Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic profile of systemic nitric oxide-synthase inhibition with L-NMMA in humans

In vitro drug release profiling of Sirolimus polymeric microparticles coated long-acting stents

In the realm of arterial disease interventions, drug-eluting stents (DES) have become a vital therapeutic choice in preventing atherosclerotic plaque formation and restenosis and facilitating vessel healing. Sirolimus-encapsulated poly Lactic-co-Glycolic acid (PLGA) Microparticles (MPs) were developed using solvent evaporation. MPs were freeze-dried with a cryoprotectant and coated on the stent surface using an efficient and reproducible nitrogen-assisted spray coating technique. The MPs displayed a uniform distribution particle size of 4.38 ± 1.1 μm, span value of 0.88 ± 0.02, coating mass transfer efficiency of 13.45 ± 1.1 % on the stent, and a coating time of ≤ 2 min per stent. Post sterilization, the particle size and morphology of the coated stents remained unchanged. Accelerated in vitro drug release profiles were evaluated under different conditions, indicating significant influences based on dissolution methods ranging from 28.2 %±4.3 %, 42.5 %±5.3 %, 76.6 %±4.7 %, and 84.25 %±3.1 % for dialysis bag (DB), vessel simulating flow-through cell (vFTC), flow-through cell (FTC), and sample and separate (SS) technique respectively for 48 h. The drug release mechanism from the coated stents is governed by the combination of the Korsmeyer Peppas and Higuchi models. The developed dissolution method exhibited discriminative effectiveness when evaluated with critical formulation attributes and process parameter variations. The 48 h accelerated drug release studies correlated well with the 6-month real-time release rate with an R2 value of 0.9142 and Pearson's R2 of 0.9561. Ex-vivo studies demonstrated the permeation of MPs into artery tissues. Stability studies confirmed that MPs coated stents maintained desired properties at 4 °C and 30 °C/65 % RH for 6 months. Overall, these findings contribute to advancing stent technology, suggesting the potential for improvement of arterial interventions and enhanced patient outcomes.

Synthesis of Poly(L-lactide)-poly(ε-caprolactone)-poly(ethylene glycol) Terpolymer Grafted onto Partially Oxidized Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites for Drug Delivery

Nanocomposites prepared with a terpolymer of poly(L-lactide) (PLLA)-poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and partially oxidized carbon nanotubes (CNTspo) were synthesized and characterized to evaluate their ability to act as an effective nanocarrier of the anticancer drug methotrexate. The homopolymers of PLLA and PCL were synthesized through ring-opening polymerization (ROP) and characterized through gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The PLLA-PCL-PEG terpolymers were synthesized through a four-step chemical route using oxalyl chloride as a linker agent and analyzed with 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and FTIR spectroscopies. Additionally, the nanocomposites were characterized through FTIR, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), as well as the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) technique. XPS analysis revealed that PLLA-PCL-PEG terpolymer chains are grafted onto CNTspo. Moreover, evaluations through FTIR and DSC strongly suggest that the PCL-rich domains are preferentially oriented toward CNTspo. The release tests exhibited a "burst effect" profile, which was more evident in the terpolymers than in the nanocomposites. Five models were used to assess methotrexate's in vitro release. For the nanocomposites, the best fit to the experimental data was obtained using the first-order model, whereas the results obtained from the Korsmeyer-Peppas model indicated that Fickian diffusion drives methotrexate's release.

Evaluation of in vitro dissolution profiles of modified-release metoprolol succinate tablets crushed using mortar and pestle technique

PURPOSE

Clinical practice guidelines advise against crushing modified-release dosage forms. Metoprolol succinate modified-release (MS-MR) tablets are commonly crushed in clinical practice to facilitate administration to patients with swallowing difficulties or using feeding tubes. To date, the effect of this practice remains unexplored. The in vitro effects of crushing commercially available MS-MR tablets were explored using a holistic approach.

METHODS

Dissolution profiles of crushed versus whole MS-MR tablets were compared. Tablets were crushed to powder state using pragmatic method mimicking hospital practices. For standardization purposes, the same operator, duration (60 seconds), hand, and mortar-pestle apparatus were used. Dissolution studies were conducted per U.S. Pharmacopeia at pH 1.2, pH 4.5, and pH 6.8 with USP apparatus 2 (paddle) at rotation speed of 50 rpm at 37±0.5 °C in 500 mL dissolution media. Samples were withdrawn at predetermined time points. Percent drug dissolved was measured by validated UV-vis Spectrophotometry. Comprehensive analysis of the dissolution data was conducted using model-independent, model-dependent, and ANOVA-based approaches (SPSS v.23 at α=0.05). Similarity (f2) and difference (f1) factors were calculated to compare the dissolution profiles between crushed (CT) and whole tablets (WT). Goodness of fit (GOF) analysis examined the compliance between in vitro dissolution behaviors and several drug release models. Model selection was based on GOF plots, Akaike criteria and adjusted coefficient of determination (R2adj). Imaging and particle size distribution analysis were conducted to examine associated surface and morphologic changes.

RESULTS

The dissolution profiles were not similar at pH 4.5 (f2=45.43, f1=18.97) and pH 6.8 (f2=31.47, f1=32.94). CT best fitted with Higuchi (pH 1.2: R2adj=0.9990), Weibull (pH 4.5: R2adj=0.9884), and Korsmeyer-Peppas (pH 6.8: R2adj=0.9719). Contrastingly, WT best fitted with Hopfenberg (pH 1.2: R2adj=0.9986), logistic (pH 4.5: R2adj=0.9839) and first-order (pH 6.8: R2adj=0.9979) models. A significant difference in the dissolution profiles was found between CT and WT using multivariate analysis of variance per time points and between the tablet forms (p=0.004). This was confirmed by unparalleled dissolution profiles. Crushing resulted in variations in particle size and surface morphological changes to the micropellets.

CONCLUSION

Crushing practices change the dissolution profile of MS-MR tablets by deforming the surface morphology of embedded micropellets. Amounts of drug dissolved between CT and WT were not the same at the compared time points across gastrointestinal pH ranges. This suggests potential clinical impact on plasma-concentration profiles of critically ill patients using feeding tube.

Controlled Drug Release from Nanoengineered Polysaccharides

Polysaccharides are naturally occurring complex molecules with exceptional physicochemical properties and bioactivities. They originate from plant, animal, and microbial-based resources and processes and can be chemically modified. The biocompatibility and biodegradability of polysaccharides enable their increased use in nanoscale synthesis and engineering for drug encapsulation and release. This review focuses on sustained drug release studies from nanoscale polysaccharides in the fields of nanotechnology and biomedical sciences. Particular emphasis is placed on drug release kinetics and relevant mathematical models. An effective release model can be used to envision the behavior of specific nanoscale polysaccharide matrices and reduce impending experimental trial and error, saving time and resources. A robust model can also assist in translating from in vitro to in vivo experiments. The main aim of this review is to demonstrate that any study that establishes sustained release from nanoscale polysaccharide matrices should be accompanied by a detailed analysis of drug release kinetics by modeling since sustained release from polysaccharides not only involves diffusion and degradation but also surface erosion, complicated swelling dynamics, crosslinking, and drug-polymer interactions. As such, in the first part, we discuss the classification and role of polysaccharides in various applications and later elaborate on the specific pharmaceutical processes of polysaccharides in ionic gelling, stabilization, cross-linking, grafting, and encapsulation of drugs. We also document several drug release models applied to nanoscale hydrogels, nanofibers, and nanoparticles of polysaccharides and conclude that, at times, more than one model can accurately describe the sustained release profiles, indicating the existence of release mechanisms running in parallel. Finally, we conclude with the future opportunities and advanced applications of nanoengineered polysaccharides and their theranostic aptitudes for future clinical applications.

A phase 1/2 clinical trial of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NMMA and taxane for treating chemoresistant triple-negative breast cancer

[Figure: see text].

