Regional differences in endothelium-dependent relaxation in the rat: contribution of nitric oxide and nitric oxide-independent mechanisms

Moderate-Intensity Exercise Improves Mesenteric Arterial Function in Male UC Davis Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus (UCD-T2DM) Rats: A Shift in the Relative Importance of Endothelium-Derived Relaxing Factors (EDRF)

The beneficial cardiovascular effects of exercise are well documented, however the mechanisms by which exercise improves vascular function in diabetes are not fully understood. This study investigates whether there are (1) improvements in blood pressure and endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation (EDV) and (2) alterations in the relative contribution of endothelium-derived relaxing factors (EDRF) in modulating mesenteric arterial reactivity in male UC Davis type-2 diabetes mellitus (UCD-T2DM) rats, following an 8-week moderate-intensity exercise (MIE) intervention. EDV to acetylcholine (ACh) was measured before and after exposure to pharmacological inhibitors. Contractile responses to phenylephrine and myogenic tone were determined. The arterial expressions of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS), cyclooxygenase (COX), and calcium-activated potassium channel (K_Ca) channels were also measured. T2DM significantly impaired EDV, increased contractile responses and myogenic tone. The impairment of EDV was accompanied by elevated NO and COX importance, whereas the contribution of prostanoid- and NO-independent (endothelium-derived hyperpolarization, EDH) relaxation was not apparent compared to controls. MIE 1) enhanced EDV, while it reduced contractile responses, myogenic tone and systolic blood pressure (SBP), and 2) caused a shift away from a reliance on COX toward a greater reliance on EDH in diabetic arteries. We provide the first evidence of the beneficial effects of MIE via the altered importance of EDRF in mesenteric arterial relaxation in male UCD-T2DM rats.

17β-Estradiol Treatment Improves Acetylcholine-Induced Relaxation of Mesenteric Arteries in Ovariectomized UC Davis Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Rats in Prediabetic State

We recently reported sex differences in mesenteric arterial function of the UC Davis type-2 diabetes mellitus (UCD-T2DM) rats as early as the prediabetic state. We reported that mesenteric arteries (MA) from prediabetic male rats exhibited a greater impairment compared to that in prediabetic females. However, when females became diabetic, they exhibited a greater vascular dysfunction than males. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate whether the female sex hormone, estrogen preserves mesenteric arterial vasorelaxation in UCD-T2DM female rats at an early prediabetic state. Age-matched female Sprague Dawley and prediabetic (PD) UCD-T2DM rats were ovariectomized (OVX) and subcutaneously implanted with either placebo or 17β-estradiol (E_2, 1.5 mg) pellets for 45 days. We assessed the contribution of endothelium-derived relaxing factors (EDRF) to acetylcholine (ACh)-induced vasorelaxation, using pharmacological inhibitors. Responses to sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and phenylephrine (PE) were also measured. Additionally, metabolic parameters and expression of some targets associated with vascular and insulin signaling were determined. We demonstrated that the responses to ACh and SNP were severely impaired in the prediabetic state (PD OVX) rats, while E₂ treatment restored vasorelaxation in the PD OVX + E₂. Moreover, the responses to PE was significantly enhanced in MA of PD OVX groups, regardless of placebo or E₂ treatment. Overall, our data suggest that 1) the impairment of ACh responses in PD OVX rats may, in part, result from the elevated contractile responses to PE, loss of contribution of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH) to vasorelaxation, and a decreased sensitivity of MA to nitric oxide (NO), and 2) the basis for the protective effects of E₂ may be partly attributed to the elevation of the NO contribution to vasorelaxation and its interaction with MA as well as potential improvement of insulin signaling. Here, we provide the first evidence of the role of E₂ in protecting MA from early vascular dysfunction in prediabetic female rats.

NO-induced vasodilation correlates directly with BP in smooth muscle-Na/Ca exchanger-1-engineered mice: elevated BP does not attenuate endothelial function

Arterial smooth muscle Na+/Ca2+ exchanger-1 (SM-NCX1) promotes vasoconstriction or vasodilation by mediating, respectively, Ca2+ influx or efflux. In vivo, SM-NCX1 mediates net Ca2+ influx to help maintain myogenic tone (MT) and neuronally activated constriction. SM-NCX1-TG (overexpressing transgenic) mice have increased MT and mean blood pressure (MBP; +13.5 mmHg); SM-NCX1-KO (knockout) mice have reduced MT and MBP (-11.1 mmHg). Endothelium-dependent vasodilation (EDV) is often impaired in hypertension. We tested whether genetically engineered SM-NCX1 expression and consequent BP changes similarly alter EDV. Isolated, pressurized mesenteric resistance arteries with MT from SM-NCX1-TG and conditional SM-NCX1-KO mice, and femoral arteries in vivo from TG mice were studied. Acetylcholine (ACh)-dilated TG arteries with MT slightly more than control or KO arteries, implying that SM-NCX1 overexpression does not impair EDV. In preconstricted KO, but not TG mouse arteries, however, ACh- and bradykinin-triggered vasodilation was markedly attenuated. To circumvent the endothelium, phenylephrine-constricted resistance arteries were tested with Na-nitroprusside [SNP; nitric oxide (NO) donor] and cGMP. This endothelium-independent vasodilation was augmented in TG but attenuated in KO arteries that lack NCX1-mediated Ca2+ clearance. Baseline cytosolic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]cyt) was elevated in TG femoral arteries in vivo, supporting the high BP; furthermore, SNP-triggered [Ca2+]cyt decline and vasodilation were augmented as NO and cGMP promote myocyte polarization thereby enhancing NCX1-mediated Ca2+ efflux. The TG mouse data indicate that BP elevation does not attenuate endothelium-dependent vasodilation. Thus, in essential hypertension and many models the endothelial impairment that supports the hypertension apparently is not triggered by BP elevation but by extravascular mechanisms.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Endothelium-dependent, ACh-induced vasodilation (EDV) is attenuated, and arterial myocyte Na+/Ca2+ exchangers (NCX1) are upregulated in many forms of hypertension. Surprisingly, mildly hypertensive smooth muscle-specific (SM)-NCX1 transgenic mice exhibited modestly enhanced EDV and augmented endothelium-independent vasodilation (EIV). Conversely, mildly hypotensive SM-NCX1-knockout mice had greatly attenuated EIV. These adaptations help compensate for NCX1 expression-induced alterations in cytosolic Ca2+ and blood pressure (BP) and belie the view that elevated BP, itself, causes the endothelial dysregulation in hypertension.

