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Tucker SM, Essajee SI, Warne CM, Dick GM, Heard MP, Crowe N, Goulopoulou S, Tune JD. Impaired balance between coronary blood flow and myocardial metabolism in postpartum swine. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2024; 194:96-104. [PMID: 38971217 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2024.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Understanding of the mechanisms contributing to the increased maternal susceptibility for major adverse cardiovascular events in the postpartum period remains poor. Accordingly, this study tested the hypothesis that the balance between coronary blood flow and myocardial metabolism is compromised during the puerperium period (35-45 days post-delivery) in swine. Systemic and coronary hemodynamic responses were assessed in anesthetized, open-chest control (nonpregnant) and puerperium/postpartum swine at baseline and in response to intravenous infusion of dobutamine (1-30 μg/kg/min). Blood pressure and heart rate were lower in postpartum swine at baseline and in response to dobutamine (P < 0.05). Coronary blood flow and myocardial oxygen delivery were significantly diminished at baseline in postpartum swine (P < 0.001), which corresponded with ∼35% reduction in myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2) (P < 0.001). Postpartum swine displayed enhanced retrograde coronary flow, larger cardiomyocyte area (P < 0.01) and marked capillary rarefaction (P < 0.01). The relationship between coronary blood flow and heart rate (P < 0.05) or MVO2 (P < 0.001) was significantly diminished in postpartum swine as dobutamine increased MVO2 up to ∼135% in both groups. This reduction in myocardial perfusion was associated with decreases in myocardial lactate uptake (P < 0.001), increases in coronary venous PCO2 (P < 0.01) and decreased coronary venous pH (P < 0.01). These findings suggest an impaired balance between coronary blood flow and myocardial metabolism could contribute to the increased incidence of maternal myocardial ischemia and premature death in the postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina M Tucker
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States of America
| | - Salman I Essajee
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States of America
| | - Cooper M Warne
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States of America
| | - Gregory M Dick
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States of America
| | - Michael P Heard
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States of America
| | - Nicole Crowe
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States of America
| | - Styliani Goulopoulou
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Departments of Basic Sciences, Gynecology and Obstetrics Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States of America
| | - Johnathan D Tune
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States of America.
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2
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Osikoya O, Hula N, da Silva RDNO, Goulopoulou S. Perivascular Adipose Tissue and Uterine Artery Adaptations to Pregnancy. Microcirculation 2024; 31:e12857. [PMID: 38826057 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Pregnancy is characterized by longitudinal maternal, physiological adaptations to support the development of a fetus. One of the cardinal maternal adaptations during a healthy pregnancy is a progressive increase in uterine artery blood flow. This facilitates sufficient blood supply for the development of the placenta and the growing fetus. Regional hemodynamic changes in the uterine circulation, such as a vast reduction in uterine artery resistance, are mainly facilitated by changes in uterine artery reactivity and myogenic tone along with remodeling of the uterine arteries. These regional changes in vascular reactivity have been attributed to pregnancy-induced adaptations of cell-to-cell communication mechanisms, with an emphasis on the interaction between endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells. Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is considered the fourth layer of the vascular wall and contributes to the regulation of vascular reactivity in most vascular beds and most species. This review focuses on mechanisms of uterine artery reactivity and the role of PVAT in pregnancy-induced maternal vascular adaptations, with an emphasis on the uterine circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatobiloba Osikoya
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
| | - Nataliia Hula
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Renée de Nazaré Oliveira da Silva
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Styliani Goulopoulou
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA
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3
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Kumar S, Song R, Mishra JS. Elevated gestational testosterone impacts vascular and uteroplacental function. Placenta 2023:S0143-4004(23)00598-2. [PMID: 37977936 PMCID: PMC11087376 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Maternal vascular adaptations to establish an adequate blood supply to the uterus and placenta are essential for optimal nutrient and oxygen delivery to the developing fetus in eutherian mammals, including humans. Numerous factors contribute to maintaining appropriate hemodynamics and placental vascular development throughout pregnancy. Failure to achieve or sustain these pregnancy-associated changes in women is strongly associated with an increased risk of antenatal complications, such as preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. The precise etiology of preeclampsia is unknown, but emerging evidence points to a potential role for androgens. The association between androgens and maternal cardiovascular and placental function merits particular attention due to the notable 2- to 3-fold elevated plasma testosterone (T) levels observed in preeclampsia. T levels in preeclamptic women positively correlate with vascular dysfunction, and preeclampsia is associated with increased androgen receptor (AR) levels in placental tissues. Moreover, animal studies replicating the pattern and magnitude of T increase observed in preeclamptic pregnancies have reproduced key features of preeclampsia, including gestational hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, heightened vasoconstriction to angiotensin II, impaired spiral artery remodeling, placental hypoxia, reduced nutrient transport, and fetal growth restriction. Collectively, these findings suggest that AR-mediated activity plays a significant role in the clinical presentation of preeclampsia. This review critically evaluates this hypothesis, considering both clinical and preclinical evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sathish Kumar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53706, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53792, USA.
| | - Ruolin Song
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Jay S Mishra
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
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4
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Chuaiphichai S, Dickinson Y, Whiteman CAR, Au-Yeung D, McNeill E, Channon KM, Douglas G. Endothelial cell vasodilator dysfunction mediates progressive pregnancy-induced hypertension in endothelial cell tetrahydrobiopterin deficient mice. Vascul Pharmacol 2023; 150:107168. [PMID: 36966985 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2023.107168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Pregnancy-associated vascular remodelling is essential for both maternal and fetal health. We have previously shown that maternal endothelial cell tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) deficiency causes poor pregnancy outcomes. Here, we investigated the role and mechanisms of endothelial cell-mediated vasorelaxation function in these outcomes. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The vascular reactivity of mouse aortas and uterine arteries from non-pregnant and pregnant endothelial cell-specific BH4 deficient mice (Gch1fl/flTie2cre mice) was assessed by wire myography. Systolic blood pressure was assessed by tail cuff plethysmography. KEY RESULTS In late pregnancy, systolic blood pressure was significantly higher (∼24 mmHg) in Gch1fl/flTie2cre mice compared with wild-type littermates. This was accompanied by enhanced vasoconstriction and reduced endothelial-dependent vasodilation in both aorta and uterine arteries from pregnant Gch1fl/flTie2cre mice. In uterine arteries loss of eNOS-derived vasodilators was partially compensated by upregulation of intermediate and large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels. In rescue experiments, oral BH4 supplementation alone did not rescue vascular dysfunction and pregnancy-induced hypertension in Gch1fl/flTie2cre mice. However, combination with the fully reduced folate, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), restored endothelial cell vasodilator function and blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS We identify a critical requirement for maternal endothelial cell Gch1/BH4 biosynthesis in endothelial cell vasodilator function in pregnancy. Targeting vascular Gch1 and BH4 biosynthesis with reduced folates may provide a novel therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of pregnancy-related hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surawee Chuaiphichai
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
| | - Yasmin Dickinson
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Christopher A R Whiteman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Desson Au-Yeung
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Eileen McNeill
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Keith M Channon
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Gillian Douglas
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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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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Dela Justina V, Dos Passos Júnior RR, Lima VV, Giachini FR. Evidence of Nitric Oxide Impairment During Hypertensive Pregnancies. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1428:99-125. [PMID: 37466771 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-32554-0_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy complicate up to 10% of pregnancies worldwide, and they can be classified into (1) gestational hypertension, (2) preeclampsia, (3) chronic hypertension and (4) chronic hypertension with preeclampsia. Nitric oxide (NO) plays an essential role in the haemodynamic adaptations observed during pregnancy. It has been shown that the nitric oxide pathway's dysfunction during pregnancy is associated with placental- and vascular-related diseases such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. This review aims to present a brief definition of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and physiological maternal cardiovascular adaptations during pregnancy. We also detail how NO signalling is altered in the (a) systemic vasculature, (b) uterine artery/spiral arteries, (c) implantation and (d) placenta of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. We conclude by summarizing the anti-hypertensive therapy of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy as a specific management strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Dela Justina
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Rinaldo Rodrigues Dos Passos Júnior
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
- Institute of Health Sciences and Health, Universidad Federal De Mato Grosso, Barra do Garcas, Brazil
| | - Victor Vitorino Lima
- Institute of Health Sciences and Health, Universidad Federal De Mato Grosso, Barra do Garcas, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Regina Giachini
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
- Institute of Health Sciences and Health, Universidad Federal De Mato Grosso, Barra do Garcas, Brazil
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de Alwis N, Binder NK, Beard S, Mangwiro YTM, Kadife E, Cuffe JSM, Keenan E, Fato BR, Kaitu’u-Lino TJ, Brownfoot FC, Marshall SA, Hannan NJ. The L-NAME mouse model of preeclampsia and impact to long-term maternal cardiovascular health. Life Sci Alliance 2022; 5:5/12/e202201517. [PMID: 36260752 PMCID: PMC9356384 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202201517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia affects ∼2–8% of pregnancies worldwide. It is associated with increased long-term maternal cardiovascular disease risk. This study assesses the effect of the vasoconstrictor N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) in modelling preeclampsia in mice, and its long-term effects on maternal cardiovascular health. In this study, we found that L-NAME administration mimicked key characteristics of preeclampsia, including elevated blood pressure, impaired fetal and placental growth, and increased circulating endothelin-1 (vasoconstrictor), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (anti-angiogenic factor), and C-reactive protein (inflammatory marker). Post-delivery, mice that received L-NAME in pregnancy recovered, with no discernible changes in measured cardiovascular indices at 1-, 2-, and 4-wk post-delivery, compared with matched controls. At 10-wk post-delivery, arteries collected from the L-NAME mice constricted significantly more to phenylephrine than controls. In addition, these mice had increased kidney Mmp9:Timp1 and heart Tnf mRNA expression, indicating increased inflammation. These findings suggest that though administration of L-NAME in mice certainly models key characteristics of preeclampsia during pregnancy, it does not appear to model the adverse increase in cardiovascular disease risk seen in individuals after preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha de Alwis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Therapeutics Discovery and Vascular Function Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Natalie K Binder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Therapeutics Discovery and Vascular Function Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Sally Beard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Therapeutics Discovery and Vascular Function Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Yeukai TM Mangwiro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Therapeutics Discovery and Vascular Function Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Elif Kadife
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Obstetrics Diagnostics and Therapeutics Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - James SM Cuffe
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Emerson Keenan
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Obstetrics Diagnostics and Therapeutics Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Bianca R Fato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Therapeutics Discovery and Vascular Function Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Tu’uhevaha J Kaitu’u-Lino
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Diagnostics Discovery and Reverse Translation in Pregnancy Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Fiona C Brownfoot
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Obstetrics Diagnostics and Therapeutics Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - Sarah A Marshall