Nitric oxide contributes to cerebrovascular shear-mediated dilatation but not steady-state cerebrovascular reactivity to carbon dioxide

Cerebrovascular CO₂ reactivity (CVR) is often considered a bioassay of cerebrovascular endothelial function. We recently introduced a test of cerebral shear-mediated dilatation (cSMD) that may better reflect endothelial function. We aimed to determine the nitric oxide (NO)-dependency of CVR and cSMD. Eleven volunteers underwent a steady-state CVR test and transient CO₂ test of cSMD during intravenous infusion of the NO synthase inhibitor N^G -monomethyl-l-arginine (l-NMMA) or volume-matched saline (placebo; single-blinded and counter-balanced). We measured cerebral blood flow (CBF; duplex ultrasound), intra-arterial blood pressure and P aC O 2 . Paired arterial and jugular venous blood sampling allowed for the determination of trans-cerebral NO₂ ^- exchange (ozone-based chemiluminescence). l-NMMA reduced arterial NO₂ ^- by ∼25% versus saline (74.3 ± 39.9 vs. 98.1 ± 34.2 nM; P = 0.03). The steady-state CVR (20.1 ± 11.6 nM/min at baseline vs. 3.2 ± 16.7 nM/min at +9 mmHg P aC O 2 ; P = 0.017) and transient cSMD tests (3.4 ± 5.9 nM/min at baseline vs. -1.8 ± 8.2 nM/min at 120 s post-CO₂ ; P = 0.044) shifted trans-cerebral NO₂ ^- exchange towards a greater net release (a negative value indicates release). Although this trans-cerebral NO₂ ^- release was abolished by l-NMMA, CVR did not differ between the saline and l-NMMA trials (57.2 ± 14.6 vs. 54.1 ± 12.1 ml/min/mmHg; P = 0.49), nor did l-NMMA impact peak internal carotid artery dilatation during the steady-state CVR test (6.2 ± 4.5 vs. 6.2 ± 5.0% dilatation; P = 0.960). However, l-NMMA reduced cSMD by ∼37% compared to saline (2.91 ± 1.38 vs. 4.65 ± 2.50%; P = 0.009). Our findings indicate that NO is not an obligatory regulator of steady-state CVR. Further, our novel transient CO₂ test of cSMD is largely NO-dependent and provides an in vivo bioassay of NO-mediated cerebrovascular function in humans. KEY POINTS: Emerging evidence indicates that a transient CO₂ stimulus elicits shear-mediated dilatation of the internal carotid artery, termed cerebral shear-mediated dilatation. Whether or not cerebrovascular reactivity to a steady-state CO₂ stimulus is NO-dependent remains unclear in humans. During both a steady-state cerebrovascular reactivity test and a transient CO₂ test of cerebral shear-mediated dilatation, trans-cerebral nitrite exchange shifted towards a net release indicating cerebrovascular NO production; this response was not evident following intravenous infusion of the non-selective NO synthase inhibitor N^G -monomethyl-l-arginine. NO synthase blockade did not alter cerebrovascular reactivity in the steady-state CO₂ test; however, cerebral shear-mediated dilatation following a transient CO₂ stimulus was reduced by ∼37% following intravenous infusion of N^G -monomethyl-l-arginine. NO is not obligatory for cerebrovascular reactivity to CO₂ , but is a key contributor to cerebral shear-mediated dilatation.

Indomethacin-responsive headaches-A narrative review

BACKGROUND

Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug whose mechanism of action in certain types of headache disorders remains unknown. The so-called indomethacin-responsive headache disorders consist of a group of conditions with a very different presentation that have a particularly good response to indomethacin. The response is so distinct as to be used in the definition of two: hemicrania continua and paroxysmal hemicrania.

METHODS

This is a narrative literature review. PubMed and the Cochrane databases were used for the literature search.

RESULTS

We review the main pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties of indomethacin useful for daily practice. The proposed mechanisms of action of indomethacin in the responsive headache disorders, including its effect on cerebral blood flow and intracranial pressure, with special attention to nitrergic mechanisms, are covered. The current evidence for its use in primary headache disorders, such as some trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, cough, hypnic, exertional or sexual headache, and migraine will be covered, as well as its indication for secondary headaches, such as those of posttraumatic origin.

CONCLUSION

Increasing understanding of the mechanism(s) of action of indomethacin will enhance our understanding of the complex pathophysiology that might be shared by indomethacin-sensitive headache disorders.

Design of multicomponent indomethacin-paracetamol and famotidine loaded nanoparticles for sustained and effective anti-inflammatory therapy

Indomethacin is one of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are widely prescribed drug for pain and inflammation. However, its notoriety of causing gastrointestinal effect, low water solubility, and its short half-life would affect patient compliance and its oral absorption and accordingly justify the need to develop a formula with a controlled and sustained release manner in combination with anti-ulcer drugs. Herein, we synthesized indomethacin-paracetamol co-drug loaded in nanoemulsion and encapsulated in famotiditine loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles. The synthesis of the co-drug was achieved by the formation of a hydrolyzable ester between the indomethacin and paracetamol. The synthesized co-drug was preloading in nanoemulsion (Co-NE), which encapsulated into famotidine PCL nanoparticles utilizing the nanoprecipitation approach. The developed nanosystem showed hydrodynamic size less than 200 nm and the zeta potential value above -30 mV. TEM images confirmed the morphological structure of the formed nanoemulsion and the loaded PCL nanoparticles. Stability studies revealed that the developed nanosystem was stable at different temperatures and pHs over 1 month. Moreover, improvement of the solubilities of these three drugs leading to have a controlled-release multicomponent system of both co-drug and famotidine over 3 days. This multicomponent nanoparticle might be a potential platform to overcome the obstacles of NSAIDs, synergize drugs with different mechanisms of actions by co-encapsulating a small-sized nanoemulsion into PCL nanoparticles for reaching the goal of effective anti-inflammatory therapy.

Nitric oxide synthase inhibition with N(G)-monomethyl-l-arginine: Determining the window of effect in the human vasculature

Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition with N(G)-monomethyl-l-arginine (L-NMMA) is often used to assess the role of NO in human cardiovascular function. However, the window of effect for L-NMMA on human vascular function is unknown, which is critical for designing and interpreting human-based studies. This study utilized the passive leg movement (PLM) assessment of vascular function, which is predominantly NO-mediated, in 7 young male subjects under control conditions, immediately following intra-arterial L-NMMA infusion (0.24 mg⋅dl^-1⋅min^-1), and at 45-60 and 90-105 min post L-NMMA infusion. The leg blood flow (LBF) and leg vascular conductance (LVC) responses to PLM, measured with Doppler ultrasound and expressed as the change from baseline to peak (ΔLBF_peak and ΔLVC_peak) and area under the curve (LBF_AUC and LVC_ACU), were assessed. PLM-induced robust control ΔLBF_peak (1135 ± 324 ml⋅min^-1) and ΔLVC_peak (10.7 ± 3.6 ml⋅min^-1⋅mmHg^-1) responses that were significantly attenuated (704 ± 196 ml⋅min^-1 and 6.7 ± 2 ml⋅min^-1⋅mmHg^-1) immediately following L-NMMA infusion. Likewise, control condition PLM ΔLBF_AUC (455 ± 202 ml) and ΔLVC_AUC (4.0 ± 1.4 ml⋅mmHg^-1) were significantly attenuated (141 ± 130 ml and 1.3 ± 1.2 ml⋅mmHg^-1) immediately following L-NMMA infusion. However, by 45-60 min post L-NMMA infusion all PLM variables were not significantly different from control, and this was still the case at 90-105 min post L-NMMA infusion. These findings reveal that the potent reduction in NO bioavailability afforded by NOS inhibition with L-NMMA has a window of effect of less than 45-60 min in the human vasculature. These data are particularly important for the commonly employed approach of pharmacologically inhibiting NOS with L-NMMA in the human vasculature.

Nitric oxide is fundamental to neurovascular coupling in humans

KEY POINTS

Preclinical models have demonstrated that nitric oxide is a key component of neurovascular coupling; this has yet to be translated to humans. We conducted two separate protocols utilizing intravenous infusion of a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor and isovolumic haemodilution to assess the influence of nitric oxide on neurovascular coupling in humans. Isovolumic haemodilution did not alter neurovascular coupling. Intravenous infusion of a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor reduced the neurovascular coupling response by ∼30%, indicating that nitric oxide is integral to neurovascular coupling in humans.

ABSTRACT

Nitric oxide is a vital neurovascular signalling molecule in preclinical models, yet the mechanisms underlying neurovascular coupling (NVC) in humans have yet to be elucidated. To investigate the contribution of nitric oxide to NVC in humans, we utilized a visual stimulus paradigm to elicit an NVC response in the posterior cerebral circulation. Two distinct mechanistic interventions were conducted on young healthy males: (1) NVC was assessed during intravenous infusion of saline (placebo) and the non-selective competitive nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N^G -monomethyl-l-arginine (l-NMMA, 5 mg kg^-1 bolus & subsequent 50 μg kg^-1 min^-1 maintenance dose; n = 10). The order of infusion was randomized, counterbalanced and single blinded. A subset of participants in this study (n = 4) underwent a separate intervention with phenylephrine infusion to independently consider the influence of blood pressure changes on NVC (0.1-0.6 μg kg^-1 min^-1 constant infusion). (2) NVC was assessed prior to and following isovolumic haemodilution, whereby 20% of whole blood was removed and replaced with 5% human serum albumin to reduce haemoglobin concentration (n = 8). For both protocols, arterial and internal jugular venous blood samples were collected at rest and coupled with volumetric measures of cerebral blood flow (duplex ultrasound) to quantify resting cerebral metabolic parameters. l-NMMA elicited a 30% reduction in the peak (P = 0.01), but not average (P = 0.11), NVC response. Neither phenylephrine nor haemodilution influenced NVC. Nitric oxide signalling is integral to NVC in humans, providing a new direction for research into pharmacological treatment of humans with dementia.