Vampire Venom: Vasodilatory Mechanisms of Vampire Bat (Desmodus rotundus) Blood Feeding

Animals that specialise in blood feeding have particular challenges in obtaining their meal, whereby they impair blood hemostasis by promoting anticoagulation and vasodilation in order to facilitate feeding. These convergent selection pressures have been studied in a number of lineages, ranging from fleas to leeches. However, the vampire bat (Desmondus rotundus) is unstudied in regards to potential vasodilatory mechanisms of their feeding secretions (which are a type of venom). This is despite the intense investigations of their anticoagulant properties which have demonstrated that D. rotundus venom contains strong anticoagulant and proteolytic activities which delay the formation of blood clots and interfere with the blood coagulation cascade. In this study, we identified and tested a compound from D. rotundus venom that is similar in size and amino acid sequence to human calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) which has potent vasodilatory properties. We found that the vampire bat-derived form of CGRP (i.e., vCGRP) selectively caused endothelium-independent relaxation of pre-contracted rat small mesenteric arteries. The vasorelaxant efficacy and potency of vCGRP were similar to that of CGRP, in activating CGRP receptors and Kv channels to relax arteriole smooth muscle, which would facilitate blood meal feeding by promoting continual blood flow. Our results provide, for the first time, a detailed investigation into the identification and function of a vasodilatory peptide found in D. rotundus venom, which provides a basis in understanding the convergent pathways and selectivity of hematophagous venoms. These unique peptides also show excellent drug design and development potential, thus highlighting the social and economic value of venomous animals.

Hyperandrogenemia reduces endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated relaxation in mesenteric artery of female rats

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are often presented with hyperandrogenemia along with vascular dysfunction and elevated blood pressure. In animal models of PCOS, anti-androgen treatment decreased blood pressure, indicating a key role for androgens in the development of hypertension. However, the underlying androgen-mediated mechanism that contributes to increased blood pressure is not known. This study determined whether elevated androgens affect endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF)-mediated vascular relaxation responses through alteration in function of gap junctional proteins. Female rats were implanted with placebo or dihydrotestosterone (DHT) pellets (7.5 mg, 90-day release). After 12 weeks of DHT exposure, blood pressure was assessed through carotid arterial catheter and endothelium-dependent mesenteric arterial EDHF relaxation using wire myograph. Connexin expression in mesenteric arteries was also examined. Elevated DHT significantly increased mean arterial pressure and decreased endothelium-dependent EDHF-mediated acetylcholine relaxation. Inhibition of Cx40 did not have any effect, while inhibition of Cx37 decreased EDHF relaxation to a similar magnitude in both controls and DHT females. On the other hand, inhibition of Cx43 significantly attenuated EDHF relaxation in mesenteric arteries of controls but not DHT females. Elevated DHT did not alter Cx37 or Cx40, but decreased Cx43 mRNA and protein levels in mesenteric arteries. In vitro exposure of DHT to cultured mesenteric artery smooth muscle cells dose-dependently downregulated Cx43 expression. In conclusion, increased blood pressure in hyperandrogenic females is due, at least in part, to decreased EDHF-mediated vascular relaxation responses. Decreased Cx43 expression and activity may play a role in contributing to androgen-induced decrease in EDHF function.

Regional Heterogeneity in the Regulation of Vasoconstriction in Arteries and Its Role in Vascular Mechanics

Vasoconstriction and vasodilation play important roles in the circulatory system and can be regulated through different pathways that depend on myriad biomolecules. These different pathways reflect the various functions of smooth muscle cell (SMC) contractility within the different regions of the arterial tree and how they contribute to both the mechanics and the mechanobiology. Here, we review the primary regulatory pathways involved in SMC contractility and highlight their regional differences in elastic, muscular, and resistance arteries. In this way, one can begin to assess how these properties affect important biomechanical and mechanobiological functions in the circulatory system in health and disease.

Hypotensive effects of ghrelin receptor agonists mediated through a novel receptor

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Some agonists of ghrelin receptors cause rapid decreases in BP. The mechanisms by which they cause hypotension and the pharmacology of the receptors are unknown.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The effects of ligands of ghrelin receptors were investigated in rats in vivo, on isolated blood vessels and on cells transfected with the only molecularly defined ghrelin receptor, growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHSR1a).

KEY RESULTS

Three agonists of GHSR1a receptors, ulimorelin, capromorelin and CP464709, caused a rapid decrease in BP in the anaesthetized rat. The effect was not reduced by either of two GHSR1a antagonists, JMV2959 or YIL781, at doses that blocked effects on colorectal motility, in vivo. The rapid hypotension was not mimicked by ghrelin, unacylated ghrelin or the unacylated ghrelin receptor agonist, AZP531. The early hypotension preceded a decrease in sympathetic nerve activity. Early hypotension was not reduced by hexamethonium or by baroreceptor (sino-aortic) denervation. Ulimorelin also relaxed isolated segments of rat mesenteric artery, and, less potently, relaxed aorta segments. The vascular relaxation was not reduced by JMV2959 or YIL781. Ulimorelin, capromorelin and CP464709 activated GHSR1a in transfected HEK293 cells at nanomolar concentrations. JMV2959 and YIL781 both antagonized effects in these cells, with their pA2 values at the GHSR1a receptor being 6.55 and 7.84.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our results indicate a novel vascular receptor or receptors whose activation by ulimorelin, capromorelin and CP464709 lowered BP. This receptor is activated by low MW GHSR1a agonists, but is not activated by ghrelin.

H2S and NO cooperatively regulate vascular tone by activating a neuroendocrine HNO-TRPA1-CGRP signalling pathway

Nitroxyl (HNO) is a redox sibling of nitric oxide (NO) that targets distinct signalling pathways with pharmacological endpoints of high significance in the treatment of heart failure. Beneficial HNO effects depend, in part, on its ability to release calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) through an unidentified mechanism. Here we propose that HNO is generated as a result of the reaction of the two gasotransmitters NO and H₂S. We show that H₂S and NO production colocalizes with transient receptor potential channel A1 (TRPA1), and that HNO activates the sensory chemoreceptor channel TRPA1 via formation of amino-terminal disulphide bonds, which results in sustained calcium influx. As a consequence, CGRP is released, which induces local and systemic vasodilation. H₂S-evoked vasodilatatory effects largely depend on NO production and activation of HNO–TRPA1–CGRP pathway. We propose that this neuroendocrine HNO–TRPA1–CGRP signalling pathway constitutes an essential element for the control of vascular tone throughout the cardiovascular system.

Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) are two gaseous signalling molecules produced in tissues. Here the authors propose that NO and H₂S react with each other to form nitroxyl (HNO), which activates the TRPA1 channel in nerve cells and triggers the release of the vasoactive peptide CGRP.

Temporal characteristics of nitric oxide-, prostaglandin-, and EDHF-mediated components of endothelium-dependent vasodilation in the kidney

Endothelium-dependent vasodilation is mediated by nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandins (PG), and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). We studied the contributions and temporal characteristics of these components in the renal vasodilator responses to acetylcholine (ACh) and bradykinin (BK) and in the buffering of vasoconstrictor responses to norepinephrine (NE) and angiotensin II (ANG II). Renal blood flow (RBF) and vascular conductance (RVC) were studied in anesthetized rats in response to renal arterial bolus injections before and after inhibition of NO-synthase ( NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, l-NAME), cyclooxygenase (indomethacin, INDO), or both. ACh increased RVC peaking at maximal time ( tmax) = 29 s. l-NAME ( n = 8) diminished the integrated response and made it substantially faster ( tmax = 18 s). The point-by-point difference caused by l-NAME (= NO component) integrated to 74% of control and was much slower ( tmax = 38 s). INDO ( n = 9) reduced the response without affecting tmax (36 vs. 30 s). The difference (= PG) reached 21% of the control with tmax = 25 s. l-NAME+INDO ( n = 17) reduced the response to 18% and markedly accelerated tmax to 16s (= EDHF). Results were similar for BK with slightly more PG and less NO contribution than for ACh. Constrictor responses to NE and ANG II were augmented and decelerated by l-NAME and l-NAME+INDO. The calculated difference (= buffering by NO or NO+PG) was slower than the constriction. It is concluded that NO, PG, and EDHF contribute >50%, 20–40%, and <20% to the renal vasodilator effect of ACh and BK, respectively. EDHF acts substantially faster and less sustained ( tmax = 16 s) than NO and PG ( tmax = 30 s). Constrictor buffering by NO and PG is not constant over time, but renders the constriction less sustained.

Sex differences in mesenteric endothelial function of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: a shift in the relative importance of EDRFs

Several studies suggest that diabetes affects male and female vascular beds differently. However, the mechanisms underlying the interaction of sex and diabetes remain to be investigated. This study investigates whether there are 1) sex differences in the development of abnormal vascular responses and 2) changes in the relative contributions of endothelium-derived relaxing factors in modulating vascular reactivity of mesenteric arteries taken from streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats at early and intermediate stages of the disease (1 and 8 wk, respectively). We also investigated the mesenteric expression of the mRNAs for endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) and NADPH oxidase (Nox) in STZ-induced diabetes in both sexes. Vascular responses to acetylcholine (ACh) in mesenteric arterial rings precontracted with phenylephrine were measured before and after pretreatment with indomethacin (cyclooxygenase inhibitor), N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (NOS inhibitor), or barium chloride (K(ir) blocker) plus ouabain (Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase inhibitor). We demonstrated that ACh-induced relaxations were significantly impaired in mesenteric arteries from both male and female diabetic rats at 1 and 8 wk. However, at 8 wk the extent of impairment was significantly greater in diabetic females than diabetic males. Our data also showed that in females, the levels of eNOS, Nox2, and Nox4 mRNA expression and the relative importance of NO to the regulation of vascular reactivity were substantially enhanced, whereas the importance of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) was significantly reduced at both 1 and 8 wk after the induction of diabetes. This study reveals the predisposition of female rat mesenteric arteries to vascular injury after the induction of diabetes may be due to a shift away from a putative EDHF, initially the major vasodilatory factor, toward a greater reliance on NO.

Novel role of endothelial BKCa channels in altered vasoreactivity following hypoxia

The systemic vasculature exhibits attenuated vasoconstriction following hypobaric chronic hypoxia (CH) that is associated with endothelium-dependent vascular smooth muscle (VSM) cell hyperpolarization. We hypothesized that increased activity of endothelial cell (EC) large-conductance, calcium-activated potassium (BK(Ca)) channels contributes to this response. Gracilis resistance arteries from hypobaric CH (barometric pressure = 380 mmHg for 48 h) rats demonstrated reduced myogenic reactivity and hyperpolarized VSM membrane potential (E(m)) compared with controls under normoxic ex vivo conditions. These differences were eliminated by endothelial disruption. In the presence of cyclooxygenase and nitric oxide synthase inhibition, combined intraluminal administration of the intermediate and small-conductance, calcium-activated K(+) channel blockers TRAM-34 and apamin was without effect on myogenic responsiveness and VSM E(m) in both groups; however, these variables were normalized in CH arteries by intraluminal administration of the BK(Ca) inhibitor iberiotoxin (IBTX). Basal EC E(m) was hyperpolarized in arteries from CH rats compared with controls and was restored by IBTX, but not by TRAM-34/apamin. K(+) channel blockers were without effect on EC basal E(m) in controls. Similarly, IBTX blocked acetylcholine-induced dilation in arteries from CH rats, but was without effect in controls, whereas TRAM-34/apamin eliminated dilation in controls. Acetylcholine-induced EC hyperpolarization and calcium responses were inhibited by IBTX in CH arteries and by TRAM-34/apamin in controls. Patch-clamp experiments on freshly isolated ECs demonstrated greater K(+) current in cells from CH rats that was normalized by IBTX. IBTX was without effect on K(+) current in controls. We conclude that hypobaric CH induces increased endothelial BK(Ca) channel activity that contributes to reduced myogenic responsiveness and EC and VSM cell hyperpolarization.

Apelin effects in human splanchnic arteries. Role of nitric oxide and prostanoids

Apelin effects were examined in human splanchnic arteries from liver donors (normal arteries) and from liver recipients. Segments 3 mm long were obtained from mesenteric arteries taken from liver donors (normal arteries), and from hepatic arteries taken from cirrhotic patients undergoing liver transplantation (liver recipients), and the segments were mounted in organ baths for isometric tension recording. In arteries under resting conditions, apelin (10(-10)-10(-6) M) caused no effect in any of the arteries tested. In arteries precontracted with the thromboxane A(2) analogue U46619 (10(-7)-10(-6) M), apelin (10(-10)-10(-6) M) produced concentration-dependent relaxation that was lower in hepatic than in mesenteric arteries, whereas sodium nitroprusside (10(-8)-10(-4) M) produced a similar relaxation in both types of arteries. The inhibitor of nitric oxide synthesis N(w)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10(-4) M) diminished the relaxation to apelin in mesenteric but not in hepatic arteries. The inhibitor of cyclooxygenase meclofenamate (10(-5) M) did not affect the relaxation provoked by apelin in both types of arteries. Therefore, apelin may produce relaxation in normal human splanchnic arteries, and this relaxation may be mediated in part by nitric oxide without involvement of prostanoids. This relaxation as well as the role of nitric oxide may be decreased in splanchnic arteries from cirrhotic patients.

