K(v) channels, and Na+-K+-ATPase pump activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa María Pagán
- Sección Departamental de Fisiología Animal, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, Madrid, Spain
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de Wit C, Griffith TM. Connexins and gap junctions in the EDHF phenomenon and conducted vasomotor responses. Pflugers Arch 2010; 459:897-914. [PMID: 20379740 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-010-0830-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2010] [Accepted: 03/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
It is becoming increasingly evident that electrical signaling via gap junctions plays a central role in the physiological control of vascular tone via two related mechanisms (1) the endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) phenomenon, in which radial transmission of hyperpolarization from the endothelium to subjacent smooth muscle promotes relaxation, and (2) responses that propagate longitudinally, in which electrical signaling within the intimal and medial layers of the arteriolar wall orchestrates mechanical behavior over biologically large distances. In the EDHF phenomenon, the transmitted endothelial hyperpolarization is initiated by the activation of Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels channels by InsP(3)-induced Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum and/or store-operated Ca(2+) entry triggered by the depletion of such stores. Pharmacological inhibitors of direct cell-cell coupling may thus attenuate EDHF-type smooth muscle hyperpolarizations and relaxations, confirming the participation of electrotonic signaling via myoendothelial and homocellular smooth muscle gap junctions. In contrast to isolated vessels, surprisingly little experimental evidence argues in favor of myoendothelial coupling acting as the EDHF mechanism in arterioles in vivo. However, it now seems established that the endothelium plays the leading role in the spatial propagation of arteriolar responses and that these involve poorly understood regenerative mechanisms. The present review will focus on the complex interactions between the diverse cellular signaling mechanisms that contribute to these phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cor de Wit
- Institut für Physiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany.
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Kapela A, Bezerianos A, Tsoukias NM. A mathematical model of vasoreactivity in rat mesenteric arterioles: I. Myoendothelial communication. Microcirculation 2010; 16:694-713. [PMID: 19905969 DOI: 10.3109/10739680903177539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
To study the effect of myoendothelial communication on vascular reactivity, we integrated detailed mathematical models of Ca(2+) dynamics and membrane electrophysiology in arteriolar smooth muscle (SMC) and endothelial (EC) cells. Cells are coupled through the exchange of Ca(2+), Cl(-), K(+), and Na(+) ions, inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP(3)), and the paracrine diffusion of nitric oxide (NO). EC stimulation reduces intracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)) in the SMC by transmitting a hyperpolarizing current carried primarily by K(+). The NO-independent endothelium-derived hyperpolarization was abolished in a synergistic-like manner by inhibition of EC SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels. During NE stimulation, IP(3) diffusing from the SMC induces EC Ca(2+) release, which, in turn, moderates SMC depolarization and [Ca(2+)](i) elevation. On the contrary, SMC [Ca(2+)](i) was not affected by EC-derived IP(3). Myoendothelial Ca(2+) fluxes had no effect in either cell. The EC exerts a stabilizing effect on calcium-induced calcium release-dependent SMC Ca(2+) oscillations by increasing the norepinephrine concentration window for oscillations. We conclude that a model based on independent data for subcellular components can capture major features of the integrated vessel behavior. This study provides a tissue-specific approach for analyzing complex signaling mechanisms in the vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Kapela
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
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Aamand R, Dalsgaard T, Jensen FB, Simonsen U, Roepstorff A, Fago A. Generation of nitric oxide from nitrite by carbonic anhydrase: a possible link between metabolic activity and vasodilation. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2009; 297:H2068-74. [PMID: 19820197 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00525.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
In catalyzing the reversible hydration of CO2 to bicarbonate and protons, the ubiquitous enzyme carbonic anhydrase (CA) plays a crucial role in CO2 transport, in acid-base balance, and in linking local acidosis to O2 unloading from hemoglobin. Considering the structural similarity between bicarbonate and nitrite, we hypothesized that CA uses nitrite as a substrate to produce the potent vasodilator nitric oxide (NO) to increase local blood flow to metabolically active tissues. Here we show that CA readily reacts with nitrite to generate NO, particularly at low pH, and that the NO produced in the reaction induces vasodilation in aortic rings. This reaction occurs under normoxic and hypoxic conditions and in various tissues at physiological levels of CA and nitrite. Furthermore, two specific inhibitors of the CO2 hydration, dorzolamide and acetazolamide, increase the CA-catalyzed production of vasoactive NO from nitrite. This enhancing effect may explain the known vasodilating effects of these drugs and indicates that CO2 and nitrite bind differently to the enzyme active site. Kinetic analyses show a higher reaction rate at high pH, suggesting that anionic nitrite participates more effectively in catalysis. Taken together, our results reveal a novel nitrous anhydrase enzymatic activity of CA that would function to link the in vivo main end products of energy metabolism (CO2/H+) to the generation of vasoactive NO. The CA-mediated NO production may be important to the correlation between blood flow and metabolic activity in tissues, as occurring for instance in active areas of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasmus Aamand