In vivo biocompatibility and efficacy of dexamethasone-loaded PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel in an alkali-burn induced corneal neovascularization disease model

Challenges of ophthalmic drug delivery arise not only from the limited solubility of hydrophobic therapeutics, but also the restricted permeability and fast clearance of drugs due to the complex anatomy and physiology of eyes. Excellent biocompatibility of a thermosensitive polymer, PLGA-PEG-PLGA (1800-1500-1800, LA:GA ratio = 3:1), as an ophthalmic delivery system was demonstrated in our previous work. In this study, delivery of dexamethasone using this thermogel via a single subconjunctival injection for prolonged treatment was evaluated with corneal neovascularization using an alkali-burn diseased model in rat. Solubility of dexamethasone in the polymeric solution was increased by 5.2-fold and the resulting drug-loaded solution formed in situ rigid gel at body temperature. Prolonged in vitro release of dexamethasone from the gel structure was noted. Dexamethasone gel formulation was demonstrated to be more effective in reducing the burn stimulus and neovascularization in the rat diseased model. The findings suggest the PLGA-PEG-PLGA in situ gelling system can be applied for ophthalmic drug delivery to achieve sustained drug release and improved efficacy.

Interaction pattern and in vitro, in vivo release behavior of simvastatin-loaded chitosan nanoformulation

Objective and methods: This study predicted the nature of chitosan interactions and effects of this interaction on drug release mechanism in simvastatin-loaded chitosan nanoformulation using molecular docking, spectroscopic and thermal analysis. Significance: This work explains in depth the molecular mechanism of simvastatin and chitosan bond formation in nanoformulation. Results: The effective encapsulation and sustain release properties of chitosan were indicated by increase in melting endotherm of simvastatin. Intermolecular hydrogen bond between third hydroxyl group pyranone ring of simvastatin and amino group of chitosan represented the stability of active lactone moiety that was not cleaved during formulation which is prerequisite for biological activity. UV-vis spectroscopic characterization, shift in infrared vibration wavenumber of simvastatin and chitosan, ligand titration, 1HNMR and 13C-NMR analyses confirmed this interaction pattern. The pharmacokinetic evaluation in mouse model revealed the sustain release property of nanoformulation. Conclusion: Thus formation of intermolecular hydrogen bond in nanoformulation contributed to modified physicochemical properties and improved in vivo performance of simvastatin.

L-NAME releases nitric oxide and potentiates subsequent nitroglycerin-mediated vasodilation

L-N^G-Nitro arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) has been widely applied for several decades in both basic and clinical research as an antagonist of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Herein, we show that L-NAME slowly releases NO from its guanidino nitro group. Daily pretreatment of rats with L-NAME potentiated mesenteric vasodilation induced by nitrodilators such as nitroglycerin, but not by NO. Release of NO also occurred with the NOS-inactive enantiomer D-NAME, but not with L-arginine or another NOS inhibitor L-NMMA, consistent with the presence or absence of a nitro group in their structure and their nitrodilator-potentiating effects. Metabolic conversion of the nitro group to NO-related breakdown products was confirmed using isotopically-labeled L-NAME. Consistent with Fenton chemistry, transition metals and reactive oxygen species accelerated the release of NO from L-NAME. Both NO production from L-NAME and its nitrodilator-potentiating effects were augmented under inflammation. NO release by L-NAME can confound its intended NOS-inhibiting effects, possibly by contributing to a putative intracellular NO store in the vasculature.

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NOS-inhibitor L-NAME is also a precursor of NO.

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ROS releases NO from the nitro group of L-NAME via Fenton Chemistry.

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L-NAME potentates nitrodilator-mediated vasodilation.

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Nitroglycerin may cause vasodilation via activation of an intracellular NO store.

Potentiation of the NO-cGMP pathway and blood flow responses during dynamic exercise in healthy humans

PURPOSE

Previous work has shown nitric oxide (NO) contributes to ~15% of the hyperemic response to dynamic exercise in healthy humans. This NO-mediated vasodilation occurs, in part, via increases in intracellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which is catabolized by phosphodiesterase. We sought to examine the effect of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibition on forearm blood flow (FBF) responses to dynamic handgrip exercise in healthy humans and the role of NO. We hypothesized exercise hyperemia would be augmented by sildenafil citrate (SDF, PDE-5 inhibitor). We further hypothesized any effect of SDF on exercise hyperemia would be abolished with intra-arterial infusion of the NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor L-N^G-monomethyl arginine (L-NMMA).

METHODS

FBF (Doppler ultrasound) was assessed at rest and during 5 min of dynamic forearm handgrip exercise at 15% of maximal voluntary contraction under control (saline) conditions and during 3 experimental protocols: (1) oral SDF (n = 10), (2) intra-arterial L-NMMA (n = 20), (3) SDF and L-NMMA (n = 10). FBF responses to intra-arterial sodium nitroprusside (NTP, NO donor) were also assessed.

RESULTS

FBF increased with exercise (p < 0.01). Intra-arterial infusion of L-NMMA resulted in a reduction in exercise hyperemia (17 ± 1 to 15 ± 1 mL/dL/min, p < 0.01). Although the hyperemic response to NTP was augmented by SDF (area under the curve: 41 ± 7 vs 61 ± 11 AU, p < 0.01), there was no effect of SDF on exercise hyperemia (p = 0.33).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite improving NTP-mediated vasodilation, oral SDF failed to augment exercise hyperemia in young, healthy adults. These observations reflect a minor contribution of NO and the cGMP pathway during exercise hyperemia in healthy young humans.

Nitric oxide regulation of migrating motor complex: randomized trial of N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine effects in relation to muscarinic and serotonergic receptor blockade

AIM

The migrating motor complex (MMC) propels contents through the gastrointestinal tract during fasting. Nitric oxide (NO) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the gastrointestinal tract. Little is known about how NO regulates the MMC. In this study, the aim was to examine nitrergic inhibition of the MMC in man using N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) in combination with muscarinic receptor antagonist atropine and 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ondansetron.

METHODS

Twenty-six healthy volunteers underwent antroduodenojejunal manometry for 8 h with saline or NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor L-NMMA randomly injected I.V. at 4 h with or without atropine or ondansetron. Plasma ghrelin, motilin and somatostatin were measured by ELISA. Intestinal muscle strip contractions were investigated for NO-dependent mechanisms using L-NMMA and tetrodotoxin. NOS expression was localized by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

L-NMMA elicited premature duodenojejunal phase III in all subjects but one, irrespective of atropine or ondansetron. L-NMMA shortened MMC cycle length, suppressed phase I and shifted motility towards phase II. Pre-treatment with atropine extended phase II, while ondansetron had no effect. L-NMMA did not change circulating ghrelin, motilin or somatostatin. Intestinal contractions were stimulated by L-NMMA, insensitive to tetrodotoxin. NOS immunoreactivity was detected in the myenteric plexus but not in smooth muscle cells.

CONCLUSION

Nitric oxide suppresses phase III of MMC independent of muscarinic and 5-HT3 receptors as shown by nitrergic blockade, and acts through a neurocrine disinhibition step resulting in stimulated phase III of MMC independent of cholinergic or 5-HT3 -ergic mechanisms. Furthermore, phase II of MMC is governed by inhibitory nitrergic and excitatory cholinergic, but not 5-HT3 -ergic mechanisms.