Analysis of L-NAME-dependent and -resistant responses to acetylcholine in the rat

The mechanism by which acetylcholine (ACh) decreases systemic arterial pressure and hindlimb vascular resistance was investigated in the anesthetized rat. ACh injections caused dose-dependent decreases in systemic arterial pressure and hindlimb vascular resistance. N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) had little effect on the magnitude of depressor and vasodilator responses but decreased response duration when baseline parameters were corrected by a nitric oxide (NO) donor infusion. The decrease in the duration of the ACh depressor response was prevented by the administration of excess L-arginine. The L-NAME-resistant component of the depressor response to ACh was attenuated by ebselen, a glutathione peroxidase mimic. The calcium-activated potassium (K(Ca)) antagonists charybdotoxin (ChTX) and apamin decreased the magnitude but not the duration of the hindlimb vasodilator response to ACh. The combination of L-NAME, ChTX, and apamin reduced the magnitude and duration of the vasodilator response to ACh but not to sodium nitroprusside. Vasodepressor and hindlimb vasodilator responses to ACh were not modified by cytochrome P-450 and cyclooxygenase pathway inhibitors. These results suggest that the hindlimb vasodilator response to ACh has an initial L-NAME-resistant component mediated by the activation of K(Ca) channels and a sustained L-NAME-dependent component. The results with ebselen suggest that the L-NAME-resistant component of the depressor response involves a peroxide-sensitive mechanism. The present study suggests that vasodilator responses to ACh are not mediated by cytochrome P-450 products, since miconazole and 1-aminobentriazole alone or in combination did not affect either component of the response. The present data suggest that the hindlimb vasodilator response to ACh in the rat is mediated by two mechanisms with an initial ChTX- and apamin-sensitive, L-NAME-resistant phase not mediated by cytochrome P-450 products and a secondary sustained phase mediated by NO.

Endothelium-dependent relaxation of isolated splanchnic arteries from cirrhotic patients: Role of reactive oxygen species

AIM

To examine the endothelium-dependent relaxation of splanchnic arteries during cirrhosis as well as the role of reactive oxygen species in this relaxation using hepatic arteries from cirrhotic patients undergoing liver transplantation and mesenteric arteries from liver donors.

METHODS

Arterial segments 3 mm long were mounted in organ baths for isometric tension recording and precontracted with the thromboxane A(2) analog U46619 (10(-7)-10(-6) M).

RESULTS

The relaxation to acetylcholine (10(-8)-10(-4) M), but not to sodium nitroprusside (10(-8)-10(-4) M) was lower in hepatic arteries. The inhibitor of nitric oxide synthesis, N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME, 10(-4) M), the inhibitor of cyclooxygenase, meclofenamate (10(-5) M), or l-NAME (10(-4) M) + meclofenamate (10(-5) M) diminished the relaxation to acetylcholine only in mesenteric arteries. l-NAME (10(-4) M) + meclofenamate (10(-5) M) combined with charybdotoxin (10(-7) M) + apamine (10(-6) M) inhibited the relaxation toacetylcholine in both types of arteries, and this inhibition was greater than with l-NAME + meclofenamate. The scavenger of hydrogen peroxide, catalase (1000 U/mL), the superoxide dismutase mimetic, tiron (10(-2) M) or the inhibitor of NAD(P)H oxidase, diphenyleneiodonium (5 x 10(-6) M), but not the inhibitor of superoxide dismutase, diethyldithiocarbamate (10(-3) M) potentiated the acetylcholine-induced relaxation only in hepatic arteries. l-NAME did inhibit the relaxation to acetylcholine in hepatic arteries pretreated with catalase or tiron.

CONCLUSIONS

Cirrhosis may decrease endothelial release and/or bioavailability of nitric oxide and prostacyclin in splanchnic arteries, which might be caused partly by increased production of reactive oxygen species.

Effects of Endothelium-Derived Hyperpolarizing Factor and Nitric Oxide on Endothelial Function in Femoral Resistance Arteries of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

In hypertension, endothelium-dependent relaxation is attenuated and this attenuation contributes to the increased peripheral resistance. However, the role of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) in the arteries of hypertensive rats remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the role of EDHF in the femoral resistance arteries of hypertensive rats. The femoral resistance arteries were isolated from 5-, 15- and 25-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and age-matched Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY). Changes in internal diameter were examined with videomicroscopy. EDHF-mediated dilatation was determined by differences between the degree of acetylcholine (ACh)-induced dilatation in the presence of NG-monomethy-L-arginine (L-NMMA) plus a prostaglandin I2 inhibitor (indomethacin) and the degree of such dilatation in the presence of L-NMMA, indomethacin and KCl. Charybdotoxin (CTx) and apamin (a Ca2+-activated K+ channel [KCa] inhibitor)-sensitive EDHF dilatation was also compared between in 5-, 15- and 25-week-old SHR and WKY. ACh-induced vasodilatation was not different between 5-week-old SHR and WKY. There was no difference between NO- and EDHF-mediated vasodilatation in 5-week-old rats. ACh-induced vasodilatation was weaker in 15-week-old SHR than in WKY. NO-mediated vasodilatation did not differ between the two groups. EDHF-mediated dilatation was attenuated in SHR but not in WKY. ACh-induced dilatation was weaker in 25-week-old SHR than in WKY. NO- and EDHF-mediated vasodilatation were attenuated in SHR but not WKY. EDHF-mediated vasodilatation was attenuated before the loss of NO-mediated vasodilatation in the femoral resistance arteries of SHR. The attenuation of this vasodilatation was mediated by the CTx plus apamin-sensitive EDHF.