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universitetsparken Bldg. 1131, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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Grossini E, Molinari C, Mary DASG, Uberti F, Caimmi PP, Vacca G. Intracoronary intermedin 1-47 augments cardiac perfusion and function in anesthetized pigs: role of calcitonin receptors and beta-adrenoreceptor-mediated nitric oxide release. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2009; 107:1037-50. [PMID: 19696365 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00569.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic intermedin (IMD)1-47 administration has been reported to result in vasodilation and marked hypotension through calcitonin-related receptor complexes. However, its effects on the coronary circulation and the heart have not been examined in vivo. The present study was therefore planned to determine the primary in vivo effect of IMD1-47 on coronary blood flow and cardiac function and the involvement of the autonomic nervous system and nitric oxide (NO). In 35 anesthetized pigs, IMD1-47, infused into the left anterior descending coronary artery at doses of 87.2 pmol/min, at constant heart rate and arterial blood pressure, augmented coronary blood flow and cardiac function. These responses were graded in a further five pigs by increasing the infused dose of IMD1-47 between 0.81 and 204.1 pmol/min. In the 35 pigs, the blockade of cholinergic receptors (intravenous atropine, 5 pigs), alpha-adrenoceptors (intravenous phentolamine, 5 pigs), and beta1-adrenoceptors (intravenous atenolol, 5 pigs) did not abolish the cardiac response to IMD1-47, the effects of which were prevented by blockade of beta2-adrenoceptors (intravenous butoxamine, 5 pigs), NO synthase (intracoronary N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, 5 pigs), and calcitonin-related receptors (intracoronary CGRP8-37/AM22-52, 10 pigs). In porcine coronary endothelial cells, IMD1-47 induced the phosphorylation of endothelial NO synthase and NO production through cAMP signaling leading to ERK, Akt, and p38 activation, which was prevented by the inhibition of beta2-adrenoceptors, calcitonin-related receptor complexes, and K+ channels. In conclusion, IMD1-47 primarily augmented coronary blood flow and cardiac function through the involvement of calcitonin-related receptor complexes and beta2-adrenoreceptor-mediated NO release. The intracellular signaling involved cAMP-dependent activation of kinases and the opening of K+ channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Grossini
- Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, via Solaroli 17, Novara I-28100, Italy.
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Zatschler B, Dieterich P, Müller B, Kasper M, Rauen U, Deussen A. Improved vessel preservation after 4 days of cold storage: Experimental study in rat arteries. J Vasc Surg 2009; 50:397-406. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvs.2009.04.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2008] [Revised: 04/24/2009] [Accepted: 04/26/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Abstract
The endothelium controls vascular tone not only by releasing NO and prostacyclin, but also by other pathways causing hyperpolarization of the underlying smooth muscle cells. This characteristic was at the origin of the term 'endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor' (EDHF). However, this acronym includes different mechanisms. Arachidonic acid metabolites derived from the cyclo-oxygenases, lipoxygenases and cytochrome P450 pathways, H(2)O(2), CO, H(2)S and various peptides can be released by endothelial cells. These factors activate different families of K(+) channels and hyperpolarization of the vascular smooth muscle cells contribute to the mechanisms leading to their relaxation. Additionally, another pathway associated with the hyperpolarization of both endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells contributes also to endothelium-dependent relaxations (EDHF-mediated responses). These responses involve an increase in the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration of the endothelial cells, followed by the opening of SK(Ca) and IK(Ca) channels (small and intermediate conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels respectively). These channels have a distinct subcellular distribution: SK(Ca) are widely distributed over the plasma membrane, whereas IK(Ca) are preferentially expressed in the endothelial projections toward the smooth muscle cells. Following SK(Ca) activation, smooth muscle hyperpolarization is preferentially evoked by electrical coupling through myoendothelial gap junctions, whereas, following IK(Ca) activation, K(+) efflux can activate smooth muscle Kir2.1 and/or Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase. EDHF-mediated responses are altered by aging and various pathologies. Therapeutic interventions can restore these responses, suggesting that the improvement in the EDHF pathway contributes to their beneficial effect. A better characterization of EDHF-mediated responses should allow the determination of whether or not new drugable targets can be identified for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
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