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Ritchie Centre, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University and The Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Natalie J Hannan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Therapeutics Discovery and Vascular Function Group, The University of Melbourne and Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Australia
- Mercy Perinatal, Heidelberg, Australia
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8
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Doan TNA, Bianco-Miotto T, Parry L, Winter M. The role of angiotensin II and relaxin in vascular adaptation to pregnancy. Reproduction 2022; 164:R87-R99. [PMID: 36018774 DOI: 10.1530/rep-21-0428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In brief There is a pregnancy-induced vasodilation of blood vessels, which is known to have a protective effect on cardiovascular function and can be maintained postpartum. This review outlines the cardiovascular changes that occur in a healthy human and rodent pregnancy, as well as different pathways that are activated by angiotensin II and relaxin that result in blood vessel dilation. Abstract During pregnancy, systemic and uteroplacental blood flow increase to ensure an adequate blood supply that carries oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus. This results in changes to the function of the maternal cardiovascular system. There is also a pregnancy-induced vasodilation of blood vessels, which is known to have a protective effect on cardiovascular health/function. Additionally, there is evidence that the effects of maternal vascular vasodilation are maintained post-partum, which may reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure in the next pregnancy and reduce cardiovascular risk later in life. At both non-pregnant and pregnant stages, vascular endothelial cells produce a number of vasodilators and vasoconstrictors, which transduce signals to the contractile vascular smooth muscle cells to control the dilation and constriction of blood vessels. These vascular cells are also targets of other vasoactive factors, including angiotensin II (Ang II) and relaxin. The binding of Ang II to its receptors activates different pathways to regulate the blood vessel vasoconstriction/vasodilation, and relaxin can interact with some of these pathways to induce vasodilation. Based on the available literature, this review outlines the cardiovascular changes that occur in a healthy human pregnancy, supplemented by studies in rodents. A specific focus is placed on vasodilation of blood vessels during pregnancy; the role of endothelial cells and endothelium-derived vasodilators will also be discussed. Additionally, different pathways that are activated by Ang II and relaxin that result in blood vessel dilation will also be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thu Ngoc Anh Doan
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Tina Bianco-Miotto
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Laura Parry
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Marnie Winter
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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9
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Pasha M, Kirschenman R, Wooldridge A, Spaans F, Cooke CLM, Davidge ST. The Effect of Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid (TUDCA) Treatment on Pregnancy Outcomes and Vascular Function in a Rat Model of Advanced Maternal Age. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11071275. [PMID: 35883766 PMCID: PMC9312116 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11071275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced maternal age (≥35 years) increases the risk of vascular complications in pregnancy that can result in fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes in these complicated pregnancies. However, the role of ER stress in advanced maternal age is not known. We hypothesize that increased ER stress contributes to altered vascular function and poor pregnancy outcomes, and that treatment with the ER-stress inhibitor TUDCA will improve pregnancy outcomes. First, young and aged non-pregnant/pregnant rats were used to assess ER stress markers in mesenteric arteries; mesenteric artery phospho-eIF2α and CHOP expression were increased in aged dams compared to young dams. In a second study, young and aged control and TUDCA-treated dams were studied on gestational day (GD) 20 (term = 22 days). TUDCA treatment was provided via the drinking water throughout pregnancy (GD0-GD20; calculated dose of 150 mg/kg/day TUDCA). ER stress markers were quantified in mesenteric arteries, blood pressure was measured, pregnancy outcomes were recorded, mesenteric and main uterine arteries were isolated and vascular function was assessed by wire myography. Aged dams had increased phospho-eIF2α and CHOP expression, reduced fetal weight, reduced litter size, and impaired uterine artery relaxation. In the aged dams, TUDCA treatment reduced phospho-eIF2α and CHOP expression, reduced blood pressure, improved fetal body weight, and tended to improve uterine artery function compared to control-treated aged dams. In conclusion, our data illustrate the role of ER stress, as well as TUDCA as a potential therapeutic that may benefit pregnancy outcomes in advanced maternal age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazhar Pasha
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Raven Kirschenman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Amy Wooldridge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Christy-Lynn M. Cooke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Sandra T. Davidge
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-780-492-1864; Fax: +1-780-492-1308
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10
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Fulghum KL, Smith JB, Chariker J, Garrett LF, Brittian KR, Lorkiewicz P, McNally LA, Uchida S, Jones SP, Hill BG, Collins HE. Metabolic Signatures of Pregnancy-Induced Cardiac Growth. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2022; 323:H146-H164. [PMID: 35622533 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00105.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to develop an atlas of the metabolic, transcriptional, and proteomic changes that occur with pregnancy in the maternal heart. Timed pregnancy studies in FVB/NJ mice revealed significant increases in heart size by day 8 of pregnancy (mid-pregnancy; MP), which was sustained throughout the rest of the term compared with non-pregnant controls. Cardiac hypertrophy and myocyte cross-sectional area were highest 7 d after birth (post-birth; PB) and were associated with significant increases in end-diastolic and end-systolic left ventricular volumes and cardiac output. Metabolomics analyses revealed that, by day 16 of pregnancy (late pregnancy; LP), metabolites associated with nitric oxide production as well as acylcholines, sphingomyelins, and fatty acid species were elevated, which coincided with a lower activation state of phosphofructokinase and higher levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (Pdk4). In the postpartum period, urea cycle metabolites, polyamines, and phospholipid levels were markedly elevated in the maternal heart. Cardiac transcriptomics in LP revealed significant increases in not only Pdk4, but also genes that regulate glutamate and ketone body oxidation, which were preceded in MP by higher expression of transcripts controlling cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Proteomics analysis of the maternal heart in LP and PB revealed significant reductions in several contractile filaments and mitochondrial complex subunits. Collectively, these findings describe the coordinated molecular changes that occur in the maternal heart during and after pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle L Fulghum
- Diabetes and Obesity Center, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Juliette B Smith
- Diabetes and Obesity Center, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Julia Chariker
- KY INBRE Genomics Core, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Lauren F Garrett
- Diabetes and Obesity Center, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Kenneth R Brittian
- Diabetes and Obesity Center, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Pawel Lorkiewicz
- Diabetes and Obesity Center, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Lindsey A McNally
- Diabetes and Obesity Center, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Shizuka Uchida
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steven P Jones
- Diabetes and Obesity Center, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Bradford G Hill
- Diabetes and Obesity Center, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Helen E Collins
- Diabetes and Obesity Center, Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
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11
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Chuaiphichai S, Yu GZ, Tan CM, Whiteman C, Douglas G, Dickinson Y, Drydale EN, Appari M, Zhang W, Crabtree MJ, McNeill E, Hale AB, Lewandowski AJ, Alp NJ, Vatish M, Leeson P, Channon KM. Endothelial GTPCH (GTP Cyclohydrolase 1) and Tetrahydrobiopterin Regulate Gestational Blood Pressure, Uteroplacental Remodeling, and Fetal Growth. Hypertension 2021; 78:1871-1884. [PMID: 34689592 PMCID: PMC8577301 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.17646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Surawee Chuaiphichai
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Grace Z. Yu
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Cheryl M.J. Tan
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Whiteman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health (W.Z., M.V.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, United Kingdom (M.V., K.M.C.)
| | - Gillian Douglas
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Yasmin Dickinson
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Edward N. Drydale
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Mahesh Appari
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Wei Zhang
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health (W.Z., M.V.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J. Crabtree
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Eileen McNeill
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Ashley B. Hale
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Adam J. Lewandowski
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J. Alp
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Manu Vatish
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health (W.Z., M.V.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, United Kingdom (M.V., K.M.C.)
| | - Paul Leeson
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Keith M. Channon
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, United Kingdom (M.V., K.M.C.)
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12
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Hu X, Zhang L. Uteroplacental Circulation in Normal Pregnancy and Preeclampsia: Functional Adaptation and Maladaptation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8622. [PMID: 34445328 PMCID: PMC8395300 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Uteroplacental blood flow increases as pregnancy advances. Adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen carried by uteroplacental blood flow is essential for the well-being of the mother and growth/development of the fetus. The uteroplacental hemodynamic change is accomplished primarily through uterine vascular adaptation, involving hormonal regulation of myogenic tone, vasoreactivity, release of vasoactive factors and others, in addition to the remodeling of spiral arteries. In preeclampsia, hormonal and angiogenic imbalance, proinflammatory cytokines and autoantibodies cause dysfunction of both endothelium and vascular smooth muscle cells of the uteroplacental vasculature. Consequently, the vascular dysfunction leads to increased vascular resistance and reduced blood flow in the uteroplacental circulation. In this article, the (mal)adaptation of uteroplacental vascular function in normal pregnancy and preeclampsia and underlying mechanisms are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangqun Hu
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Lubo Zhang
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
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13
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Pasha M, Wooldridge AL, Kirschenman R, Spaans F, Davidge ST, Cooke CLM. Altered Vascular Adaptations to Pregnancy in a Rat Model of Advanced Maternal Age. Front Physiol 2021; 12:718568. [PMID: 34393831 PMCID: PMC8356803 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.718568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced maternal age (≥35 years old) increases the risk of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. We previously demonstrated vascular dysfunction and abnormal pregnancy outcomes in a rat model of advanced maternal age. However, vascular adaptations to pregnancy in aging were not studied. We hypothesize that advanced maternal age is associated with a more vasoconstrictive phenotype due to reduced nitric oxide (NO) and increased activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), contributing to impaired vascular adaptations to pregnancy. A rat model of advanced maternal age was used: young (4 months) and aged (9.5 months; ∼35 years in humans) non-pregnant and pregnant rats. On gestational day 20 (term = 22 days; non-pregnant rats were aged-matched), blood pressure and heart rate were measured (tail cuff plethysmography) and vascular function was assessed in mesenteric arteries (wire myography). Endothelium-dependent relaxation to methylcholine (MCh) was assessed in the presence/absence of nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (L-NAME), or inhibitors of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH; apamin and TRAM-34). Vasoconstriction responses to big endothelin-1 (bigET-1), in the presence/absence of MMPs-inhibitor (GM6001) or endothelin converting enzyme (ECE-1) inhibitor (CGS35066), in addition, ET-1 responsiveness, were measured. Blood pressure was elevated only in aged non-pregnant rats (p < 0.001) compared to all other groups. MCh responses were not different, however, L-NAME decreased maximum vasodilation in young (p < 0.01) and aged pregnant rats (p < 0.001), and decreased MCh sensitivity in young non-pregnant rats (p < 0.01), without effects in aged non-pregnant rats. EDH contribution to relaxation was similar in young non-pregnant, and aged non-pregnant and pregnant rats, while EDH-mediated relaxation was absent in young pregnant rats (p < 0.001). BigET-1 responses were enhanced in aged non-pregnant (p < 0.01) and pregnant rats (p < 0.05). No significant changes in bigET-1 conversion occurred in the presence of MMP-inhibitor, whereas ECE-1 inhibition reduced bigET-1 constriction in aged rats (p < 0.01). No differences in ET-1 sensitivity were observed. In conclusion, contrary to our hypothesis, reduced blood pressure, and an increased EDH-dependent contribution to vasodilation suggest a compensatory mechanism that may reflect beneficial adaptations in these aged rats that were able to maintain pregnancy. These data increase our understanding of how the vascular adaptive pathways in pregnancy compensate for advanced maternal age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazhar Pasha