Inhibition of acetylcholine-induced EDHF response by elevated glucose in rat mesenteric artery

The effects of high glucose on endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF)-mediated relaxations of isolated rat mesenteric artery and the possible involvement of reactive oxygen species in these responses were investigated. After precontraction with phenylephrine (3 x 10(-8)-10(-7) M), acetylcholine (10(-8)-3 x 10(-6) M) and A 23187 (10(-8)-3 x 10(-6) M), a calcium ionophore, induced concentration-dependent relaxations in the presence of N(W)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (10(-4) M) and indomethacin (10(-5) M). These relaxations were abolished in the presence of charybdotoxin (2 x 10(-7) M) plus apamin (10(-7) M) and were assumed to be mediated by EDHF. Effects of elevated glucose were examined by incubating the arterial rings for 6 h in Krebs-Henseleit solution containing 22.2 mM glucose. Under these conditions relaxation to acetylcholine was significantly attenuated but was unchanged when the tissues were incubated for 6 h in solution containing 11.1 mM mannitol used as hyperosmotic control. Addition of superoxide dismutase (SOD) (75 U/ml) and combination of SOD with catalase (200 U/ml) during incubation with high glucose significantly preserved the impairment of EDHF-mediated relaxations to acetylcholine. A 23187-induced endothelium-dependent relaxation was not affected by high glucose. Similarly, relaxations to pinacidil (10(-10)-10(-5) M) and to sodium nitroprusside (SNP) (10(-10)-3 x 10(-7) M) were also unchanged in the rings exposed to high glucose. These results suggest that in rat mesenteric arteries exposed to elevated glucose receptor-dependent EDHF-mediated relaxations (acetylcholine-induced) are impaired whereas receptor-independent ones (A 23187-induced) and responses to smooth muscle relaxants that exert their effects through mechanisms independent of endothelium are unaffected. Our findings lead us to propose that reactive oxygen species like superoxide ((.)O(2)(-)) and hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) do seem to play a role in the impairment of EDHF-mediated relaxations in the presence of elevated glucose.

Mechanisms of the Dilator Action of Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) on Rat Isolated Femoral Artery

This study investigates the actions of Danshen crude extract (Salvia miltiorrhiza) on rat isolated femoral artery rings precontracted with phenylephrine. Low concentrations of Danshen (10 to 30 microg/mL) enhanced the phenylephrine-precontracted tone by a maximum of 31.20+/-2.71%. At concentrations 100 microg/mL or above, Danshen relaxed the precontracted tone, with full relaxation obtained at 1 mg/mL. Involvement of endothelium-dependant mechanisms in the dilator effect of Danshen was investigated by pretreatment of the artery rings with a cyclooxygenase inhibitor flurbiprofen (10 microM), a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 100 microM), a muscarinic receptor antagonist atropine (100 nM), and by mechanical removal of the endothelium; none of these procedures produced a significant change on the Danshen-induced effect. Involvement of endothelium-independent mechanisms was investigated in endothelium-denuded artery rings pretreated with a histamine H2 receptor antagonist cimetidine (10 microM), a beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol (100 nM), an adenylyl cyclase inhibitor 9-(tetrahydro-2-furanyl)-9H-purine-6-amine (SQ22536, 100 microM), a guanylyl cyclase inhibitor 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ, 10 microM), and a potassium channel inhibitor tetraethylammonium (TEA, 10 and 100 mM); only TEA was effective in partially inhibiting the Danshen-induced effect. These findings suggest the dilator action of Danshen on rat femoral artery was mediated in part by the opening of TEA-sensitive K+ channels in the smooth muscle cells. Muscarinic receptors, histamine receptors, beta-adrenoceptors, endothelium-derived relaxant factors, adenylyl cyclase, and guanylyl cyclase-dependent pathways did not play a role in its vasodilatory effect.

Mediators involved in decreasing peripheral vascular resistance with carbachol in the rat hind limb perfusion model

We examined the involvement of nitric oxide (NO) and/or endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) in decreasing peripheral vascular resistance in the rat hind limb perfusion model and analyzed the identity of EDHF in this model. The potency of carbachol (CCh) to produce relaxation was quantitatively similar to sodium nitroprusside (SNP). CCh-induced relaxation was abolished after endothelial denudation, but resistant to nitroarginine and indomethacin. The relaxation was inhibited by tetraethylammonium, ouabain, charybdotoxin plus apamin, and under depolarization. SNP-induced relaxation was accompanied by increased cGMP production, which was inhibited by ODQ (1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxaline-l-one). Although CCh produced a similar extent of relaxation to SNP, the cGMP level was 24 times lower than that with SNP. Low KCl produced a definite relaxation, which was inhibited by ouabain, but independent of NO, prostacyclin, and endothelium. 1-EBIO (1-ethyl-2-benzimidazolinone) as an activator of IK(Ca) channel also produced a concentration-dependent relaxation, which was inhibited by charybdotoxin, ouabain, and depolarization, but independent of NO and prostacyclin. Clotrimazole and 17-octadecynoic acid as inhibitors of P(450) monooxygenase inhibited the CCh-induced relaxation. Meanwhile, catalase at a concentration sufficient to inhibit H(2)O(2)-induced relaxation did not exert definite inhibition of the CCh-induced relaxation. These results suggest that CCh produces an endothelium-dependent, EDHF-dependent, and NO-cGMP-independent relaxation and that K(+) and metabolite(s) of P(450) monooxygenase possibly play an important role for this relaxation.

Endothelium-dependent smooth muscle hyperpolarization: do gap junctions provide a unifying hypothesis?

An endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) that is distinct from nitric oxide (NO) and prostanoids has been widely hypothesized to hyperpolarize and relax vascular smooth muscle following stimulation of the endothelium by agonists. Candidates as diverse as K(+) ions, eicosanoids, hydrogen peroxide and C-type natriuretic peptide have been implicated as the putative mediator, but none has emerged as a 'universal EDHF'. An alternative explanation for the EDHF phenomenon is that direct intercellular communication via gap junctions allows passive spread of agonist-induced endothelial hyperpolarization through the vessel wall. In some arteries, eicosanoids and K(+) ions may themselves initiate a conducted endothelial hyperpolarization, thus suggesting that electrotonic signalling may represent a general mechanism through which the endothelium participates in the regulation of vascular tone.