Role of nitric oxide in optic nerve head blood flow regulation during an experimental increase in intraocular pressure in healthy humans

The present study set out to investigate whether nitric oxide, a potent vasodilator, is involved in the regulatory processes in optic nerve head blood flow during an experimental increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). The study was conducted in a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled, three way cross-over design. 12 healthy subjects were scheduled to receive either L-NMMA (an unspecific nitric oxide synthase inhibitor), phenylephrine (an α-adrenoceptor agonist) or placebo on three different study days. Optic nerve head blood flow was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry and IOP was increased stepwise with a suction cup. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and IOP were measured non-invasively and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) was calculated as OPP = 2/3 MAP-IOP. Administration of L-NMMA and phenylephrine significantly increased MAP and therefore OPP at rest (p < 0.01). L-NMMA significantly reduced baseline blood flow in the optic nerve head (p < 0.01). Application of the suction cup induced a significant increase in IOP and a decrease in OPP (p < 0.01). During the stepwise increase in IOP, some autoregulatory potential was observed until OPP decreased approximately -30% below baseline. None of the administered substances had an effect on this autoregulatory behavior (p = 0.49). The results of the present study confirm that the human optic nerve head shows some regulatory capacity during a decrease in OPP. Nitric oxide is involved in the regulation of basal vascular tone in the optic nerve head but does not seem to be involved in the regulatory mechanisms during an acute increase in IOP in young healthy subjects.

Exploration of statistical experimental design to improve entrapment efficiency of acyclovir in poly (d, l) lactide nanoparticles

OBJECTIVE

In current exploration, systematic attempts have been made to improve the entrapment efficiency of a model hydrophilic drug substance, i.e. acyclovir, in poly (d, l) lactide (PLA) nanoparticles (NPs) using a modified nanoprecipitation technique.

METHODS

Formulation parameters such as drug to polymer ratio, antisolvent selection, electrolyte (NaCl) addition, pH alteration and temperature were screened to improve the entrapment efficiency of acyclovir in PLA NPs. The temperature of the system (0-5 °C), phase volume ratio (1:2), stirring speed (2000 rpm), sonication time (5 min), etc. were kept constant during the preparation of NPs. Drug to polymer ratio and electrolyte addition emerged as critical formulation parameters affecting particle size as well as entrapment efficiency. Hence, in the present investigation a 3(2) full factorial design was used to investigate the combined influence of two factors, i.e. drug to polymer ratio (X1) and the amount of electrolyte, i.e. NaCl (X2) on particle size (Y1) and entrapment efficiency (Y2). The NPs were also evaluated for drug-excipient compatibility study by employing DSC and FT-IR analysis, whereas in vitro drug release studies were performed using dialysis bag technique in phosphate buffer pH 7.4.

RESULTS

Statistically significant models were evolved to predict entrapment efficiency and particle size. The effect of factors X1, X2 and [Formula: see text] was found to be statistically significant in nature. Response variables, i.e. entrapment efficiency and particle size, were simultaneously optimized using desirability function using Design Expert software. This process allowed the selection of most suitable level of factors to achieve desired level of particle size and entrapment efficiency. The results of multiple linear regression analysis revealed that for obtaining desirable particle size (less than 250 nm) and entrapment efficiency (more than 17%), the NPs should be prepared using 1:3 drug to polymer ratio and 0.04 M NaCl. Acyclovir was found to be compatible with PLA as indicated by DSC and FT-IR studies. The experimental values obtained from the optimized formulation highly agreed with the predicted values. The drug release from the optimized formulation exhibited biphasic pattern and the drug release kinetics was best explained by Weibull model.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, results of the present study demonstrated that PLA NPs with expected particle size and entrapment efficiency can be obtained by adopting the concept of quality by design.

Effect of NO synthase inhibition on retinal vessel reaction to isometric exercise in healthy humans

PURPOSE

It has been shown that retinal blood flow is autoregulated, meaning that flow is independent of perfusion pressure within a certain range. We tested the hypothesis that nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibition alters the response of retinal arterial and venous vessels during isometric exercise.

METHODS

In this study, nine healthy subjects were included. Each subject received the NO synthase inhibitor Ng-monomethyl-l-Arginine (l-NMMA, the α-receptor agonist phenylephrine or placebo intravenously on three study days. Retinal vessel diameter was assessed with the retinal vessel analyser (RVA), at baseline and during a squatting period of 6-7 min in absence or presence of l-NMMA, phenylephrine or placebo.

RESULTS

Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and pulse rate (PR) increased significantly during all pretreatment squatting periods (p < 0.001) Retinal venous and arterial diameters showed a continuous decrease during squatting (p < 0.001). Phenylephrine increased MAP and PR but did not alter the retinal vessel diameter response to squatting. Administration of l-NMMA lead to a significant decrease in venous diameter before isometric exercise (p = 0.004). In addition, the retinal venous diameter response during administration of the NO synthase inhibitor was less pronounced than during phenylephrine or placebo (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms that NO plays an important role in the control of retinal vascular tone at rest. In addition, the present data indicate a role of NO in retinal autoregulation, because the response of retinal venous diameters was altered after NO synthase inhibition. The nature of involvement, however, appears to be complex and requires further studies.

Sympathetic activation and nitric oxide function in early hypertension

The purpose of this study was to determine if tonic restrain of blood pressure by nitric oxide (NO) is impaired early in the development of hypertension. Impaired NO function is thought to contribute to hypertension, but it is not clear if this is explained by direct effects of NO on vascular tone or indirect modulation of sympathetic activity. We determined the blood pressure effect of NO synthase inhibition with N(ω)-monomethyl-l-arginine (L-NMMA) during autonomic blockade with trimethaphan to eliminate baroreflex buffering and NO modulation of autonomic tone. In this setting, impaired NO modulation of vascular tone would be reflected as a blunted pressor response to L-NMMA. We enrolled a total of 66 subjects (39 ± 1.3 yr old, 30 females), 20 normotensives, 20 prehypertensives (blood pressure between 120/80 and 140/90 mmHg), 17 hypertensives, and 9 smokers (included as "positive" controls of impaired NO function). Trimethaphan normalized blood pressure in hypertensives, suggesting increased sympathetic tone contributing to hypertension. In contrast, L-NMMA produced similar increases in systolic blood pressure in normal, prehypertensive, and hypertensive subjects (31 ± 2, 32 ± 2, and 30 ± 3 mmHg, respectively), whereas the response of smokers was blunted (16 ± 5 mmHg, P = 0.012). Our results suggest that sympathetic activity plays a role in hypertension. NO tonically restrains blood pressure by ∼30 mmHg, but we found no evidence of impaired modulation by NO of vascular tone contributing to the early development of hypertension. If NO deficiency contributes to hypertension, it is likely to be through its modulation of the autonomic nervous system, which was excluded in this study.

Neuronal nitric oxide synthase is involved in the induction of nerve growth factor-induced neck muscle nociception

BACKGROUND

Neck muscle nociception mediated by nitric oxide may play a role in the pathophysiology of tension-type headache.

OBJECTIVE

The present study addresses the involvement of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in the facilitation of neck muscle nociception after local application of nerve growth factor (NGF).

METHODS

After administration of NGF into semispinal neck muscles, the impact of neck muscle noxious input on brainstem processing was monitored by the jaw-opening reflex in anesthetized mice. The modulatory effect of preceding and subsequent administration of an inhibitor of neuronal nitric oxide synthase on central facilitation was addressed in a controlled study.

RESULTS

With preceding i.p. application of saline or 0.096 mg/kg of the specific nNOS inhibitor Nω-propyl-L-arginine (NPLA), NGF induced a sustained reflex facilitation within 60 minutes. Preceding injection of 0.96 mg/kg or 1.92 mg/kg NPLA completely prevented the potentially facilitatory effect of NGF. Subsequent administration of 0.96 mg/kg NPLA did not affect established NGF-evoked reflex facilitation. Thus, NPLA prevents facilitation of brainstem processing by noxious myofascial input from neck muscles in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that nNOS is involved in the induction but not the maintenance of NGF-evoked facilitation of nociception in the brainstem. These results from an experimental animal model may support the idea of NOS and nNOS as potential targets for pharmacological treatment of tension-type headache.

Inhibition of nNOS prevents and inhibition of iNOS reverses α,β-meATP-induced facilitation of neck muscle nociception in mice

Infusion of α,β-methylene ATP (α,β-meATP) into murine neck muscle facilitates brainstem nociception. Unspecific nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition prevents and reverses this sensitization. It is unclear whether neuronal (nNOS), inducible (iNOS) or endothelial NOS isoenzymes are involved in this α,β-meATP effect. Hypothesized involvement of nNOS isoenzyme was addressed by preceding (0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg) and subsequent (2 mg/kg) intraperitoneal injection of the nNOS-inhibitor NPLA. iNOS involvement was addressed by subsequent, intraperitoneal administration of the iNOS-inhibitor 1400 W (2 mg/kg). Brainstem nociception was monitored by the jaw-opening reflex elicited via electrical tongue stimulation in 45 anesthetized mice. Preceding NPLA dose-dependently prevented α,β-meATP-induced reflex facilitation. Whereas subsequent inhibition of nNOS showed no effect, iNOS inhibition by 1400 W significantly reversed reflex facilitation. Data provide evidence that nNOS plays a major role in induction and iNOS in maintenance of facilitation in neck muscle nociception. Divergent roles of NOS isoenzymes may promote research on target specific treatment for headache and neck muscle pain.