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Amy L. Wooldridge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Raven Kirschenman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Sandra T. Davidge
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Christy-Lynn M. Cooke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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14
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Fournier SB, D'Errico JN, Stapleton PA. Uterine Vascular Control Preconception and During Pregnancy. Compr Physiol 2021; 11:1871-1893. [PMID: 34061977 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c190015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Successful pregnancy and reproduction are dependent on adequate uterine blood flow, placental perfusion, and vascular responsivity to fetal demands. The ability to support pregnancy centers on systemic adaptation and endometrial preparation through decidualization, embryonic implantation, trophoblast invasion, arterial/arteriolar reactivity, and vascular remodeling. These adaptations occur through responsiveness to endocrine signaling and local uteroplacental mediators. The purpose of this article is to highlight the current knowledge associated with vascular remodeling and responsivity during uterine preparation for and during pregnancy. We focus on maternal cardiovascular systemic and uterine modifications, endometrial decidualization, implantation and invasion, uterine and spiral artery remodeling, local uterine regulatory mechanisms, placentation, and pathological consequences of vascular dysfunction during pregnancy. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1-23, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara B Fournier
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jeanine N D'Errico
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Phoebe A Stapleton
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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15
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Gokina NI, Fairchild RI, Bishop NM, Dawson TE, Prakash K, Bonney EA. Kinetics of Postpartum Mesenteric Artery Structure and Function Relative to Pregnancy and Lactation in Mice. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1200-1215. [PMID: 33415648 PMCID: PMC7935827 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00402-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological evidence suggests that normal pregnancy in women is associated with decreased cardiovascular risk in later life. Clinical studies have provided evidence that alterations in vascular function and structure are detectable long after delivery. To understand these findings, we examined mesenteric artery reactivity at both early (3 days and 2–4 weeks) and late (12 weeks) postpartum (PP) time points in relation to late pregnancy (LP) and lactation. Vessels from virgin controls, LP, PP, and nursing and non-nursing mothers were tested for responses to phenylephrine (PE), high potassium solutions (high K+), and acetylcholine (ACh). Passive arterial distensibility, vessel dimensions, and collagen and elastin content were evaluated for the studied groups. We observed that (1) there was a significant inhibition of vascular reactivity to PE in LP, 3 days and 2 weeks PP vessels that returned to pre-pregnancy levels at 4 and 12 weeks PP; (2) inhibition of NO production in PP vessels restored PE-induced constriction to pre-pregnancy levels; (3) vasodilator responses to ACh were similar at all PP periods; (4) LP and early PP was associated with a persistent increase in arterial distensibility that correlates with a PP-induced reduction in wall collagen, and regressed to pre-conception levels at 12 weeks PP; (5) vessels from non-nursing PP mice demonstrated an increased PE reactivity, diminished responses to ACh, and reduced distensibility compared to breastfeeding mice. These studies provide a timeframe for mesenteric artery adaptations that occur during pregnancy and extend to the PP period, but which may be modified by PP events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia I Gokina
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Larner College of Medicine, Given Building, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
| | - Rebecca I Fairchild
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Larner College of Medicine, Given Building, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Nicole M Bishop
- Microscopy Imaging Center, University of Vermont, Larner College of Medicine, 149 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Taylor E Dawson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Larner College of Medicine, Given Building, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Kirtika Prakash
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Larner College of Medicine, Given Building, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Bonney
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Larner College of Medicine, Given Building, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
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16
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Boonpattrawong NP, Golbidi S, Tai DC, Aleliunas RE, Bernatchez P, Miller JW, Laher I, Devlin AM. Exercise during pregnancy mitigates the adverse effects of maternal obesity on adult male offspring vascular function and alters one-carbon metabolism. Physiol Rep 2020; 8:e14582. [PMID: 32975908 PMCID: PMC7518297 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.14582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal obesity during pregnancy can adversely affect adult offspring vascular endothelial function. This study examined whether maternal exercise during pregnancy and lactation mitigates the adverse effects of maternal obesity on offspring vascular endothelial function. Female (C57BL/6N) mice were fed from weaning a control diet (10% kcal fat) or western diet (45% kcal fat) to induce excess adiposity (maternal obesity). After 13 weeks, the female mice were bred and maintained on the diets, with and without access to a running wheel (exercise), throughout breeding, pregnancy, and lactation. Offspring were weaned onto the control or western diet and fed for 13 weeks; male offspring were studied. Maternal exercise prevented the adverse effects of maternal obesity on offspring vascular endothelial function. However, this was dependent on offspring diet and the positive effect of maternal exercise was only observed in offspring fed the western diet. This was accompanied by alterations in aorta and liver one-carbon metabolism, suggesting a role for these pathways in the improved endothelial function observed in the offspring. Obesity and exercise had no effect on endothelial function in the dams but did affect aorta and liver one-carbon metabolism, suggesting the phenotype observed in the offspring may be due to obesity and exercise-induced changes in one-carbon metabolism in the dams. Our findings demonstrate that maternal exercise prevented vascular dysfunction in male offspring from obese dams and is associated with alterations in one-carbon metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicha P. Boonpattrawong
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineThe University of British Columbia, and BC Children’s Hospital Research InstituteVancouverBCCanada
| | - Saeid Golbidi
- Department of Family PracticeThe University of British Columbia, and BC Children’s Hospital Research InstituteVancouverBCCanada
| | - Daven C. Tai
- Department of PediatricsThe University of British Columbia, and BC Children’s Hospital Research InstituteVancouverBCCanada
| | - Rika E. Aleliunas
- Department of PediatricsThe University of British Columbia, and BC Children’s Hospital Research InstituteVancouverBCCanada
| | - Pascal Bernatchez
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and TherapeuticsThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
| | - Joshua W. Miller
- Department of Nutritional SciencesRutgers UniversityThe State University of New JerseyNew BrunswickNJUSA
| | - Ismail Laher
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and TherapeuticsThe University of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
| | - Angela M. Devlin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineThe University of British Columbia, and BC Children’s Hospital Research InstituteVancouverBCCanada
- Department of PediatricsThe University of British Columbia, and BC Children’s Hospital Research InstituteVancouverBCCanada
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17
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Abstract
Maternal cardiovascular changes during pregnancy include an expansion of plasma volume, increased cardiac output, decreased peripheral resistance, and increased uteroplacental blood flow. These adaptations facilitate the progressive increase in uteroplacental perfusion that is required for normal fetal growth and development, prevent the development of hypertension, and provide a reserve of blood in anticipation of the significant blood loss associated with parturition. Each woman's genotype and phenotype determine her ability to adapt in response to molecular signals that emanate from the fetoplacental unit. Here, we provide an overview of the major hemodynamic and cardiac changes and then consider regional changes in the splanchnic, renal, cerebral, and uterine circulations in terms of endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell plasticity. Although consideration of gestational disease is beyond the scope of this review, aberrant signaling and/or maternal responsiveness contribute to the etiology of several common gestational diseases such as preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and gestational diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Osol
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont 05405, USA;
| | - Nga Ling Ko
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont 05405, USA;
| | - Maurizio Mandalà
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
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18
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Hu XQ, Zhang L. MicroRNAs in Uteroplacental Vascular Dysfunction. Cells 2019; 8:E1344. [PMID: 31671866 PMCID: PMC6912833 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy complications of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are major causes of maternal and perinatal/neonatal morbidity and mortality. Although their etiologies remain elusive, it is generally accepted that they are secondary to placental insufficiency conferred by both failure in spiral artery remodeling and uteroplacental vascular malfunction. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small no-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Increasing evidence suggests that miRNAs participate in virtually all biological processes and are involved in numerous human diseases. Differentially expressed miRNAs in the placenta are typical features of both preeclampsia and IUGR. Dysregulated miRNAs target genes of various signaling pathways in uteroplacental tissues, contributing to the development of both complications. In this review, we provide an overview of how aberrant miRNA expression in preeclampsia and IUGR impacts the expression of genes involved in trophoblast invasion and uteroplacental vascular adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Qun Hu
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California 92350, USA.
| | - Lubo Zhang
- Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California 92350, USA.
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19
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Nakade UP, Sharma A, Kumari P, Bhatiya S, Nair SV, Karikaran KN, Sharma V, Choudhury S, Garg SK. Functional and molecular characterization of endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent relaxant pathways in uterine artery of non-pregnant buffaloes. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2019; 393:225-241. [PMID: 31494705 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-019-01726-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Present study was undertaken to unravel the endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent relaxant pathways in uterine artery of non-pregnant buffaloes. Isometric tension of arterial rings was recorded using data acquisition system based polyphysiograph. Acetylcholine (ACh) produced endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation by releasing nitric oxide (NO), and inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) by L-NAME (300 μM) significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the NO release and thereby the vasorelaxant effect of ACh. However, L-NMMA, another NOS inhibitor, and PTIO, a NO scavenger, did not have any additional inhibitory effect on NO and ACh-induced vasorelaxation. Cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor (indomethacin) alone did not have any inhibitory action on vasorelaxant response to ACh; however, simultaneous inhibition of COX and NOS enzymes significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated the relaxant response indicating the concurrent release of these two mediators in regulating ACh-induced relaxation. Besides NOS and COX-derived metabolites (EDRF), small (SKCa) and intermediate (IKCa) conductance K+ channels being the members of EDHF play predominant role in mediating ACh-induced vasorelaxation. Using different molecular tools, existence of eNOS, COX-1, and,IKCa in the endothelium, BKCa in vascular smooth muscle, and SKCa in both endothelium and vascular smooth muscle was demonstrated in buffalo uterine artery. Gene sequencing of COX-1 and SKCa genes in uterine artery of buffaloes showed more than 97% structural similarity with ovine (Ovis aries), caprine (Capra hircus), and Indian cow (Bos indicus). Endothelium-independent nitrovasodilator, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), produced vasorelaxation which was sensitive to blockade by soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) inhibitor (ODQ), thus suggesting the important role of cGMP/PKG pathways in uterine vasorelaxation in buffaloes. Taken together, it is concluded that both endothelium-dependent (EDHF and EDRF) and endothelium-independent (sGC-cGMP) relaxant pathways are present in uterine arteries of non-pregnant buffaloes, and they differently contribute to vasorelaxation during non-pregnant state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udayraj P Nakade
- Smooth Muscle and Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, 281001, India
| | - Abhishek Sharma
- Smooth Muscle and Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, 281001, India
| | - Priyambada Kumari
- Smooth Muscle and Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, 281001, India
| | - Shirish Bhatiya
- Smooth Muscle and Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, 281001, India
| | - Sooraj V Nair
- Smooth Muscle and Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, 281001, India
| | - K N Karikaran
- Smooth Muscle and Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, 281001, India
| | - Vipin Sharma
- Smooth Muscle and Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, 281001, India
| | - Soumen Choudhury
- Smooth Muscle and Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, 281001, India
| | - Satish Kumar Garg
- Smooth Muscle and Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, 281001, India.