Superoxide dismutase reduces the impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation in the spontaneously hypertensive rat aorta

The involvement of the superoxide anion in endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) was examined in noradrenaline-contracted aortic smooth muscle preparations isolated from normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) and stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP). Acetylcholine (ACh, 10(-9)-10(-5) M) induced EDR in both WKY and SHRSP preparations in a concentration-dependent manner, but with a significantly smaller amplitude in those from SHRSP than in those from WKY. The ACh-induced EDR was inhibited by N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine (L-NOARG), in a concentration-dependent manner, both in WKY and SHRSP. The EDR produced in WKY in the presence of 3 x 10(-6) M L-NOARG was similar in magnitude to that produced in SHRSP in the absence of L-NOARG. Superoxide dismutase (SOD, 300 units/ml) increased the amplitude of EDR in SHRSP but not in WKY, with no alteration of the threshold or of the maximal amplitude. The maximal amplitude of EDR produced in SHRSP in the presence of SOD was still smaller than that in WKY. In WKY, a possible involvement of superoxide in the EDR was examined in aortae whose EDR was partially inhibited by treatment with a subthreshold concentration (3 x 10 (-6) M) of L-NOARG. In the L-NOARG-conditioned aorta, the reduced EDR was partially but significantly recovered by SOD. These results suggest that the impaired EDR in aortae of SHRSP may be causally related to a higher production of superoxide. The L-NOARG-induced inhibition of EDR in WKY may be produced, in part, by the reduction of effective NO due to its destruction by superoxide.

Mesenteric arterial relaxation to calcitonin gene-related peptide is increased during pregnancy and by sex steroid hormones

The present study investigated whether pregnancy and circulatory ovarian hormones increase the sensitivity of the mesenteric artery to calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-induced relaxation and possible mechanisms involved in this process. Mesenteric arteries from young adult male rats or female rats (during estrous cycle, after ovariectomy, at Day 20 of gestation, or Postpartum Day 2) were isolated, and the responsiveness of the vessels to CGRP was examined with a small vessel myograph. The CGRP (10(-10) to 10(-7) M) produced a concentration-dependent relaxation of norepinephrine-induced contractions in mesenteric arteries of all groups. Arterial relaxation sensitivity to CGRP was significantly (P < 0.05) greater in female rats compared with male rats. Pregnancy increased the sensitivity to CGRP significantly (P < 0.05) compared to ovariectomized and Postpartum Day 2 rats. In pregnant rats, CGRP-receptor antagonist, CGRP(8-37), inhibited the relaxation responses produced by CGRP. The CGRP-induced relaxation was not affected by N(G)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (nitric oxide inhibitor, 10(-4) M) but was significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated by an inhibitor of guanylate cyclase (1H-[1 , 2 , 4 ]oxadizaolo[4 , 3 -a]quinoxalin-1-one, 10(-5) M). Relaxation responses of CGRP on mesenteric arteries were blocked (P < 0.05) by a cAMP-dependent protein kinase A inhibitor, Rp-cAMPs (10(-5) M). The CGRP-induced vasorelaxation was significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated by calcium-dependent (tetraethylammonium, 10(-3) M), but not ATP-sensitive (glybenclamide, 10(-5) M), potassium channel blocker. Therefore, the results of the present study suggest that mesenteric vascular sensitivity to CGRP is higher during pregnancy and that cAMP, cGMP, and calcium-dependent potassium channels appear to be involved. Therefore, we propose that CGRP-mediated vasodilation may be important to maintain vascular adaptations during pregnancy.

Impaired EDHF-mediated vasodilatation in adult offspring of rats exposed to a fat-rich diet in pregnancy

We recently reported vascular dysfunction in adult offspring of rats fed a fat-rich (animal lard) diet in pregnancy. This study reports further characterization of constrictor and dilator function in mesenteric and caudal femoral arteries from 180-day-old offspring of dams fed the high fat diet (OHF). Endothelium-dependent relaxation in response to acetylcholine (10(-9)-10(-5)m) was impaired in mesenteric small arteries from male and female OHF compared with offspring of dams fed normal chow (males (maximum percentage relaxation): OHF 67.92 +/- 2.89, n= 8 versus control 92.08 +/- 2.19, n= 8, P < 0.01). Substantial relaxation in response to acetycholine in control mesenteric arteries remained after inhibition of nitric oxide synthase, soluble guanylate cyclase and cyclo-oxygenase but was blocked by 25 mm potassium. This component of relaxation, attributed to EDHF, was significantly reduced in OHF mesenteric arteries compared with controls. However, EDHF played a minor role in acetylcholine-induced relaxation in both control and OHF femoral caudal arteries (male and female). In these arteries, in contrast to mesenteric vessels, acetylcholine-induced relaxation was significantly enhanced in OHF but only in males (ACh (maximum percentage relaxation): OHF 58.40 +/- 4.39, n= 8 versus male controls 32.18 +/- 6.36, P < 0.05). This was attributable to enhanced nitric oxide-mediated relaxation. In conclusion, reduced endothelium-dependent relaxation in OHF mesenteric arteries is due to impaired EDHF-mediated relaxation. This defect was not apparent in femoral arteries in which EDHF has a less prominent role.

A novel capsaicin derivative VOA induced relaxation in rat mesenteric and aortic arteries: involvement of CGRP, NO, cGMP, and endothelium-dependent activities

The vasorelaxant effects of N-[4-O-[2-methoxy, phenoxyethylaminobutyl]-3-methoxy benzyl]-nonamide (VOA), a novel capsaicin derivative, and associated releasing activities of nitric oxide (NO) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were investigated in this study. Systemic administration of VOA decreased blood pressure and heart rate in a dose-dependent manner in both normotensive as well as spontaneously hypertensive rats. Nw-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), glibenclamide, and capsazepine inhibited VOA-induced hypotension. In phenylephrine-precontracted rat aortic rings and mesenteric arteries with intact endothelium, VOA caused a concentration-dependent relaxation. This relaxation was reduced after endothelium was removed or pretreated with L-NAME, methylene blue, 1 H-[1,2,4]oxidazolol [4,3-a] quinoxalin-1-one, tetraethylammonium, glibenclamide, CGRP (8-37), or capsazepine, respectively. In endothelially denuded vessel rings, tetraethylammonium, glibenclamide, CGRP (8-37), and capsazepine also reduced VOA-induced relaxation. In high potassium (80 mmol/L)-precontracted rat aortic rings with intact endothelium, VOA failed to induce relaxation. VOA induced a concentration-dependent increase of CGRP-like enzyme immunoreactivity, which was also significantly inhibited by capsazepine. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells, VOA increased NO release and guanosine-3', 5'-cyclic monophosphate level, which were significantly inhibited by L-NAME. The Western blot analysis on human umbilical vein endothelial cells indicated that VOA increased the expression of endothelium nitric oxide synthase. In conclusion, VOA might exert its relaxation effects in rat vascular smooth muscle through the CGRP/KATP channel and the NO/ cGMP pathway.