DDSolver: an add-in program for modeling and comparison of drug dissolution profiles

In recent years, several mathematical models have been developed for analysis of drug dissolution data, and many different mathematical approaches have been proposed to assess the similarity between two drug dissolution profiles. However, until now, no computer program has been reported for simplifying the calculations involved in the modeling and comparison of dissolution profiles. The purposes of this article are: (1) to describe the development of a software program, called DDSolver, for facilitating the assessment of similarity between drug dissolution data; (2) to establish a model library for fitting dissolution data using a nonlinear optimization method; and (3) to provide a brief review of available approaches for comparing drug dissolution profiles. DDSolver is a freely available program which is capable of performing most existing techniques for comparing drug release data, including exploratory data analysis, univariate ANOVA, ratio test procedures, the difference factor f (1), the similarity factor f (2), the Rescigno indices, the 90% confidence interval (CI) of difference method, the multivariate statistical distance method, the model-dependent method, the bootstrap f (2) method, and Chow and Ki's time series method. Sample runs of the program demonstrated that the results were satisfactory, and DDSolver could be served as a useful tool for dissolution data analysis.

Inhibition of nitric oxide synthases prevents and reverses alpha,beta-meATP-induced neck muscle nociception in mice

INTRODUCTION

Tension-type headache (TTH) is associated with noxious input from neck muscles. Intravenous administration of the unspecific nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NMMA in chronic TTH patients caused analgesia and reduction of neck muscle tenderness.

METHODS

The unspecific nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NMMA was applied in an experimental model for neck muscle nociception in anesthetized mice (N = 25).

RESULTS

Local injection of α,β-meATP into semispinal neck muscles induced sustained facilitation of brainstem nociception as monitored by the jaw-opening reflex. Preceding intraperitoneal administration of L-NMMA (0.05, 0.1, 1 mg/kg) prevented reflex facilitation evoked by α,β-meATP in a dose-dependent manner. Intraperitoneal injection of L-NMMA subsequent to intramuscular α,β-meATP application reversed established brainstem reflex facilitation back to baseline values.

DISCUSSION

Both experiments with preceding and subsequent L-NMMA indicate the involvement of nitric oxide synthases in the induction and maintenance of facilitation. However, future experiments will have to address the involvement of various isoenzymes in order to provide for new therapeutic concepts in TTH.

Nitric oxide synthase inhibitors in cardiogenic shock: present and future

Cardiogenic shock (CS) accompanying myocardial infarction carries a case fatality rate of 40-50%. Profound myocardial dysfunction is partially reversible, and possibly related to a state of inflammatory storm accompanied by nitric oxide (NO) overproduction. CS survivors enjoy satisfactory longevity and quality of life. The focus of this review is to describe the available data regarding NO synthase (NOS) inhibitors in CS. In view of supportive evidence from mammalian research (inducible-NOS-knockout mice are less susceptible to ischemic and reperfusion injury), therapies mitigating NO overproduction were tested in human CS subjects. Human randomized clinical trials project excellent safety but lack of efficacy. Although the Phase III, multicenter, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of Tilarginine Acetate (L-N(G)-monomethyl arginine citrate [L-NMMA]) in CS (TRIUMPH) trial demonstrated lack of clinical benefit of 5-h infusion of L-NMMA in CS, major design issues regarding the optimal timing, dosing, duration and NOS inhibitor need to be addressed prior to rendering this therapy ineffective.

Valsartan and retinal endothelial function in elderly hypertensive patients

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of short-term treatment with the angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) valsartan on retinal endothelial function in elderly patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension.

METHODS

In an open-labeled study, 20 elderly, male patients with arterial hypertension (WHO I-II) were treated with the ARB valsartan (80-160 mg once daily) over 8 days. Central retinal artery perfusion at rest and during flicker light stimulation was measured before and after treatment using pulsed wave Doppler sonography. Retinal capillary flow was assessed with scanning laser Doppler flowmetry at rest and following systemic infusion of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA).

RESULTS

While valsartan significantly lowered blood pressure, central retinal artery perfusion at rest as well as after flicker light stimulation was similar before and after treatment. Similarly, retinal capillary flow at rest and after infusion of L-NMMA did not change with valsartan after 7 days of treatment. Subgroup analysis revealed that changes in retinal capillary flow in response to L-NMMA might be dependent on serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels of study participants. After treatment with valsartan, retinal capillary flow in response to L-NMMA decreased more in patients with low (< 3.54 mmol/l) than with high LDL-cholesterol levels (-12.6 +/- 20.2% vs 12.3 +/- 19.5%, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Short-term treatment with valsartan did not improve retinal endothelial function in elderly hypertensive patients.

Regulation of alveolar gas conductance by NO in man, as based on studies with NO donors and inhibitors of NO production

AIM

Nitric oxide (NO) is a mediator of the pulmonary vessel tone and permeability. We hypothesized that it may also regulate the alveolar-capillary membrane gas conductance and lung diffusion capacity.

METHODS

In 20 healthy subjects (age = 23 +/- 3 years) we measured lung diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco), its determinants (membrane conductance, D(m), and pulmonary capillary blood volume, V(c)), systolic pulmonary artery pressure (PAPs) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). Measurements were performed before and after administration of N(g)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA, 0.5 mg kg(-1) min(-1)), as a NO production inhibitor, and L-arginine (L-Arg, 0.5 mg kg(-1) min(1)) as a NO pathway activator. The effects of L-NMMA were also tested in combination with active L-Arg and inactive stereoisomer D-Arg vehicled by 150 mL of 5%d-glucose solution. For L-Arg and L-NMMA, saline (150 mL) was also tested as a vehicle.

RESULTS

L-NMMA reduced D(m) (-41%P < 0.01), DLco (-20%, P < 0.01) and cardiac output (CO), and increased PAPs and PVR. In 10 additional subjects, a dose of L-NMMA of 0.03 mg kg(-1) min(1) infused in the main stem of the pulmonary artery was able to lower D(m) (-32%, P < 0.01) despite no effect on PVR and CO. D(m) depression was significantly greater when L-NMMA was vehicled by saline than by glucose. L-Arg but not D-Arg abolished the effects of L-NMMA. L-Arg alone increased D(m) (+14%, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate that NO mediates the respiratory effects of L-NMMA and L-Arg, and is involved in the physiology of the alveolar-capillary membrane gas conductance in humans. NO deficiency may cause an excessive endothelial sodium exchange/water conduction and fluid leakage in alveolar interstitial space, lengthening the air-blood path and depressing diffusion capacity.

Expert opinion on tilarginine in the treatment of shock

Tilarginine is L-N-monomethyl arginine (L-NMMA) or N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine HCL, a non-selective inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which has been studied in the treatment of septic shock and cardiogenic shock complicating myocardial infarction. Despite strong evidence that excessive nitric oxide (NO) production plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of septic shock and may contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiogenic shock complicating myocardial infarction, outcome studies in these two disorders have proved disappointing. L-NMMA therapy was associated with an excess mortality, particularly at doses > 5 mg/(kg h), in septic shock whereas the effects of a lower dose (1 mg/(kg h)) in cardiogenic shock complicating myocardial infarction were neutral. The excess mortality in patients with septic shock was almost certainly the result of unfavourable haemodynamic changes induced by L-NMMA (decreased cardiac output, increased pulmonary vascular resistance and reduced tissue oxygen delivery) whereas the lack of benefit in patients with cardiogenic shock complicating myocardial infarction may have been because the dose of L-NMMA was too low. Further studies of L-NMMA at doses < 5 mg/(kg h) in conjunction with inotrope support may produce more beneficial results. Conversely, the use of a selective inducible NOS inhibitor to reduce the pathological effects of excessive NO production although leaving the beneficial effects of vascular NO production by endothelial NOS unaltered may prove to be of value.

Impact of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene G894T polymorphism on renal endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Endothelial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress contribute to the progression of diabetic nephropathy. To analyze the functional significance of the G894T polymorphism of NOS3, the gene encoding endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS), we assessed basal nitric oxide activity and the amount of oxidative stress in the renal circulation of patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Renal plasma flow (RPF) was assessed by steady-state input clearance technique with sodium para-aminohippurate in 84 patients with type 2 diabetes and 84 patients without diabetes. RPF was measured at baseline and after the infusion of the NOS inhibitor N-monomethyl-L-arginine (4.25 mg/kg); the substrate of NOS L-arginine (100 mg/kg); and coinfusion of vitamin C (3 g) with L-arginine (100 mg/kg).