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20
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Osikoya O, Ahmed H, Panahi S, Bourque SL, Goulopoulou S. Uterine perivascular adipose tissue is a novel mediator of uterine artery blood flow and reactivity in rat pregnancy. J Physiol 2019; 597:3833-3852. [PMID: 31165480 DOI: 10.1113/jp277643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS In vivo, uterine perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) potentiates uterine artery blood flow in pregnant rats, although not in non-pregnant rats. In isolated preparations, uterine PVAT has pro-contractile and anti-dilatory effects on uterine arteries. Pregnancy induces changes in uterine arteries that makes them responsive to uterine PVAT signalling. ABSTRACT An increase in uterine artery blood flow (UtBF) is a common and necessary feature of a healthy pregnancy. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that adipose tissue surrounding uterine arteries (uterine perivascular adipose tissue; PVAT) is a novel local mediator of UtBF and uterine artery tone during pregnancy. In vivo experiments in anaesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats showed that pregnant animals (gestational day 16, term = 22--23 days) had a three-fold higher UtBF compared to non-pregnant animals. Surgical removal of uterine PVAT reduced UtBF only in pregnant rats. In a series of ex vivo bioassays, we demonstrated that uterine PVAT had pro-contractile and anti-dilatory effects on rat uterine arteries. In the presence of PVAT-conditioned media, isolated uterine arteries from both pregnant and non-pregnant rats had reduced vasodilatory responses. In non-pregnant rats, these responses were mediated at the level of uterine vascular smooth muscle, whereas, in pregnant rats, PVAT-media reduced endothelium-dependent relaxation. Pregnancy increased adipocyte size in ovarian adipose tissue but had no effect on uterine PVAT adipocyte morphology. In addition, pregnancy down-regulated the gene expression of metabolic adipokines in uterine but not in aortic PVAT. In conclusion, this is the first study to demonstrate that uterine PVAT plays a regulatory role in UtBF, at least in part, as a result of its actions on uterine artery tone. We propose that the interaction between the uterine vascular wall and its adjacent adipose tissue may provide new insights for interventions in pregnancies with adipose tissue dysfunction and abnormal UtBF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatobiloba Osikoya
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Hijab Ahmed
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Sareh Panahi
- Departments of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, Pharmacology, and Pediatrics, Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Stephane L Bourque
- Departments of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, Pharmacology, and Pediatrics, Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Styliani Goulopoulou
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
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Jaimes L, Vinet R, Knox M, Morales B, Benites J, Laurido C, Martínez JL. A Review of the Actions of Endogenous and Exogenous Vasoactive Substances during the Estrous Cycle and Pregnancy in Rats. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E288. [PMID: 31146394 PMCID: PMC6617363 DOI: 10.3390/ani9060288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelium plays a key role in regulating cardiovascular homeostasis by controlling the vascular tone. Variations in sex hormones during the reproductive cycle of females affect the homeostasis of the cardiovascular system. Also, the evidence shows that estrogens show a cardioprotective effect. On this basis, this study describes some vascular responses induced by vasoactive substances during the estrous cycle in rats. We obtained the information available on this topic from the online databases that included scientific articles published in the Web of Science, PubMed, and Scielo. Many investigations have evaluated the vasoactive response of substances such as acetylcholine and norepinephrine during the estrous cycle. In this review, we specifically described the vascular response to vasoactive substances in rats during the estrous cycle, pregnancy, and in ovariectomized rats. In addition, we discussed the existence of different signaling pathways that modulate vascular function. The knowledge of these effects is relevant for the optimization and development of new treatments for some vascular pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisauris Jaimes
- Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, University de Santiago de Chile, Estación Central 9160020, Chile; (L.J.); (B.M.)
| | - Raúl Vinet
- CMBi, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile; (R.V.); (M.K.)
- Regional Centre for Studies in Food and Health (CREAS, Grant R17A10001), Valparaíso 2362696, Chile
| | - Marcela Knox
- CMBi, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile; (R.V.); (M.K.)
| | - Bernardo Morales
- Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, University de Santiago de Chile, Estación Central 9160020, Chile; (L.J.); (B.M.)
| | - Julio Benites
- Faculty of Health Science, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique 1100000, Chile;
| | - Claudio Laurido
- Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, University de Santiago de Chile, Estación Central 9160020, Chile; (L.J.); (B.M.)
| | - José L. Martínez
- Vice Chancellor of Investigation, Development and Innovation, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Estación Central 9160020, Chile
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Spradley FT. Sympathetic nervous system control of vascular function and blood pressure during pregnancy and preeclampsia. J Hypertens 2019; 37:476-487. [PMID: 30160658 PMCID: PMC6355368 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000001901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
: Proper vascular tone and blood pressure regulation during pregnancy are important for immediate and long-term cardiovascular health of the mother and her offspring. Preeclampsia is clinically defined as new-onset maternal hypertension accompanied by cardiovascular, renal, and/or neural abnormalities presenting in the second half of pregnancy. There is strong evidence to support that preeclampsia is mediated by attenuations in uteroplacental vascular remodeling and increases in vasoconstriction with subsequent placental ischemia/reperfusion-induced release of hypertensive substances into the maternal circulation. These include antiangiogenic and pro-inflammatory factors. There is also evidence implicating increased sympathetic nervous system activity (SNA) in this maternal disorder, but this mostly includes data correlating severity of disease with catecholamine levels and elevated muscle SNA. These measurements have not confirmed a causative role for SNA in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Therefore, studies are needed to provide a comprehensive understanding of SNA and its control of vascular function and blood pressure regulation during normal pregnancy in order to set the stage for exploring the mechanisms mediating the exaggerated SNA and signaling during preeclampsia. This review examines the role of SNA in control of uteroplacental vascular tone and blood pressure regulation during normal pregnancy. Furthermore, it is proposed that over-activation of the SNA contributes to altered uteroplacental vascular tone and perfusion leading to placental ischemic events and modulates the systemic vasoconstriction and hypertensive responses to soluble placenta ischemic factors. Recognizing the integrative role and importance of SNA in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia will advance our understanding of this maternal disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank T Spradley
- Department of Surgery, The University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
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Effect of Oxidative Stress on the Estrogen-NOS-NO-K Ca Channel Pathway in Uteroplacental Dysfunction: Its Implication in Pregnancy Complications. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:9194269. [PMID: 30881600 PMCID: PMC6387699 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9194269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, the adaptive changes in uterine circulation and the formation of the placenta are essential for the growth of the fetus and the well-being of the mother. The steroid hormone estrogen plays a pivotal role in this adaptive process. An insufficient blood supply to the placenta due to uteroplacental dysfunction has been associated with pregnancy complications including preeclampsia and intrauterine fetal growth restriction (IUGR). Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between free radical formation and antioxidant defense. Pregnancy itself presents a mild oxidative stress, which is exaggerated in pregnancy complications. Increasing evidence indicates that oxidative stress plays an important role in the maladaptation of uteroplacental circulation partly by impairing estrogen signaling pathways. This review is aimed at providing both an overview of our current understanding of regulation of the estrogen-NOS-NO-KCa pathway by reactive oxygen species (ROS) in uteroplacental tissues and a link between oxidative stress and uteroplacental dysfunction in pregnancy complications. A better understanding of the mechanisms will facilitate the development of novel and effective therapeutic interventions.
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Alterations in vascular function by syncytiotrophoblast extracellular vesicles via lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 in mouse uterine arteries. Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:2369-2381. [PMID: 30352791 DOI: 10.1042/cs20180639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Syncytiotrophoblast extracellular vesicles (STBEVs), released into the maternal circulation during pregnancy, have been shown to affect vascular function; however, the mechanism remains unknown. In rats, STBEVs were shown to reduce endothelium-mediated vasodilation via lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1), a multi-ligand scavenger receptor that has been associated with vascular dysfunction. Recently, LOX-1 was shown to interact with the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT-1). We hypothesized that, in pregnant mice, STBEVs would impair vascular function via LOX-1 and would specifically affect angiotensin II responses. Uterine arteries from pregnant control (C57BL/6) and LOX-1 knockout (LOX-1KO) mice were isolated on gestational day (GD) 18.5. Endothelium-dependent (methylcholine (MCh); ± N(G)-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester to assess nitric oxide (NO) contribution), and -independent (sodium nitroprusside) vasodilation, and vasoconstriction (angiotensin II; ± AT-1 [candesartan] or angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT-2) [PD123.319] receptor antagonists; high potassium salt solution) responses were assessed using wire myography. AT-1 and AT-2 expression was analyzed using fluorescence microscopy. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were stimulated with STBEVs ± LOX-1 blocking antibody, and superoxide and peroxynitrite production were analyzed. Although MCh-induced vasodilation was decreased (P=0.0012), NO contribution to vasodilation was greater in LOX-1KO mice (P=0.0055). STBEVs delayed angiotensin II tachyphylaxis in arteries from control but not LOX-1KO mice (P<0.0001), while AT-1 and AT-2 expression was unchanged. STBEVs increased peroxynitrite production in HUVECs via LOX-1 (P=0.0091). In summary, LOX-1 deletion altered endothelium-mediated vasodilation, suggesting that LOX-1 contributes to vascular adaptations in pregnancy. STBEVs increased angiotensin II responsiveness and oxidative stress levels via LOX-1, suggesting that increased LOX-1 expression/activation or STBEVs could adversely affect vascular function and contribute to vascular complications of pregnancy.
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Kumar S, Gordon GH, Abbott DH, Mishra JS. Androgens in maternal vascular and placental function: implications for preeclampsia pathogenesis. Reproduction 2018; 156:R155-R167. [PMID: 30325182 PMCID: PMC6198264 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Adequate maternal vascular adaptations and blood supply to the uterus and placenta are crucial for optimal oxygen and nutrient transport to growing fetuses of eutherian mammals, including humans. Multiple factors contribute to hemodynamics and structuring of placental vasculature essential for term pregnancy with minimal complications. In women, failure to achieve or sustain favorable pregnancy progression is, not surprisingly, associated with high incidence of antenatal complications, including preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. While the pathogenesis of preeclampsia in women remains unknown, a role for androgens is emerging. The relationship between androgens and maternal cardiovascular and placental function deserves particular consideration because testosterone levels in the circulation of preeclamptic women are elevated approximately two- to three-fold and are positively correlated with vascular dysfunction. Preeclampsia is also associated with elevated placental androgen receptor (AR) gene expression. Studies in animal models mimicking the pattern and level of increase of adult female testosterone levels to those found in preeclamptic pregnancies, replicate key features of preeclampsia, including gestational hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, exaggerated vasoconstriction to angiotensin II, reduced spiral artery remodeling, placental hypoxia, decreased nutrient transport and fetal growth restriction. Taken together, these data strongly implicate AR-mediated testosterone action as an important pathway contributing to clinical manifestation of preeclampsia. This review critically addresses this hypothesis, taking into consideration both clinical and preclinical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sathish Kumar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Geoffrey H Gordon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Endocrinology-Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jay S Mishra
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Tong M, Stanley JL, Chen Q, James JL, Stone PR, Chamley LW. Placental Nano-vesicles Target to Specific Organs and Modulate Vascular Tone In Vivo. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:2188-2198. [PMID: 29040541 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How do nano-vesicles extruded from normal first trimester human placentae affect maternal vascular function? SUMMARY ANSWER Placental nano-vesicles affect the ability of systemic mesenteric arteries to undergo endothelium- and nitric oxide- (NO-) dependent vasodilation in vivo in pregnant mice. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Dramatic cardiovascular adaptations occur during human pregnancy, including a substantial decrease in total peripheral resistance in the first trimester. The human placenta constantly extrudes extracellular vesicles that can enter the maternal circulation and these vesicles may play an important role in feto-maternal communication. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Human placental nano-vesicles were administered into CD1 mice via a tail vein and their localization and vascular effects at 30 min and 24 h post-injection were investigated. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Nano-vesicles from normal first trimester human placentae were collected and administered into pregnant (D12.5) or non-pregnant female mice. After either 30 min or 24 h of exposure, all major organs were dissected for imaging (n = 7 at each time point) while uterine and mesenteric arteries were dissected for wire myography (n = 6 at each time point). Additional in vitro studies using HMEC-1 endothelial cells were also conducted to investigate the kinetics of interaction between placental nano-vesicles and endothelial cells. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Nano-vesicles from first trimester human placentae localized to the lungs, liver and kidneys 24 h after injection into pregnant mice (n = 7). Exposure of pregnant mice to placental nano-vesicles for 30 min in vivo increased the vasodilatory response of mesenteric arteries to acetylcholine, while exposure for 24 h had the opposite effect (P < 0.05, n = 6). These responses were prevented by L-NAME, an NO synthase inhibitor. Placental nano-vesicles did not affect the function of uterine arteries or mesenteric arteries from non-pregnant mice. Placental nano-vesicles rapidly interacted with endothelial cells via a combination of phagocytosis, endocytosis and cell surface binding in vitro. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION As it is not ethical to administer labelled placental nano-vesicles to pregnant women, pregnant CD1 mice were used as a model of pregnancy. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the first study to report the localization of placental nano-vesicles and their vascular effects in vivo. This work provides new insight into how the dramatic maternal cardiovascular adaptations to pregnancy may occur and indicates that placental extracellular vesicles may be important mediators of feto-maternal communication in a healthy pregnancy. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported by the Faculty of Medical and Health Science (FMHS) School of Medicine PBRF research fund to L.W.C. M.T. is a recipient of a University of Auckland Health Research Doctoral Scholarship and the Freemasons Postgraduate Scholarship. No authors have any competing interests to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mancy Tong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Joanna L Stanley