Preserved vascular reactivity of rat renal arteries after cold storage

In cultured renal tubular cells hypothermia results in cell damage caused by iron-dependent formation of reactive oxygen species. It is unknown whether cold preservation affects function of renal vessels. Rat renal arcuate arteries were stored in a physiological salt solution at 4 degrees C for 24h and compared to control arteries (not stored). To some of the stored arteries the iron chelator 2,2'-dipyridyl was added. Endothelium-independent vasoconstriction was assessed by cumulative concentration-response curves for potassium and phenylephrine in a small vessel myograph. Endothelium-independent vasodilation was assessed with sodium nitroprusside and endothelium-dependent vasodilation with histamine. Cold storage for 24h did not affect vascular reactivity of renal small arteries and no influence of the iron chelator was seen. Since 24h of cold storage considerable damages renal tubular cells both in vitro and after kidney transplantation, these results suggest that renal arteries are less sensitive to cold-induced damage than tubular cells.

Endothelium-dependent relaxation and endothelial hyperpolarization by P2Y receptor agonists in rat-isolated mesenteric artery

(1) Vasorelaxation and hyperpolarization of endothelial cells by adenosine 5'-[beta-thio]diphosphate (ADPbetaS) and adenosine 5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate (ATPgammaS) were studied in rat-isolated mesenteric artery. Effects from stimulation of P2X receptors were avoided by desensitization with alpha,beta-methylene adenosine triphosphate. (2) ADPbetaS caused concentration- and endothelium-dependent relaxations of methoxamine-precontracted small (third generation) and main mesenteric artery. These were inhibited by N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) or a combination of apamin plus charybdotoxin (inhibitors of Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels); L-NAME, apamin and charybdotoxin applied together abolished the response. (3) ATPgammaS induced limited relaxation (35% of methoxamine-induced tone at 10 micro M) of small mesenteric artery, which was sensitive to L-NAME or endothelium denudation. However, it almost completely relaxed the main mesenteric artery over an extended concentration range (>6 orders of magnitude) in an endothelium-dependent manner. This relaxation was inhibited by either L-NAME or a combination of apamin with charybdotoxin, and abolished by a combination of all the three inhibitors. (4) The P2Y(1) receptor antagonist MRS 2179 (2'-deoxy-N(6)-methyladenosine 3',5'-bisphosphate; 0.3-3 micro M) caused parallel rightward shifts of the concentration/relaxation curve to ADPbetaS (pA(2)=7.1). However, MRS 2179 did not inhibit, but potentiated, relaxant responses to ATPgammaS. MRS 2179 did not affect the contractile responses ATPgammaS in small mesenteric artery; ATPgammaS did not contract the main mesenteric artery. (5) ADPbetaS hyperpolarized the endothelium of the main mesenteric artery in a concentration-dependent manner. This was unaffected by L-NAME but antagonized by MRS 2179. ATPgammaS also hyperpolarized the mesenteric artery endothelium in a concentration-dependent manner but, when ATPgammaS was applied at 10 micro M, its effect was potentiated by MRS 2179 (3 micro M). (6) It is concluded that both relaxation and hyperpolarization to ADPbetaS are mediated by P2Y(1) receptors and that the endothelial hyperpolarization is related to the L-NAME-resistant relaxation. Relaxation to the P2Y(2) agonist ATPgammaS shows regional variation along the mesenteric vasculature. The mechanisms for potentiation of relaxation and hyperpolarization by ATPgammaS are unknown, but may indicate interactions between P2Y receptor subtypes.

Endotoxin impairs endothelium-dependent vasodilation more in the coronary and renal arteries than in other arteries of the rat

Endotoxemia may result in endothelial dysfunction, and some vascular beds may be affected more than others. To test this hypothesis, we studied, in vitro, the reactivity of isolated rat coronary, renal, superior mesenteric, and hepatic arteries exposed to endotoxin (E. coli, 50 microg. mL(-1)) or saline for 2 h at 37 degrees C. Vascular smooth muscle function was tested using 125 mM KCl, the vasoconstrictors norepinephrine (NE), and the thromboxane analog U46619 (coronary artery). Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation was tested with acetylcholine (ACh) in preconstricted vessels. Although differing between vessel types, the smooth muscle contractile responses were not affected by endotoxin, either in the presence or absence of L-arginine. Endotoxin impaired the response to ACh in rat coronary arteries (92.7 +/- 4.6% vasodilation in control and 41.3 +/- 11.6% in endotoxin-exposed segments) and in renal arteries (66.7 +/- 5.2% vasodilation in control and 43.2 +/- 4.9% in endotoxin-exposed segments), so that there was a mean 55% decrease vs controls in coronary and a mean 35% decrease in renal arteries. Endotoxin did not affect superior mesenteric and hepatic arteries. Brief endotoxin exposure of isolated rat arteries may thus inactivate endothelial NO synthase, independent of iNOS. The increase in heterogeneity among endothelium-dependent vasodilation after endotoxin may help to explain early blood flow maldistribution in endotoxin shock.

Mechanisms underlying the programming of small artery dysfunction: review of the model using low protein diet in pregnancy in the rat

Human and animal studies have shown that unbalanced maternal nutrition is associated with the development of cardiovascular and metabolic disease in adulthood. In the Southampton maternal low protein model (SMLP), protein deprivation (50%) throughout pregnancy in rats leads to elevated blood pressure in adult offspring. Impaired peripheral arterial function may contribute to the cardiovascular dysfunction observed in these offspring. This review discusses the impact of such a dietary insult on the vascular function of resistance arteries from pregnant rats (pF(o)), their offspring (F(1)), the pregnant offspring (pF(1)) and the second generation (F(2)). At each stage, disturbances in endothelium-dependent relaxation were observed, implicating changes in endothelial nitric oxide (NO)-guanylate cyclase (GC) signalling pathway in the vascular adaptations to pregnancy and the programmed effects on offspring.