RESULTS

The decrease of RPF to N-monomethyl-L-arginine was similar between carriers of the T allele and homozygous carriers of the G allele in patients with diabetes (-56+/-40 vs. -68.1+/-74 ml/min/1.73 m, P=0.342) and patients without diabetes (-66.7+/-81 vs. -58.3+/-63 ml/min/1.73 m, P=0.606). In patients with diabetes, however, carriers of the T allele revealed a more pronounced increase of RPF to coinfusion of vitamin C with L-arginine than homozygous carriers of the G allele (61.8+/-75 vs. 22.3+/-73 ml/min/1.73 m, P=0.021), whereas in patients without diabetes the response of RPF to coinfusion of vitamin C with L-arginine was similar between both groups (46.2+/-80 vs. 70.7+/-86 ml/min/1.73 m, P=0.217). Gene-environment interaction between disease (diabetes) and genotype (genotype GG vs. genotype GT/TT) was observed for increase of RPF to coinfusion of vitamin C with L-arginine (P=0.020).

CONCLUSION

G894T polymorphism of NOS3 has no impact on the basal nitric oxide activity of renal circulation. In contrast, the T allele is associated with increased oxidative stress in the renal circulation in patients with diabetes suggesting a specific role of the G894T polymorphism in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.

Short-term hypoxia reduces arterial stiffness in healthy men

This study examined the effects of hypoxia (80% arterial oxyhaemoglobin saturation for 20 min) and the accompanying changes in heart rate and blood pressure on two components of arterial stiffness in healthy men. Augmentation index (AIx) and time to reflection (Tr) representing measures of muscular artery and aortic stiffness, respectively, were continuously measured. At first, subjects were exposed to either hypoxia (n = 12) or room air (n = 5). During early hypoxia AIx increased by 6% before decreasing to baseline. After hypoxia AIx decreased by a further 6%. In contrast there was no change in Tr. Six subjects were then exposed to hypoxia following infusion with the nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor NG-mono-methyl-L: -arginine (L-NMMA) or saline. During hypoxia AIx decreased by 12% following saline but increased by 14% after L-NMMA and Tr did not change. These findings suggest that hypoxia may induce NO-mediated vasodilatation of small muscular arteries but not the aorta.

Biphasic elevation of bilirubin oxidation during myocardial ischemia reperfusion

BACKGROUND

The time course of oxidative stress involving nitric oxide (NO) after myocardial ischemia reperfusion (MIR) has not been elucidated in detail, so the present study was designed to assess the dynamics of oxidative stress after MIR, urinary excretion of oxidized bilirubin metabolites (ie, biopyrrins) and their generation in various organs.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Rat models of MIR were created by occluding the left coronary artery for 30 min followed by 48 h of reperfusion. Levels of urinary biopyrrins increased biphasically at 8 h and 24 h after MIR. Biopyrrins were upregulated in the lungs at 8 h after MIR, according to immunohistochemistry and ELISA, and at 24 h biopyrrin expression was increased in the heart and lungs. The NO synthase inhibitor, NG-monomethyl-L-arginine, significantly diminished biopyrrin synthesis in the heart and lungs at 24 h, but not in the lungs at 8 h after MIR. Hemodynamic assessment revealed increased left ventricle end-diastolic pressure, suggesting that lung congestion influences pulmonary biopyrrin formation.

CONCLUSIONS

The dynamics of urinary biopyrrins might reflect earlier biopyrrin generation in the lungs and delayed formation in both the lungs and heart when NO is involved. Therefore, urinary biopyrrins can serve as a useful marker of systemic oxidative stress after MIR.

Reduction in alpha-adrenergic receptor-mediated vascular tone contributes to improved arterial compliance with endurance training

BACKGROUND

Regular aerobic exercise improves large artery compliance in middle-aged and older humans. However, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. We tested the hypothesis that the improved central arterial compliance with endurance training is mediated by decreased alpha-adrenergic tone and/or increased endothelial function.

METHODS

Seven sedentary healthy adults (60+/-3 years) underwent systemic alpha-adrenergic blockade (phentolamine) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition using N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine in sequence before and after a 3-month moderate endurance training (walk/jog, 4-5 days/week). Phentolamine was given first to isolate the contribution of nitric oxide to arterial compliance by minimizing reflex suppression of sympathetic tone resulting from systemic NOS inhibition as well as to assess the alpha-adrenergic receptor-mediated modulation of arterial compliance.

RESULTS

Baseline arterial compliance (via simultaneous ultrasound and applanation tonometry on the carotid artery) increased 34+/-12% after exercise training (P<0.01). When alpha-adrenergic blockade was performed, arterial compliance increased 37+/-6% (P<0.01) before the exercise training but did not change significantly after the training. Decreases in arterial compliance from the alpha-adrenergic blockade to the subsequent additional NOS blockade were not different before and after exercise training.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the reduction in alpha-adrenergic receptor-mediated vascular tone contributes to the improved central arterial compliance with endurance training.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide8-37 antagonizes capsaicin-induced vasodilation in the skin: evaluation of a human in vivo pharmacodynamic model

The purpose of this study was to identify the mediators involved in capsaicin-induced vasodilation in the human skin and to evaluate a pharmacodynamic model for the early clinical evaluation of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists. Dermal blood flow (DBF) response of the forearm skin to topically applied capsaicin was measured using laser Doppler perfusion imaging in 22 subjects. The effect of intra-arterially administered CGRP(8-37) (1200 ng . min(-1) . dl(-1) forearm), indomethacin (5 mug . min(-1) . dl(-1) forearm), and N(G)-monomethyl-l-arginine (l-NMMA; 0.2 mg . min(-1) dl(-1) forearm), and orally administered aprepitant (375 mg) on capsaicin-induced dermal vasodilation was assessed. Furthermore, the diurnal variation of the DBF response to capsaicin was studied. CGRP(8-37) inhibited the capsaicin-induced DBF increase: 217(145, 290)% in infused versus 370 (254, 486)% in the noninfused arm [mean (95% CI); p = 0.004]. In contrast, indomethacin, l-NMMA, aprepitant, and the time of assessment did not affect the DBF response to capsaicin. Thus, capsaicin-induced vasodilation in the human forearm skin is largely mediated by CGRP, but not by vasodilating prostaglandins, nitric oxide, or substance P. The response to capsaicin does not display a circadian rhythm. A pharmacodynamic model is proposed to evaluate CGRP receptor antagonists in humans in vivo.

Systemic alpha-adrenergic and nitric oxide inhibition on basal limb blood flow: effects of endurance training in middle-aged and older adults

Endurance training improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation, yet it does not increase basal blood flow in the legs. We determined the effects of a 3-mo aerobic exercise intervention on basal leg blood flow and alpha-adrenergic vasoconstriction and nitric oxide (NO) release in seven apparently healthy middle-aged and older adults (60 +/- 3 yr). Basal femoral artery blood flow (via Doppler ultrasound) (pretraining: 354 +/- 29; posttraining: 335 +/- 34 ml/min) and vascular conductance did not change significantly with the exercise training. Before the exercise intervention, femoral artery blood flow increased 32 +/- 16% with systemic alpha-adrenergic blockade (with phentolamine) (P < 0.05), and the addition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition using N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) did not affect femoral artery blood flow. After training was completed, femoral artery blood flow increased 47 +/- 7% with alpha-adrenergic blockade (P < 0.01) and then decreased 18 +/- 7% with the subsequent administration of L-NMMA (P < 0.05). Leg vascular conductance showed a greater alpha-adrenergic blockade-induced vasodilation (+1.7 +/- 0.5 to +3.0 +/- 0.5 units, P < 0.05) as well as NOS inhibition-induced vasoconstriction (-0.8 +/- 0.4 to -2.7 +/- 0.7 units, P < 0.05) after the exercise intervention. Resting plasma norepinephrine concentration significantly increased after the training. These results suggest that regular aerobic exercise training enhances NO bioavailability in middle-aged and older adults and that basal limb blood flow does not change with exercise training because of the contrasting influences of sympathetic nervous system activity and endothelium-derived vasodilation on the vasculature.