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Q Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Peter R Stone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Larry W Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
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Marshall SA, Senadheera SN, Jelinic M, O'Sullivan K, Parry LJ, Tare M. Relaxin Deficiency Leads to Uterine Artery Dysfunction During Pregnancy in Mice. Front Physiol 2018; 9:255. [PMID: 29623045 PMCID: PMC5874303 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterine vasculature undergoes profound adaptations in response to pregnancy. Augmentation of endothelial vasodilator function and reduced smooth muscle reactivity are factors contributing to uterine artery adaptation and are critical for adequate placental perfusion. The peptide hormone relaxin has an important role in mediating the normal maternal renal vascular adaptations during pregnancy through a reduction in myogenic tone and an increase in flow-mediated vasodilation. Little is known however about the influence of endogenous relaxin on the uterine artery during pregnancy. We tested the hypothesis that relaxin deficiency increases myogenic tone and impairs endothelial vasodilator function in uterine arteries of late pregnant relaxin deficient (Rln−/−) mice. Reactivity of main uterine arteries from non-pregnant and late pregnant wild-type (Rln+/+) and Rln−/− mice was studied using pressure and wire myography and changes in gene expression explored using PCR. Myogenic tone was indistinguishable in arteries from non-pregnant mice. In late pregnancy uterine artery myogenic tone was halved in Rln+/+ mice (P < 0.0001), an adaptation that failed to occur in arteries from pregnant Rln−/− mice. The role of vasodilator prostanoids in the regulation of myogenic tone was significantly reduced in arteries of pregnant Rln−/− mice (P = 0.02). Agonist-mediated endothelium-dependent vasodilation was significantly impaired in non-pregnant Rln−/− mice. With pregnancy, differences in total endothelial vasodilator function were resolved, although there remained an underlying deficiency in the role of vasodilator prostanoids and alterations to the contributions of calcium-activated K+ channels. Fetuses of late pregnant Rln−/− mice were ~10% lighter (P < 0.001) than those of Rln+/+ mice. In conclusion, relaxin deficiency is associated with failed suppression of uterine artery myogenic tone in pregnancy, which likely contributes to reduced uteroplacental perfusion and fetal growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Maria Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kelly O'Sullivan
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Marianne Tare
- Department of Physiology and Monash Rural Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Vidanapathirana AK, Thompson LC, Herco M, Odom J, Sumner SJ, Fennell TR, Brown JM, Wingard CJ. Acute intravenous exposure to silver nanoparticles during pregnancy induces particle size and vehicle dependent changes in vascular tissue contractility in Sprague Dawley rats. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 75:10-22. [PMID: 29154916 PMCID: PMC6241519 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The use of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) raises safety concerns during susceptible life stages such as pregnancy. We hypothesized that acute intravenous exposure to AgNP during late stages of pregnancy will increase vascular tissue contractility, potentially contributing to alterations in fetal growth. Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to a single dose of PVP or Citrate stabilized 20 or 110nm AgNP (700μg/kg). Differential vascular responses and EC50 values were observed in myographic studies in uterine, mesenteric arteries and thoracic aortic segments, 24h post-exposure. Reciprocal responses were observed in aortic and uterine vessels following PVP stabilized AgNP with an increased force of contraction in uterine artery and increased relaxation responses in aorta. Citrate stabilized AgNP exposure increased contractile force in both uterine and aortic vessels. Intravenous AgNP exposure during pregnancy displayed particle size and vehicle dependent moderate changes in vascular tissue contractility, potentially influencing fetal blood supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- A K Vidanapathirana
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27834, USA
| | - L C Thompson
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27834, USA
| | - M Herco
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27834, USA
| | - J Odom
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27834, USA
| | - S J Sumner
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA; Department of Nutrition School of Public Health University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - T R Fennell
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - J M Brown
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, CO, 80045, USA
| | - C J Wingard
- Department of Physiology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27834, USA; Department of Physical Therapy, Bellarmine University, Louisville, KY, 40205, USA.
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Cushen SC, Goulopoulou S. New Models of Pregnancy-Associated Hypertension. Am J Hypertens 2017; 30:1053-1062. [PMID: 28472224 DOI: 10.1093/ajh/hpx063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated hypertensive disorders are leading causes of maternal and fetal mortality. These include: pre-pregnancy hypertension that persists throughout gestation (chronic/preexisting hypertension), de novo hypertension that is diagnosed after 20 weeks of gestation and resolves after birth (gestational hypertension), de novo hypertension that is diagnosed after 20 weeks of gestation with or without proteinuria and end-organ damage (preeclampsia and eclampsia), and chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia during gestation. Preeclampsia is the most severe form of these disorders. Animal models have been developed by employing surgical, genetic, and pharmacological approaches in order to recapitulate the maternal symptoms of preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The scope of this brief review is to present an up-to-date synthesis of our knowledge of experimental models of pregnancy-associated hypertensive disorders. Novel models, defined in this review as characterized within the last 5 years, will be described and critically discussed. In this review, we will also discuss established experimental models of pregnancy-associated hypertensive disorders in the context of their contribution to new advances in our knowledge about the pathophysiology of these disorders and potential therapeutics. Emphasis will be placed on animal models of preeclampsia; however, models of other hypertensive disorders in pregnancy will also be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer C Cushen
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
| | - Styliani Goulopoulou
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
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30
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Bonney EA, Howard A, Krebs K, Begin K, Veilleux K, Gokina NI. Impact of Immune Deficiency on Remodeling of Maternal Resistance Vasculature 4 Weeks Postpartum in Mice. Reprod Sci 2017; 24:514-525. [PMID: 27899739 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116678691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy manifests changes in the vascular and immune systems that persist postpartum (PP), have important implications for future pregnancies, and may modify responses to cardiovascular stress in late life. The association between immune and vascular function and the generation or progression of cardiovascular disease beg the question of whether altered immunity modifies pregnancy-induced changes in the vasculature. Our objective was to compare changes in the function and remodeling of systemic resistance vessels 4 weeks PP in normal C57BL/6 (B6), and immunodeficient mice recombinase 1-deficient/B6 ( Rag1-/-). Immune deficiency did not change the responsiveness to acetylcholine (ACh) and phenylephrine at baseline but decreased arterial distensibility and increased stiffness PP. Adoptive transfer of CD8 T cells into Rag1-/- mice decreased the response to ACh while increasing distensibility and wall thickness. When compared to PP Rag1-/-, vessels from PP CD4-deficient mice, which have B cells and CD8 T cells, but no CD4 cells, show increased distensibility and decreased responsiveness to ACh in a pattern similar to that seen in Rag1-/- given CD8 T cells prior to mating. These studies suggest a key role for T cell, particularly CD8 T cell, associated factors in the PP remodeling of maternal resistance vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Bonney
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Ann Howard
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kendall Krebs
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kelly Begin
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kelsey Veilleux
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Natalia I Gokina
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
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Leo CH, Jelinic M, Ng HH, Marshall SA, Novak J, Tare M, Conrad KP, Parry LJ. Vascular actions of relaxin: nitric oxide and beyond. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 174:1002-1014. [PMID: 27590257 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The peptide hormone relaxin regulates the essential maternal haemodynamic adaptations in early pregnancy through direct actions on the renal and systemic vasculature. These vascular actions of relaxin occur mainly through endothelium-derived NO-mediated vasodilator pathways and improvements in arterial compliance in small resistance-size arteries. This work catalysed a plethora of studies which revealed quite heterogeneous responses across the different regions of the vasculature, and also uncovered NO-independent mechanisms of relaxin action. In this review, we first describe the role of endogenous relaxin in maintaining normal vascular function, largely referring to work in pregnant and male relaxin-deficient animals. We then discuss the diversity of mechanisms mediating relaxin action in different vascular beds, including the involvement of prostanoids, VEGF, endothelium-derived hyperpolarisation and antioxidant activity in addition to the classic NO-mediated vasodilatory pathway. We conclude the review with current perspectives on the vascular remodelling capabilities of relaxin. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Recent Progress in the Understanding of Relaxin Family Peptides and their Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.10/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - M Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - H H Ng
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - S A Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - J Novak
- Division of Mathematics and Science, Walsh University, North Canton, OH, USA
| | - M Tare
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,School of Rural Health, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - K P Conrad
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - L J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Roberts RP, Refuerzo JS, Ferrari F, Ontiveros AE, Tamayo EH, Sibai BM, Blackwell SC, Longo M. Sildenafil treatment in a nonsevere hypertensive murine model lowers blood pressure without reducing fetal growth. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 215:386.e1-8. [PMID: 27177526 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2016] [Revised: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of nonsevere hypertension during pregnancy is controversial. Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that potentiates nitric oxide by promoting vasodilation. Nitric oxide plays a vital role in mediating the vascular adaptations during pregnancy. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to determine whether treatment with sildenafil during pregnancy would lower maternal systolic blood pressure without adversely affecting fetal growth. STUDY DESIGN Females with nonsevere hypertension (endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-)) were cross-bred with normotensive wild-type males. At gestational day 1, pregnant dams were randomized to either sildenafil (0.4 mg/mL per day, comparable dose used in human pregnancy) or water for 3 weeks. Four groups were then generated: wild type (n = 7), wild type-sildenafil (n = 11), endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) (n = 8), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-)sildenafil (n = 7). On gestational day 18, systolic blood pressure was measured. Dams were killed, fetal and placental weights were obtained, and carotid arteries were dissected to measure in vitro vascular reactivity with a wire-myography system. Responses to phenylephrine, L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester, acetylcholine, and sodium nitroprusside were studied. RESULTS Mean systolic blood pressure was elevated in the endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) dams compared with wild-type controls (P = .03). Treatment with sildenafil decreased systolic blood pressure in the endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-)-treated dams compared with nontreated endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) dams (P = .03). No differences were seen in the wild-type dams with or without sildenafil (P = .47). Fetuses from endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) dams were smaller compared with wild-type controls (P < .001); however, when these endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) dams were treated with sildenafil, fetal weight increased compared with the nontreated endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) group (P < .001). No difference were seen in wild-type groups treated or not treated with sildenafil (P = .41). Placental weights were not significantly different among groups (endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-)sildenafil vs endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) [P = .48]; wild-type-sildenafil vs wild type [P = .52]). Maximal vascular contraction induced by phenylephrine was blunted in endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) dams treated with sildenafil compared with nontreated endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) dams (P < .01). No change in contractile response was seen in wild-type groups treated or not treated (P = .53). When vessels were preincubated with L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester, the contractile responses were similar among all groups (P = .54). In addition, maximal vascular relaxation induced by acetylcholine was improved in the endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) dams treated with sildenafil compared with endothelial nitric oxide synthase(+/-) nontreated dams (P < .01). No change in relaxation response was seen in wild-type groups treated or not treated (P = .62). Sodium nitroprusside did not change the contractile response in any of the groups (P = .31). CONCLUSION Pregnant dams deficient in endothelial nitric oxide synthase, a nonsevere hypertensive murine model, treated with sildenafil had lower maternal systolic blood pressure, increased fetal growth, and improvement in vascular reactivity. Treatment with sildenafil may be beneficial in pregnancies complicated by nonsevere hypertension.
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Marshall SA, Leo CH, Senadheera SN, Girling JE, Tare M, Parry LJ. Relaxin deficiency attenuates pregnancy-induced adaptation of the mesenteric artery to angiotensin II in mice. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2016; 310:R847-57. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00506.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy is associated with reduced peripheral vascular resistance, underpinned by changes in endothelial and smooth muscle function. Failure of the maternal vasculature to adapt correctly leads to serious pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia. The peptide hormone relaxin regulates the maternal renal vasculature during pregnancy; however, little is known about its effects in other vascular beds. This study tested the hypothesis that functional adaptation of the mesenteric and uterine arteries during pregnancy will be compromised in relaxin-deficient ( Rln−/−) mice. Smooth muscle and endothelial reactivity were examined in small mesenteric and uterine arteries of nonpregnant (estrus) and late-pregnant ( day 17.5) wild-type ( Rln+/+) and Rln−/− mice using wire myography. Pregnancy per se was associated with significant reductions in contraction to phenylephrine, endothelin-1, and ANG II in small mesenteric arteries, while sensitivity to endothelin-1 was reduced in uterine arteries of Rln+/+ mice. The normal pregnancy-associated attenuation of ANG II-mediated vasoconstriction in mesenteric arteries did not occur in Rln−/− mice. This adaptive failure was endothelium-independent and did not result from altered expression of ANG II receptors or regulator of G protein signaling 5 ( Rgs5) or increases in reactive oxygen species generation. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase with l-NAME enhanced ANG II-mediated contraction in mesenteric arteries of both genotypes, whereas blockade of prostanoid production with indomethacin only increased ANG II-induced contraction in arteries of pregnant Rln+/+ mice. In conclusion, relaxin deficiency prevents the normal pregnancy-induced attenuation of ANG II-mediated vasoconstriction in small mesenteric arteries. This is associated with reduced smooth muscle-derived vasodilator prostanoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Jane E. Girling
- Gynaecology Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne and Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; and
| | - Marianne Tare
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; and
- School of Rural Health, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura J. Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Care AS, Bourque SL, Morton JS, Hjartarson EP, Davidge ST. Effect of Advanced Maternal Age on Pregnancy Outcomes and Vascular Function in the Rat. Hypertension 2015; 65:1324-30. [DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.115.05167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2015] [Accepted: 04/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Advanced maternal age is becoming increasingly common in Western societies and is associated with increased maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. We hypothesized that aging results in impaired vascular function in pregnancy because of increased vascular oxidative stress and resultant scavenging of nitric oxide in both uterine and systemic arteries, causing reduced uteroplacental perfusion and poor pregnancy outcomes. Using aged rats (9.5 months), we investigated the effect of a delayed first natural pregnancy on pregnancy outcomes and uterine and mesenteric artery function on gestational day 20. Delayed pregnancy in the rat reduced fertility by 46%, reduced litter size by 36%, caused fetal growth restriction, increased placental weight, and increased maternal systolic blood pressure (by 16 mm Hg). Uterine arteries from aged dams displayed reduced constriction to phenylephrine (young: 14.3±0.94 mN/mm versus aged: 11.4±0.5 mN/mm,
P
=0.02) and potassium chloride (124 mmol/L; young: 21.8±1.27 mN/mm versus aged: 14.2±1.7 mN/mm;
P
=0.01). Methacholine-induced vasodilation was similar in uterine arteries from young and aged dams. However, mesenteric arteries from aged dams had a greater nitric oxide and a reduced endothelial-derived hyperpolarization contribution to methacholine-mediated vasodilation compared with young dams. Both uterine and mesenteric arteries from aged dams had greater active myogenic responses, with area under the curve increased by 228% and 151%, in aged uterine and mesenteric arteries, respectively. These results demonstrate that vascular function is altered at an advanced maternal age and provides further insights into the risks of poor pregnancy outcomes observed in women who delay pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison S. Care
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.S.C., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (S.L.B.), Women and Children’s Health Research Institute (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Cardiovascular Research Centre (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Stephane L. Bourque
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.S.C., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (S.L.B.), Women and Children’s Health Research Institute (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Cardiovascular Research Centre (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jude S. Morton
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.S.C., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (S.L.B.), Women and Children’s Health Research Institute (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Cardiovascular Research Centre (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Emma P. Hjartarson
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.S.C., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (S.L.B.), Women and Children’s Health Research Institute (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Cardiovascular Research Centre (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sandra T. Davidge
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (A.S.C., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (S.L.B.), Women and Children’s Health Research Institute (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., E.P.H., S.T.D.), Cardiovascular Research Centre (A.S.C., S.L.B., J.S.M., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Mazzuca MQ, Dang Y, Khalil RA. Enhanced endothelin receptor type B-mediated vasodilation and underlying [Ca²⁺]i in mesenteric microvessels of pregnant rats. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 169:1335-51. [PMID: 23646960 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2012] [Revised: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Normal pregnancy is associated with decreased vascular resistance and increased release of vasodilators. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) causes vasoconstriction via endothelin receptor type A (ET(A)R), but could activate ET(B)R in the endothelium and release vasodilator substances. However, the roles of ET(B)R in the regulation of vascular function during pregnancy and the vascular mediators involved are unclear. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Pressurized mesenteric microvessels from pregnant and virgin Sprague-Dawley rats were loaded with fura-2/AM for simultaneous measurement of diameter and [Ca²⁺]i. KEY RESULTS High KCl (51 mM) and phenylephrine (PHE) caused increases in vasoconstriction and [Ca²⁺]i that were similar in pregnant and virgin rats. ET-1 caused vasoconstriction that was less in pregnant than virgin rats, with small increases in [Ca²⁺]i. Pretreatment with the ET(B)R antagonist BQ-788 caused greater enhancement of ET-1-induced vasoconstriction in pregnant rats. ACh caused endothelium-dependent relaxation and decreased [Ca²⁺]i, and was more potent in pregnant than in virgin rats. ET-1 + ET(A)R antagonist BQ-123, and the ET(B)R agonists sarafotoxin 6c (S6c) and IRL-1620 caused greater vasodilation in pregnant than in virgin rats with no changes in [Ca²⁺]i, suggesting up-regulated ET(B)R-mediated relaxation pathways. ACh-, S6c- and IRL-1620-induced relaxation was reduced by the NO synthase inhibitor Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, and abolished by tetraethylammonium or endothelium removal. Western blots revealed greater amount of ET(B)R in intact microvessels of pregnant than virgin rats, but reduced levels in endothelium-denuded microvessels, supporting a role of endothelial ET(B)R. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The enhanced ET(B)R-mediated microvascular relaxation may contribute to the decreased vasoconstriction and vascular resistance during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Q Mazzuca
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratory, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Rosenfeld CR, Roy T. Prolonged uterine artery nitric oxide synthase inhibition modestly alters basal uteroplacental vasodilation in the last third of ovine pregnancy. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2014; 307:H1196-203. [PMID: 25128169 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00996.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Mechanisms regulating uteroplacental blood flow (UPBF) in pregnancy remain unclear, but they likely involve several integrated signaling systems. Endothelium-derived nitric oxide (NO) is considered an important contributor, but the extent of its involvement is unclear. Bolus intra-arterial infusions of nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) modestly decrease ovine basal UPBF; however, the doses and duration of infusion may have been insufficient. We, therefore, examined prolonged uterine artery (UA) NO synthase inhibition with l-NAME throughout the last third of ovine pregnancy by performing either continuous 30-min UA infusion dose responses (n = 4) or 72-h UA infusions (0.01 mg/ml) at 104-108, 118-125, and 131-137 days of gestation (n = 7) while monitoring mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and UPBF. Uteroplacental vascular resistance (UPVR) was calculated, and uterine cGMP synthesis was measured. Thirty-minute UA l-NAME infusions did not dose dependently decrease UPBF, increase UPVR, or decrease uterine cGMP synthesis (P > 0.1); however, MAP rose and HR fell modestly. Prolonged continuous 72-h UA l-NAME infusions decreased UPBF ∼32%, increased UPVR ∼68% (P ≤ 0.001), and decreased uterine cGMP synthesis 70% at 54-72 h (P ≤ 0.004); the noninfused uterine horn was unaffected. These findings were associated with ∼10% increases in MAP and decreases in HR that were greater at 104-108 than 118-125 and 131-137 days of gestation (P = 0.006). Although uterine and UA NO and cGMP synthesis increase severalfold during ovine pregnancy, they contribute modestly to the maintenance and rise in UPBF in the last third of gestation. Thus, local UA NO may primarily modulate vasoconstrictor responses. Notably, the systemic vasculature appears more sensitive than the uterine vasculature to NO synthase inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles R Rosenfeld
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Timothy Roy
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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Renshall LJ, Dilworth MR, Greenwood SL, Sibley CP, Wareing M. In vitro assessment of mouse fetal abdominal aortic vascular function. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2014; 307:R746-54. [PMID: 25056105 PMCID: PMC4166756 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00058.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects 3–8% of human pregnancies. Mouse models have provided important etiological data on FGR; they permit the assessment of treatment strategies on the physiological function of both mother and her developing offspring. Our study aimed to 1) develop a method to assess vascular function in fetal mice and 2) as a proof of principle ascertain whether a high dose of sildenafil citrate (SC; Viagra) administered to the pregnant dam affected fetal vascular reactivity. We developed a wire myography methodology for evaluation of fetal vascular function in vitro using the placenta-specific insulin-like growth factor II (Igf2) knockout mouse (P0; a model of FGR). Vascular function was determined in abdominal aortas isolated from P0 and wild-type (WT) fetuses at embryonic day (E) 18.5 of gestation. A subset of dams received SC 0.8 mg/ml via drinking water from E12.5; data were compared with water-only controls. Using wire myography, we found that fetal aortic rings exhibited significant agonist-induced contraction, and endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent relaxation. Sex-specific alterations in reactivity were noted in both strains. Maternal treatment with SC significantly attenuated endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent relaxation of fetal aortic rings. Mouse fetal abdominal aortas reproducibly respond to vasoactive agents. Study of these vessels in mouse genetic models of pregnancy complications may 1) help to delineate early signs of abnormal vascular reactivity and 2) inform whether treatments given to the mother during pregnancy may impact upon fetal vascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis J Renshall
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R Dilworth
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Susan L Greenwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Colin P Sibley
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Wareing
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Subramanian K, Naik VD, Sathishkumar K, Yallampalli C, Saade GR, Hankins GD, Ramadoss J. Chronic binge alcohol exposure during pregnancy impairs rat maternal uterine vascular function. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2014; 38:1832-8. [PMID: 24962648 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol exposure during pregnancy results in an array of structural and functional abnormalities called fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Alcohol dysregulates the exquisite coordination and regulation of gestational adaptations at the level of the uterine vasculature. We herein hypothesized that chronic binge-like alcohol results in uterine vascular dysfunction and impairs maternal uterine artery reactivity to vasoconstrictors and dilators. METHODS We utilized a once-daily binge alcohol (4.5 g/kg body weight) exposure paradigm (gestational day 7 to 17) in a pregnant rat model system and investigated primary uterine artery function in response to vasoconstrictors and vasodilators utilizing wire myography. RESULTS Alcohol (peak blood alcohol concentration, 216 mg/dl) produced uterine vascular dysfunction. Alcohol did not produce altered uterine vascular reactivity to α1 adrenergic agonist phenylephrine or the prostanoid thromboxane. However, alcohol specifically impaired acetylcholine (ACh)-mediated uterine artery vasodilation but exogenous endothelium-independent vasodilators like sodium nitroprusside exhibited no alcohol effect; ACh significantly decreased vessel relaxation (p = 0.003; ↓pD2 [negative log molar ACh concentration producing the half maximum response], -7.004 ± 0.215 vs. -6.310 ± 0.208; EMax [maximal ACh response], 92% vs. 75%). CONCLUSIONS We conclude that moderate alcohol exposure impairs uterine vascular function in pregnant mothers. Alcohol specifically impairs agonist-induced uterine artery vasodilation. In summary, the maternal uterine compartment may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of FASD. Thus, the mechanistic targets of alcohol at the level of both the mother and the fetus need to be considered in order to develop effective therapeutic treatment strategies for FASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaviarasan Subramanian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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Chinnathambi V, Blesson CS, Vincent KL, Saade GR, Hankins GD, Yallampalli C, Sathishkumar K. Elevated testosterone levels during rat pregnancy cause hypersensitivity to angiotensin II and attenuation of endothelium-dependent vasodilation in uterine arteries. Hypertension 2014; 64:405-14. [PMID: 24842922 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.114.03283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Elevated testosterone levels increase maternal blood pressure and decrease uterine blood flow in pregnancy, resulting in abnormal perinatal outcomes. We tested whether elevated testosterone alters uterine artery adaptations during pregnancy, and whether these alterations depend on endothelium-derived factors such as nitric oxide, endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor, and prostacyclin, or endothelium-independent mechanisms such as angiotensin II (Ang-II). Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with vehicle (n=20) or testosterone propionate (0.5 mg/kg per day from gestation day 15 to 19; n=20). Plasma testosterone levels increased 2-fold in testosterone-injected rats compared with controls. Elevated testosterone significantly decreased placental and pup weights compared with controls. In endothelium-intact uterine arteries, contractile responses to thromboxane, phenylephrine, and Ang-II were greater in testosterone-treated rats compared with controls. In endothelium-denuded arteries, contractile responses to Ang-II (pD2=9.1±0.04 versus 8.7±0.04 in controls; P<0.05), but not thromboxane and phenylephrine, were greater in testosterone-treated rats. Ang-II type 1b receptor expression was increased, whereas Ang-II type 2 receptor was decreased in testosterone-exposed arteries. In endothelium-denuded arteries, relaxations to sodium nitroprusside were unaffected. Endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine was significantly lower in arteries from testosterone-treated dams (Emax=51.80±6.9% versus 91.98±1.4% in controls; P<0.05). The assessment of endothelial factors showed that nitric oxide-, endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-, and prostacyclin-mediated relaxations were blunted in testosterone-treated dams. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase, small conductance calcium-activated potassium channel-3, and prostacyclin receptor expressions were significantly decreased in arteries from testosterone-treated dams. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, Ankrd37, and Egln were significantly increased in testosterone-exposed placentas. These results suggest that elevated maternal testosterone impairs uterine vascular function, which may lead to an increased vascular resistance and a decrease in uterine blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijayakumar Chinnathambi
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston (V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.); and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (C.S.B., C.Y.)