Relationship between muscle sympathetic nerve activity and systemic hemodynamics during nitric oxide synthase inhibition in humans

Large interindividual differences exist in resting sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) among normotensive humans with similar arterial pressure (AP). We recently showed inverse relationships of resting SNA with cardiac output (CO) and vascular adrenergic responsiveness that appear to balance the influence of differences in SNA on blood pressure. In the present study, we tested whether nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasodilation has a role in this balance by evaluating hemodynamic responses to systemic NO synthase (NOS) inhibition in individuals with low and high resting muscle SNA (MSNA). We measured MSNA via peroneal microneurography, CO via acetylene uptake and AP directly, at baseline and during increasing systemic doses of the NOS inhibitor NG-monomethyl-l-arginine (l-NMMA). Baseline MSNA ranged from 9 to 38 bursts/min (13 to 68 bursts/100 heartbeats). l-NMMA caused dose-dependent increases in AP and total peripheral resistance and reflex decreases in CO and MSNA. Increases in AP with l-NMMA were greater in individuals with high baseline MSNA ( PANOVA < 0.05). For example, after 8.5 mg/kg of l-NMMA, in the low MSNA subgroup ( n = 6, 28 ± 4 bursts/100 heartbeats), AP increased 9 ± 1 mmHg, whereas in the high-MSNA subgroup ( n = 6, 58 ± 3 bursts/100 heartbeats), AP increased 15 ± 2 mmHg ( P < 0.01). The high-MSNA subgroup had lower baseline CO and smaller decreases in CO with l-NMMA, but changes in total peripheral resistance were not different between groups. We conclude that differences in CO among individuals with varying sympathetic traffic have important hemodynamic implications during disruption of NO-mediated vasodilation.

EFFECT OF NOS INHIBITION ON RETINAL ARTERIAL AND CAPILLARY CIRCULATION IN EARLY ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION

BACKGROUND

Arterial hypertension is involved in the pathogenesis of end organ damage by influencing the ability of the vascular endothelium to produce nitric oxide (NO). This study analyzes changes of retinal and systemic NO-dependent circulation parameters by inhibiting nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in both hypertensive and normotensive individuals.

METHODS

In a double-blind crossover trial, 19 hypertensive patients (H, age 28.2 +/- 0.9 years) and 19 normotensive controls (N, age 26.9 +/- 0.9 years) were randomized treated either with candesartan or placebo. Both retinal capillary flow (RCF) and mean blood flow velocity of the central retinal artery (VCRA) were registered before and after NOS inhibition with N-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA, 3 mg/kg). In a subpopulation mean arterial pressure (MAP), cardiac output (CO), and the total peripheral resistance (TPR) were determined simultaneously.

RESULTS

Changes from baseline: In normotensive and hypertensive subjects infusion of L-NMMA led to an increase of MAP (N, +13.3 +/- 1.8%, P < 0.01; H, +14.3 +/- 2.4%, P < 0.01) and TPR (N, +36.9 +/- 3.8%, P < 0.01; H, +45.0 +/- 4.5%, P < 0.01), and to a decrease of CO (N, -21.1 +/- 1.5%, P < 0.01; H, -24.6 +/- 2.3%, P < 0.01). The L-NMMA effect on VCRA and RCF differed between controls and hypertensives. VCRA changed by + 17.3 +/- 6.2% (P < 0.05) and RCF by -7.3 +/- 3.0% (P < 0.05) in controls. In hypertensive subjects corresponding results were + 9.5 +/- 5.2% (P = NS) and + 2.7 +/- 3.8% (P = NS), respectively. The decrease of RCF due to L-NMMA was reduced in hypertension as compared to controls (P < 0.05). The calculated cross-sectional area of CRA was reduced by -58.7% in controls and increased by + 31.1% in hypertensive subjects. There was no significant correlation between the flow in the systemic and retinal circulation.

CONCLUSION

Only normotensives L-NMMA induces an acceleration of VCRA due to a probable vasoconstriction of the central retinal artery and despite of a reduced RCF. Already in early hypertension the NOS-dependent vascular tone in retinal arteries and capillaries is impaired. The regulation of the retinal capillary flow appeared to be independent from systemic circulation.

Nitric oxide synthase inhibition results in immediate postoperative recovery of gastric, small intestinal and colonic motility in awake rats

BACKGROUND

Nitric oxide (NO) is known to inhibit gastrointestinal motility. However, no detailed analysis of gastric, small intestinal and colonic motor effects, including effects on contraction frequency, has, as yet, been reported after NO inhibition in awake rats. We therefore investigated the effects of NO synthase inhibition on gastric, small intestinal and colonic motility in awake rats under baseline conditions and in a postoperative ileus model.

METHODS

In Sprague-Dawley rats, strain gauge transducers were sutured either to the gastric corpus, the small intestine or the colon. After 3 days, L-NMMA (NO synthase inhibitor), D-NMMA or vehicle was given i.v., while the motility was recorded continuously. In addition, postoperative gastric, small intestinal or colonic motility was investigated after L-NMMA or vehicle treatment prior to abdominal surgery. The motility index, the contraction amplitude, the area under the contraction amplitude and the contraction frequency were analysed.

RESULTS

L-NMMA decreased gastric motility to 60+/-8% for about 15 min, but continuously increased small intestinal motility to 221+/-22% and colonic motility to 125+/-7% compared to baseline (baseline=100%; p<0.01 for all comparisons). L-NMMA increased the contraction frequency throughout the gastrointestinal tract (stomach, 13+/-2%; small intestine, 8+/-1%; colon, 16+/-5%; p<0.01 vs. baseline for all comparisons). L-NMMA injection prior to surgery did not prohibit intraoperative inhibition of gastrointestinal motility, but did result in immediate recovery of gastric, small intestinal and colonic motility postoperatively (L-NMMA vs. vehicle, 0-60 min postoperatively; stomach, 90+/-9% vs. 53+/-3%; small intestine, 101+/-5% vs. 57+/-3%; colon, 134+/-6% vs. 60+/-5%; p<0.01 for all comparisons; no significant difference between preoperative baseline motility and L-NMMA treated rats postoperatively).

CONCLUSIONS

Under baseline conditions, endogenous NO inhibits small intestinal and colonic motility and gastric, small intestinal and colonic contraction frequency in awake rats. In the early postoperative period, endogenous NO is a major inhibitory component that seems to constitute the common final pathway of mediators and the neural pathways inhibiting gastrointestinal motility in rats.

Removal of tonic nitrergic inhibition is a potent stimulus for human proximal colonic propagating sequences

Propagating sequences (PS) are important in colonic propulsion and defecation, yet the triggers of these motor patterns are not understood. Nonadrenergic noncholinergic neurones are believed to modulate smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract via the ubiquitous inhibitory neurotransmitter nitric oxide (NO). In the mouse colon periods of quiescence correlate with an increase in the release of NO. We investigated the colonic response to NO synthase inhibition in the conscious human subject. Intravenous infusion of saline or N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA; 3 or 6 mg kg(-1) h(-1)) occurred in random order in six healthy volunteers in whom a 5 m long nasocolonic manometry catheter was positioned such that 16 recording sites, at 7.5-cm intervals, spanned the terminal ileum and colon. L-NMMA infusion at 3 mg kg(-1) h(-1), but not 6 mg kg(-1) h(-1) significantly (P = 0.02) increased proximal colonic PS frequency (2.0 +/- 1.9 vs 11.7 +/- 7.0 PS h(-1)) and non-propagating motor activity (5,296 +/- 2,750 vs 6,362 +/- 1,275 mmHg s). We conclude that blockade of NO synthesis has a stimulatory effect on the frequency of proximal colonic PS. This suggests removal of tonic nitrergic inhibition of the colon might be a physiological stimulus for propagating activity.

Combined treatment with a nonselective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (l-NMMA) and indomethacin increases ductus constriction in extremely premature newborns

Studies in premature animals suggest that 1) prolonged tight constriction of the ductus arteriosus is necessary for permanent anatomic closure and 2) endogenous nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins both play a role in ductus patency. We hypothesized that combination therapy with an NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor [N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA)] and indomethacin would produce tighter ductus constriction than indomethacin alone. Therefore, we conducted a phase I and II study of combined treatment with indomethacin and L-NMMA in newborns born at <28 weeks' gestation who had persistent ductus flow by Doppler after an initial three-dose prophylactic indomethacin course (0.2, 0.1, 0.1 mg/kg/24 h). Twelve infants were treated with the combined treatment protocol [three additional indomethacin doses (0.1 mg/kg/24 h) plus a 72-hour L-NMMA infusion]. Thirty-eight newborns received three additional indomethacin doses (without L-NMMA) and served as a comparison group. Ninety-two percent (11/12) of the combined treatment group had tight ductus constriction with elimination of Doppler flow. In contrast, only 42% (16/38) of the comparison group had a similar degree of constriction. L-NMMA infusions were limited in dose and duration by acute side effects. Doses of 10-20 mg/kg/h increased serum creatinine and systemic blood pressure. At 5 mg/kg/h, serum creatinine was stable but systemic hypertension still limited L-NMMA dose. We conclude that combined inhibition of NO and prostaglandin synthesis increased the degree of ductus constriction in newborns born at <28 weeks' gestation. However, the combined administration of L-NMMA and indomethacin was limited by acute side effects in this treatment protocol.