| | - Chellakkan S Blesson
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston (V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.); and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (C.S.B., C.Y.)
| | - Kathleen L Vincent
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston (V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.); and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (C.S.B., C.Y.)
| | - George R Saade
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston (V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.); and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (C.S.B., C.Y.)
| | - Gary D Hankins
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston (V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.); and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (C.S.B., C.Y.)
| | - Chandra Yallampalli
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston (V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.); and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (C.S.B., C.Y.)
| | - Kunju Sathishkumar
- From the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston (V.C., K.L.V., G.R.S., G.D.H., K.S.); and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (C.S.B., C.Y.).
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Goulopoulou S, Hannan JL, Matsumoto T, Ergul A, Webb RC. Augmented dilation to nitric oxide in uterine arteries from rats with type 2 diabetes: implications for vascular adaptations to pregnancy. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2013; 306:H610-8. [PMID: 24337459 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00588.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Pre-existing diabetes increases the risk of maternal and fetal complications during pregnancy, which may be due to underlying maternal vascular dysfunction and impaired blood supply to the uteroplacental unit. Endothelial dysfunction and reduced vascular smooth muscle responsiveness to nitric oxide (NO) are common vascular impairments in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We hypothesized that uterine arteries from diabetic rats would have reduced vascular smooth muscle sensitivity to NO compared with nondiabetic rats due to impairment in the NO/soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC)/cGMP signaling pathway. Uterine arteries from pregnant Goto-Kakizaki (GK; model of T2D) and Wistar (nondiabetic) rats were studied in a wire myograph. GK nonpregnant uterine arteries had reduced responses to ACh and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) but increased responses to propylamine propylamine NONOate and greater sensitivity to sildenafil compared with Wistar nonpregnant arteries. In late pregnancy, Wistar rats had reduced uterine vascular smooth muscle responsiveness to SNP, but GK rats failed to show this adaptation and had reduced expression of sGC compared with the nonpregnant state. GK rats had a smaller litter size (13.9 ± 0.48 vs. 9.8 ± 0.75; P < 0.05) and a greater number of resorptions compared with Wistar controls (0.8 ± 0.76% vs. 19.9 ± 6.06%; P < 0.05). These results suggest that uterine arteries from rats with T2D show reduced sensitivity of uterine vascular smooth muscle sGC to NO. During pregnancy, the GK uterine vascular smooth muscle fails to show relaxation responses similar to those of arteries from nondiabetic rats.
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Chinnathambi V, Yallampalli C, Sathishkumar K. Prenatal testosterone induces sex-specific dysfunction in endothelium-dependent relaxation pathways in adult male and female rats. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:97. [PMID: 23966325 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.111542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal testosterone (T) exposure impacts postnatal cardiovascular function, leading to increases in blood pressure with associated decreased endothelium-dependent vascular relaxation in adult females. Endothelial function in males is not known. Furthermore, which of the endothelial pathways contributes to endothelial dysfunction and if there exists sex differences are not known. The objective of this study was to characterize the relative contribution of nitric oxide (NO) and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) to the impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation in prenatal T-exposed adult males and females. Offspring of pregnant rats treated with T propionate or its vehicle were examined. Telemetric blood pressure levels and endothelium-dependent vascular reactivity were assessed with wire myography. Levels of nitric oxide synthase (NOS3) and Kcnn3 and Kcnn4 channel expression were examined in mesenteric arteries. Mean arterial pressure was significantly higher in T males and females than in controls. Endothelium-dependent acetylcholine relaxation was significantly lower in both T males and females. EDHF-mediated relaxation was specifically blunted in T males (Emax = 48.64% ± 3.73%) compared to that in control males (Emax = 81.71% ± 3.18%); however, NO-mediated relaxation was specifically impaired in T females (Emax = 36.01% ± 4.29%) compared with that in control females (Emax = 54.56% ± 6.37%). Relaxation to sodium nitroprusside and levcromakalim were unaffected with T-treatment. NOS3 protein was decreased in T females but not in T males. Kcnn3 expression was decreased in both T males and females compared to controls. These findings suggest that prenatal T leads to an increase in blood pressure in the adult offspring, associated with blunting of endothelial cell-associated relaxation and that the effects are sex-specific: EDHF-related in males and NO-related in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijayakumar Chinnathambi
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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Spradley FT, Palei AC, Granger JP. Obese melanocortin-4 receptor-deficient rats exhibit augmented angiogenic balance and vasorelaxation during pregnancy. Physiol Rep 2013; 1:e00081. [PMID: 24159378 PMCID: PMC3804345 DOI: 10.1002/phy2.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
While obesity is a major risk factor for preeclampsia, the mechanisms linking obesity and hypertension during preeclampsia remain unclear. Hypertension in preeclampsia is associated with placental ischemia-induced release of anti-angiogenic soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt-1) into the maternal circulation, which antagonizes vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) promoting endothelial dysfunction. Haploinsufficiency, defined as loss of one copy of a gene via a mutation, of the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) is the most common cause of monogenetic obesity in humans. The purpose of our study was to determine the effects of genetic obesity on angiogenic balance, endothelial function, and blood pressure in pregnant MC4R+/- and MC4R+/+ rats. At gestational day (GD) 18, body weight and total body fat mass were greater in MC4R+/- than MC4R+/+ rats. On GD 19, plasma sFlt-1 was not significantly different between groups. Interestingly, circulating VEGF was greater in the obese rats with the source being adipose tissue and not the placenta. Wire myography showed in third-order mesenteric arteries that sensitivity (logEC50) to endothelial dependent and nitric oxide donor-induced vasorelaxation was greater in MC4R+/- versus MC4R+/+. Mean arterial blood pressure was similar between groups. In conclusion, under normal pregnant conditions, genetically obese pregnant animals have greater angiogenic balance and dependency of vasorelaxation on nitric oxide signaling protecting against the development of hypertension. However, we speculate that, in the face of reduced uterine perfusion, a rise in circulating placental factors that target and reduce nitric oxide bioavailability exposes the susceptibility of genetically obese animals to greater hypertension in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank T Spradley
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216
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43
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Abstract
Pregnancy encompasses substantial changes in vascular function to accommodate dramatic increases in blood volume and uteroplacental blood flow to the growing fetus. Despite increased hemodynamics, decreased peripheral resistance results in a reduction in mean arterial blood pressure. Vascular tone, and hence peripheral resistance, is determined by a delicate balance of constrictor and dilator capacities. In the normal physiological response to pregnancy, endothelial-derived hyperpolarization (EDH) has been shown to be a major contributor; both EDH and nitric oxide (NO) are predominantly involved in providing an increased vascular capacity for vasodilation. The ability of EDH and NO to adequately accommodate increased blood volume is tested in pathological states such as placental insufficiency or diabetes and both EDH and NO-dependent mechanisms seem to be impacted in these situations. Pregnancy complications also have an impact on the cardiovascular health of the offspring. In adult offspring born from complicated pregnancies, the data suggest that EDH mechanisms are largely maintained, whereas NO is commonly reduced. A diversity of EDH mechanisms may be useful in providing many targets for potential therapeutic avenues for compromised pregnancies; however, further research delineating the mechanisms of EDH and the interactions of NO and EDH, in normal and pathological pregnancies is required.