Effects of nitric oxide synthase inhibitor on decrease in peripheral arterial stiffness with acute low-intensity aerobic exercise

We previously reported that even low-intensity, short-duration acute aerobic exercise decreases arterial stiffness. We aimed to test the hypothesis that the exercise-induced decrease in arterial stiffness is caused by the increased production of NO in vascular endothelium with exercise. Nine healthy men (age: ∼22–28 yr) performed a 5-min single-leg cycling exercise (30 W) in the supine position under an intravenous infusion of NG-monomethyl-l-arginine (l-NMMA; 3 mg/kg during the initial 5 min and subsequent continuous infusion of 50 μg·kg−1·min−1 in saline) or vehicle (saline) in random order on separate days. The pulse wave velocity (PWV) from the femoral to posterior tibial artery was measured on both legs before and after the infusion at rest and 2 min after exercise. Under the control condition, exercised leg PWV significantly decreased after exercise ( P < 0.05), whereas nonexercised leg PWV did not show a significant change throughout the experiment. Under l-NMMA administration, exercised leg PWV was increased significantly by the infusion ( P < 0.05) but decreased significantly after the exercise ( P < 0.05). Nonexercised leg PWV increased with l-NMMA administration and maintained a significantly higher level during the administration compared with baseline (before the infusion, all P < 0.05). The NO synthase blockade × time interaction on exercised leg PWV was not significant ( P = 0.706). These results suggest that increased production of NO is not a major factor in the decrease of regional arterial stiffness with low-intensity, short-duration aerobic exercise.

Increased response of renal perfusion to the antioxidant vitamin C in type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Reactive oxygen species play a major role in the development of endothelial dysfunction. It is as yet unspecified whether increased oxidative stress contributes to endothelial dysfunction of the renal vasculature in patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Renal haemodynamics were studied in 20 patients with type 2 diabetes and arterial hypertension (age 62 +/- 5 years) and 20 non-diabetic hypertensive patients at baseline and following infusions of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA; 4.25 mg/kg); the substrate of nitric oxide synthase, L-arginine (100 mg/kg); and the antioxidant, vitamin C (3 g, co-infused with L-arginine 100 mg/kg).

RESULTS

The response of renal plasma flow (RPF) to L-NMMA (-54 +/- 62 and -45 +/- 42 ml/min/1.73 m(2); P = NS) and L-arginine (+46 +/- 36 and +49 +/- 25 ml/min/1.73 m(2); P = NS) was not different between diabetic and non-diabetic patients. In contrast, vitamin C induced a more pronounced increase in RPF in diabetic than in non-diabetic patients when co-infused with L-arginine (+71+/-47 and +43+/-33 ml/min/1.73 m(2); P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The difference in the response of renal perfusion to an antioxidant suggests increased formation of reactive oxygen species and thereby reduced nitric oxide bioavailability in the renal vasculature of patients with type 2 diabetes.

Emerging role of nitrite in human biology

Nitric oxide (NO) plays a fundamental role in maintaining normal vascular function. NO is produced by endothelial cells and diffuses both into smooth muscle causing vasodilation and into the vessel lumen where the majority of this highly potent gas is rapidly inactivated by dioxygenation reaction with oxyhemoglobin to form nitrate. Diffusional barriers for NO around the erythrocyte and along the endothelium in laminar flowing blood reduce the inactivation reaction of NO by hemoglobin, allowing sufficient NO to escape for vasodilation and also to react in plasma and tissues to form nitrite anions (NO(2)(-)) and NO-modified peptides and proteins (RX-NO). Several recent studies have highlighted the importance of the nitrite anion in human biology. These studies have shown that measurement of plasma nitrite is a sensitive index of constitutive NO synthesis, suggesting that it may be useful as a marker of endothelial function. Additionally, recent evidence suggests that nitrite represents a circulating storage pool of NO and may selectively donate NO to hypoxic vascular beds. The conversion of nitrite to NO requires a reaction with a deoxygenated heme protein, suggesting a novel function of hemoglobin as a deoxygenation-dependent nitrite reductase. This review focuses on the role of nitrite as a circulating NO donor, its potential as an index of NO synthase (NOS) activity and endothelial function, and discusses potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Impaired endothelial function of the retinal vasculature in hypertensive patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Arterial hypertension constitutes a central factor in the pathogenesis of stroke. We examined endothelial function of the retinal vasculature as a model of the cerebral circulation.

METHODS

Thirty-eight young subjects (19 hypertensive and 19 normotensive) were treated with the AT1-receptor blocker candesartan cilexetil and placebo, each over 7 days. Retinal capillary flow and blood flow velocity in the central retinal artery were assessed with scanning laser Doppler flowmetry and pulsed Doppler ultrasound, respectively. N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) was infused to inhibit nitric oxide (NO) synthesis. Diffuse luminance flicker was applied to stimulate NO release.

RESULTS

In normotensive subjects, L-NMMA decreased retinal capillary flow by 8.2%+/-13% (P<0.05) and flickering light increased mean blood flow velocity in the central retinal artery by 19%+/-29% (P<0.01). In contrast, no significant change to these provocative tests was seen in hypertensive subjects. Treatment with candesartan cilexetil restored a normal pattern of reactivity in retinal capillaries (l-NMMA: decrease in perfusion by 10%+/-17%, P<0.05) and the central retinal artery (flicker: increase in mean blood flow velocity by 42%+/-31%, P<0.001) in hypertensive patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Endothelial function of the retinal vasculature is impaired in early essential hypertension but can be improved by AT1-receptor blockade.

Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase does not alter dynamic cerebral autoregulation in humans

The aim of this study was to determine whether inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) alters dynamic cerebral autoregulation in humans. Beat-to-beat blood pressure (BP) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) velocity (transcranial Doppler) were measured in eight healthy subjects in the supine position and during 60 degrees head-up tilt (HUT). NOS was inhibited by intravenous NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) infusion. Dynamic cerebral autoregulation was quantified by transfer function analysis of beat-to-beat changes in BP and CBF velocity. Pressor effects of L-NMMA on cerebral hemodynamics were compared with those of phenylephrine infusion. In the supine position, L-NMMA increased mean BP from 83+/-3 to 94+/-3 mmHg (P < 0.01). However, CBF velocity remained unchanged. Consequently, cerebrovascular resistance index (CVRI) increased by 15% (P < 0.05). BP and CBF velocity variability and transfer function gain at the low frequencies of 0.07-0.20 Hz did not change with L-NMMA infusion. Similar changes in mean BP, CBF velocity, and CVRI were observed after phenylephrine infusion, suggesting that increase in CVRI after L-NMMA was mediated myogenically by increase in arterial pressure rather than a direct effect of cerebrovascular NOS inhibition. During baseline tilt without L-NMMA, steady-state BP increased and CBF velocity decreased. BP and CBF velocity variability at low frequencies increased in parallel by 277% and 217%, respectively (P < 0.05). However, transfer function gain remained unchanged. During tilt with L-NMMA, changes in steady-state hemodynamics and BP and CBF velocity variability as well as transfer gain and phase were similar to those without L-NMMA. These data suggest that inhibition of tonic production of NO does not appear to alter dynamic cerebral autoregulation in humans.

Nitric oxide synthase inhibition does not affect regulation of muscle sympathetic nerve activity during head-up tilt

To test the hypothesis that systemic inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) synthase does not alter the regulation of sympathetic outflow during head-up tilt in humans, in eight healthy subjects NO synthase was blocked by intravenous infusion of NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA). Blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output, total peripheral resistance (TPR), and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) were recorded in the supine position and during 60 degrees head-up tilt. In the supine position, infusion of L-NMMA increased blood pressure, via increased TPR, and inhibited MSNA. However, the increase in MSNA evoked by head-up tilt during L-NMMA infusion (change in burst rate: 24 +/- 4 bursts/min; change in total activity: 209 +/- 36 U/min) was similar to that during head-up tilt without L-NMMA (change in burst rate: 23 +/- 4 bursts/min; change in total activity: 251 +/- 52 U/min, n = 6, all P > 0.05). Moreover, changes in TPR and heart rate during head-up tilt were virtually identical between the two conditions. These results suggest that systemic inhibition of NO synthase with L-NMMA does not affect the regulation of sympathetic outflow and vascular resistance during head-up tilt in humans.