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Zhu R, Hu XQ, Xiao D, Yang S, Wilson SM, Longo LD, Zhang L. Chronic hypoxia inhibits pregnancy-induced upregulation of SKCa channel expression and function in uterine arteries. Hypertension 2013; 62:367-74. [PMID: 23716582 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.113.01236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Small-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (SKCa) channels are crucial in regulating vascular tone and blood pressure. The present study tested the hypothesis that SKCa channels play an important role in uterine vascular adaptation in pregnancy, which is inhibited by chronic hypoxia during gestation. Uterine arteries were isolated from nonpregnant and near-term pregnant sheep maintained at sea level (≈300 m) or exposed to high-altitude (3801 m) hypoxia for 110 days. Immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of SKCa channels type 2 (SK2) and type 3 (SK3) in both smooth muscles and endothelium of uterine arteries. The expression of SK2 and SK3 channels was significantly increased during pregnancy, which was inhibited by chronic hypoxia. In normoxic animals, both SKCa channel opener NS309 and a large-conductance (BKCa) channel opener NS1619 relaxed norepinephrine-contracted uterine arteries in pregnant but not nonpregnant sheep. These relaxations were inhibited by selective SKCa and BKCa channel blockers, respectively. NS309-induced relaxation was largely endothelium-independent. In high-altitude hypoxic animals, neither NS1691 nor NS309 produced significant relaxation of uterine arteries in either nonpregnant or pregnant sheep. Similarly, the role of SKCa channels in regulating the myogenic reactivity of uterine arteries in pregnant animals was abrogated by chronic hypoxia. Accordingly, the enhanced SKCa channel activity in uterine arterial myocytes of pregnant animals was ablated by chronic hypoxia. The findings suggest a novel mechanism of SKCa channels in regulating myogenic adaptation of uterine arteries in pregnancy and in the maladaptation of uteroplacental circulation caused by chronic hypoxia during gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronghui Zhu
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
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Chinnathambi V, Balakrishnan M, Ramadoss J, Yallampalli C, Sathishkumar K. Testosterone alters maternal vascular adaptations: role of the endothelial NO system. Hypertension 2013; 61:647-54. [PMID: 23339170 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.111.00486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones estradiol and progesterone play an important role in vascular adaptations during pregnancy. However, little is known about the role of androgens. Plasma testosterone (T) levels are elevated in preeclampsia, mothers with polycystic ovary, and pregnant African American women, who have endothelial dysfunction and develop gestational hypertension. We tested whether increased T alters vascular adaptations during pregnancy and whether these alterations depend on endothelium-derived factors, such as prostacyclin, endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor, and NO. Pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were injected with vehicle (n=12) or T propionate [0.5 mg/Kg per day from gestation day 15-19; n=12] to increase plasma T levels 2-fold, similar to that observed in preeclampsia. Telemetric blood pressures and endothelium-dependent vascular reactivity were assessed with wire-myograph system. Phospho-endothelial NO synthase and total endothelial NO synthase were examined in mesenteric arteries. Mean arterial pressures were significantly higher starting from gestation day19 until delivery in T-treated dams. Endothelium-dependent relaxation responses to acetylcholine were significantly lower in mesenteric arteries of T-treated dams (pD(2) [-log EC(50)]=7.05±0.06; E(max)=89.4±1.89) compared with controls (pD(2)=7.38±0.04; E(max)=99.9±0.97). Further assessment of endothelial factors showed NO-mediated relaxations were blunted in T-treated mesenteric arteries (E(max)=42.26±5.95) compared with controls (E(max)=76.49±5.06); however, prostacyclin- and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated relaxations were unaffected. Relaxation to sodium nitroprusside was unaffected with T-treatment. Phosphorylations of endothelial NO synthase at Ser(1177) were decreased and at Thr(495) increased in T-treated mesenteric arteries without changes in total endothelial NO synthase levels. In conclusion, increased maternal T, at concentrations relevant to abnormal clinical conditions, cause hypertension associated with blunting of NO-mediated vasodilation. T may induce the increased vascular resistance associated with pregnancy-induced hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijayakumar Chinnathambi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1062, USA
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Withers S, Taggart M, Austin C. Isolated small uterine arteries from non-pregnant and term pregnant rats exhibit regulatory responses to elevations in extravascular pressure. Placenta 2012. [PMID: 23195572 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
An adequate blood supply is essential for the maintenance of uterine function and fetal health during parturition. However, labouring uterine contractions will impart compressive forces on small uterine arteries (SUA). We demonstrate that isolated, pressurised rat SUA arteries, pre-constricted with arginine vasopressin or high potassium solution, exhibit regulatory responses to elevations in extravascular pressure (EVP) which maintain internal diameter constant at EVPs of 0-40 mm Hg. This response is endothelium independent and is not modulated by pregnancy. No regulation was observed in calcium free solution. SUA myogenic responses to elevated EVP likely represents a mechanism for limiting reductions in uterine blood flow during uterine contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Withers
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Core Technology Facility, University of Manchester, 46 Grafton Street, Manchester, UK
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van Drongelen J, Hooijmans CR, Lotgering FK, Smits P, Spaanderman MEA. Adaptive changes of mesenteric arteries in pregnancy: a meta-analysis. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2012; 303:H639-57. [PMID: 22821990 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00617.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The vascular response to pregnancy has been frequently studied in mesenteric artery models by investigating endothelial cell (EC)- and smooth muscle cell (SMC)-dependent responses to mechanical (flow-mediated vasodilation, myogenic reactivity, and vascular compliance) and pharmacological stimuli (G protein-coupled receptor responses: Gq(EC), Gs(SMC), Gq(SMC)). It is unclear to what extent these pathways contribute to normal pregnancy-induced vasodilation across species, strains, and/or gestational age and at which receptor level pregnancy affects the pathways. We performed a meta-analysis on responses to mechanical and pharmacological stimuli associated with pregnancy-induced vasodilation of mesenteric arteries and included 55 (188 responses) out of 398 studies. Most included studies (84%) were performed in Wistar and Sprague-Dawley rats (SDRs) and compared late gestation versus nonpregnant controls (80%). Pregnancy promotes flow-mediated vasodilation in all investigated species. Only in SDRs, pregnancy additionally stimulates both vasodilator Gq(EC) sensitivity (EC(50) reduced by -0.76 [-0.92, -0.60] log[M]) and Gs(SMC) sensitivity (EC(50) reduced by -0.51 [-0.82, -0.20] log[M]), depresses vasopressor Gq(SMC) sensitivity (EC(50) increase in SDRs by 0.23 [0.16, 0.31] log[M]), and enhances arterial compliance. We conclude that 1) pregnancy facilitates flow-mediated vasodilation at term among all investigated species, and the contribution of additional vascular responses is species and strain specific, and 2) late pregnancy mediates vasodilation through changes at the receptor level for the substances tested. The initial steps of vasodilation in early pregnancy remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris van Drongelen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, The Netherlands.
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48
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Hu XQ, Xiao D, Zhu R, Huang X, Yang S, Wilson SM, Zhang L. Chronic hypoxia suppresses pregnancy-induced upregulation of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel activity in uterine arteries. Hypertension 2012; 60:214-22. [PMID: 22665123 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.112.196097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Our previous study demonstrated that increased Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK(Ca)) channel activity played a key role in the normal adaptation of reduced myogenic tone of uterine arteries in pregnancy. The present study tested the hypothesis that chronic hypoxia during gestation inhibits pregnancy-induced upregulation of BK(Ca) channel function in uterine arteries. Resistance-sized uterine arteries were isolated from nonpregnant and near-term pregnant sheep maintained at sea level (≈ 300 m) or exposed to high-altitude (3801 m) hypoxia for 110 days. Hypoxia during gestation significantly inhibited pregnancy-induced upregulation of BK(Ca) channel activity and suppressed BK(Ca) channel current density in pregnant uterine arteries. This was mediated by a selective downregulation of BK(Ca) channel β1 subunit in the uterine arteries. In accordance, hypoxia abrogated the role of the BK(Ca) channel in regulating pressure-induced myogenic tone of uterine arteries that was significantly elevated in pregnant animals acclimatized to chronic hypoxia. In addition, hypoxia abolished the steroid hormone-mediated increase in the β1 subunit and BK(Ca) channel current density observed in nonpregnant uterine arteries. Although the activation of protein kinase C inhibited BK(Ca) channel current density in pregnant uterine arteries of normoxic sheep, this effect was ablated in the hypoxic animals. The results demonstrate that selectively targeting BK(Ca) channel β1 subunit plays a critical role in the maladaption of uteroplacental circulation caused by chronic hypoxia, which contributes to the increased incidence of preeclampsia and fetal intrauterine growth restriction associated with gestational hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Qun Hu
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA.
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49
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Mazzuca MQ, Tare M, Parkington HC, Dragomir NM, Parry LJ, Wlodek ME. Uteroplacental insufficiency programmes vascular dysfunction in non-pregnant rats: compensatory adaptations in pregnancy. J Physiol 2012; 590:3375-88. [PMID: 22586217 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.230011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease in adulthood. We have previously shown that intrauterine growth restriction caused by uteroplacental insufficiency programmes uterine vascular dysfunction and increased arterial stiffness in adult female rat offspring. The aim of this study was to investigate vascular adaptations in growth restricted female offspring when they in turn become pregnant. Uteroplacental insufficiency was induced in WKY rats by bilateral uterine vessel ligation (Restricted) or sham surgery (Control) on day 18 of pregnancy. F0 pregnant females delivered naturally at term. F1 Control and Restricted offspring were mated at 4 months of age and studied on day 20 of pregnancy. Age-matched non-pregnant F1 Control and Restricted females were also studied. Wire and pressure myography were used to test endothelial and smooth muscle function, and passive mechanical wall properties, respectively, in uterine, mesenteric, renal and femoral arteries of all four groups. Collagen and elastin fibres were quantified using polarized light microscopy and qRT-PCR. F1 Restricted females were born 10–15% lighter than Controls (P <0.05). Non-pregnant Restricted females had increased uterine and renal artery stiffness compared with Controls (P <0.05), but this difference was abolished at day 20 of pregnancy. Vascular smooth muscle and endothelial function were preserved in all arteries of non-pregnant and pregnant Restricted rats. Collagen and elastin content were unaltered in uterine arteries of Restricted females. Growth restricted females develop compensatory vascular changes during late pregnancy, such that region-specific vascular deficits observed in the non-pregnant state did not persist in late pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Q Mazzuca
- Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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50
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Goulopoulou S, Hannan JL, Matsumoto T, Webb RC. Pregnancy reduces RhoA/Rho kinase and protein kinase C signaling pathways downstream of thromboxane receptor activation in the rat uterine artery. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2012; 302:H2477-88. [PMID: 22542618 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00900.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, reduced vascular responses to constrictors contribute to decreased uterine and total vascular resistance. Thromboxane A(2) (TxA(2)) is a potent vasoconstrictor that exerts its actions via diverse signaling pathways, and its biosynthesis increases in preeclampsia. In this study, we hypothesized that maternal vascular responses to TxA(2) will be attenuated via Rho kinase, PKC, p38 MAPK, and ERK1/2 signaling pathways. Isolated ring segments of uterine and small mesenteric arteries from late pregnant (19-21 days) and virgin rats were suspended in a myograph, and isometric force was measured. Pregnancy did not affect uterine and mesenteric artery responses to the TxA(2) analog U-46619 (10(-9)-10(-5) M), but transduction signals associated with these contractions were different between pregnant and nonpregnant rats. Inhibition of Rho kinase (10(-6) M Y-27632) reduced sensitivity to U-46619 in virgin uterine vessels but did not inhibit these contractions in pregnant uterine arteries and had no effect on mesenteric vessels. Treatment of arterial segments with a PKC inhibitor (10(-6) M bisindolylmaleimide I) reduced U-46619-induced contractions in virgin uterine and mesenteric arteries and in pregnant mesenteric arteries. Pregnant uterine arteries, however, were unresponsive to PKC inhibition. Inhibition of ERK1/2 (10(-5) M PD-98059) and p38 MAPK (10(-5) M SB-203580) reduced U46619-induced contractions in nonpregnant vessels and in pregnant uterine and mesenteric vessels. These data suggest that normal pregnancy does not affect uterine and mesenteric contractile responses to TxA(2) but reduces the contribution of Rho kinase and PKC signaling pathways to these contractions in the uterine vasculature. In contrast, the role of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK in U-46619-induced uterine contractions remains unchanged with pregnancy. TxA(2)-associated transduction signals and its regulators might present potential targets for the development of new treatments for preeclampsia and other pregnancy-associated vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Styliani Goulopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, Georgia 30912, USA.
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