Nonendothelial source of nitric oxide in arterioles but not in venules: alternative source revealed in vivo by diaminofluorescein microfluorography

This study aimed to examine topographic distribution of microvascular NO generation in vivo. To this end, nitrosonium ion (NO+)-sensitive diaminofluorescein diacetate was superfused continuously on the rat mesentery and the fluorescence was visualized in the microvessels through laser confocal microfluorography. Two major sites exhibited a time-dependent elevation of the fluorescence: microvascular endothelia and mast cells. As judged by the fluorescence sensitivity to local application of different inhibitors of NO synthase (NOS), NO availability in arteriolar endothelium and mast cells appeared to be maintained mainly by NOS1, whereas that in venular endothelium greatly depends on NOS3. In venules, the magnitude of inhibitory responses elicited by the inhibitors was positively correlated with the density of leukocyte adhesion. NOS inhibitors significantly reduced, but did not eliminate, the NO+-associated fluorescence in arterioles, capillaries, and venules, suggesting alternative sources of NO in circulation for these microvessels. Immunohistochemistry for NOS isozymes revealed that NOS1 occurred not only in nerve fibers innervated to arterioles but also abundantly in mast cells. Laser flow cytometry of peritoneal cells in vitro revealed abundant expression of NOS1 in mast cells. Interestingly, NOS3 occurred in endothelia of capillaries and venules but not in those of distal arterioles with comparable diameters. These results suggest that the arterioles receive NO from nonendothelial origins involving NOS1 present in nerve terminals and mast cells, whereas venules depend on the endothelial NOS as a major source. Furthermore, nonenzymatic sources of NO from circulating reservoirs constitute a notable fraction throughout different classes of microvessels. The full text of this article is available at http://www.circresaha.org.

Effects of diabetes and evening primrose oil treatment on responses of aorta, corpus cavernosum and mesenteric vasculature in rats

Diabetes causes endothelial dysfunction, with deleterious effects on nitric oxide (NO) mediated vasodilatation. However, in many vessels other local vasodilators such as endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF), prostacyclin, epoxides or endocannabinoids are also important. Several of these factors may be derived from omega-6 essential fatty acids via arachidonate metabolism. Diabetes inhibits this pathway, a defect that may be bypassed by diets enriched with omega-6 gamma-linolenic acid-containing oils such as evening primrose oil (EPO). The aim was to examine the effects of preventive EPO treatment on endothelium-dependent and neurally mediated vasorelaxation. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin in rats; duration was 8 weeks. Vascular responses were examined in vitro on thoracic aorta, corpus cavernosum and perfused mesenteric bed preparations. Diabetes caused 25% and 35% deficits, respectively, in aorta and corpus cavernosum NO-mediated endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine that were largely unaffected by EPO treatment. Moreover, a 44% reduction in maximum corpus cavernosum vasorelaxation to nitrergic nerve stimulation was not prevented by EPO. However, for the mesenteric vascular bed, a 29% diminution of responses to acetylcholine, mediated by both NO and EDHF, was 84% attenuated by EPO treatment. When the EDHF component was isolated during NO synthase inhibition, a 76% diabetic deficit was noted. This was completely prevented by EPO treatment, which also caused supernormal EDHF responses in nondiabetic rats. EPO treatment prevented the development of deficits in endothelium-dependent relaxation in diabetic rats. Effects were particularly marked on the resistance vessel EDHF system, which may have potential therapeutic relevance for diabetic microvascular complications.

Role for endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor in vascular tone in rat mesenteric and hindlimb circulations in vivo

The role of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) in the regulation of blood flow in vivo was examined in the mesenteric and hindlimb circulations of anaesthetized rats. Basal mesenteric conductance decreased from 57 +/- 5 to 20 +/- 6 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) when nitric oxide (NO) production was inhibited, and combined blockade of intermediate- and small-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (K(Ca)) channels with charybdotoxin (ChTx) and apamin had no further effect. Basal hindlimb conductance was reduced from 39 +/- 3 to 22 +/- 2 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) by NO synthesis inhibition, with no effect of the K(Ca) channel blockers. Endothelial stimulation with acetylcholine (ACh) infusion directly into the mesenteric bed increased conductance by 20 +/- 2 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1). Blockade of NO synthesis decreased this conductance to 15 +/- 1 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1), leaving the response attributable to EDHF. This was reduced to 2 +/- 1 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) by ChTx plus apamin but not by iberiotoxin, which selectively blocks large-conductance K(Ca) channels. Similar results were obtained when bradykinin (BK) was used to stimulate the endothelium. Nitroprusside, which directly relaxes smooth muscle, evoked an increase in conductance that was resistant to all blockers tested. ACh-induced increases in hindlimb conductance were reduced from 19 +/- 1 to 12 +/- 1 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) by NO synthesis inhibition and further reduced to 2 +/- 2 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) by ChTx plus apamin. In contrast to NO, ChTx- and apamin-sensitive EDHF appears to contribute little to basal conductance in rat mesenteric and hindlimb beds. However, EDHF accounts for a significant component of the conductance increase during endothelial stimulation by ACh and BK. In these beds, intermediate- and small-conductance K(Ca) channels underpin EDHF-mediated vasodilatation.

Involvement of myoendothelial gap junctions in the actions of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor

The nature of the vasodilator endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) is controversial, putatively involving diffusible factors and/or electrotonic spread of hyperpolarization generated in the endothelium via myoendothelial gap junctions (MEGJs). In this study, we investigated the relationship between the existence of MEGJs, endothelial cell (EC) hyperpolarization, and EDHF-attributed smooth muscle cell (SMC) hyperpolarization in two different arteries: the rat mesenteric artery, where EDHF-mediated vasodilation is prominent, and the femoral artery, where there is no EDHF-dependent relaxation. In the rat mesenteric artery, stimulation of the endothelium with acetylcholine (ACh) evoked hyperpolarization of both ECs and SMCs, and characteristic pentalaminar MEGJs were found connecting the two cell layers. In contrast, in the femoral artery, ACh evoked hyperpolarization in only ECs but not in SMCs, and no MEGJs were present. Selective hyperpolarization of ECs or SMCs evoked hyperpolarization in the other cell type in the mesenteric artery but not in the femoral artery. Disruption of gap junctional coupling using the peptide Gap 27 markedly reduced the ACh-induced hyperpolarization in SMCs, but not in ECs, of the mesenteric artery. These results show that transfer of EC hyperpolarization or of a small molecule to SMCs through MEGJs is essential and sufficient to explain EDHF.

Propionate-induced relaxation in rat mesenteric arteries: a role for endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor

Short chain fatty acids, including propionate, are generated in the caecum and large intestine, and when absorbed may elicit localised increases in intestinal blood flow. We sought to assess the mechanism by which propionate caused vasorelaxation. Propionate-mediated relaxation of noradrenaline-preconstricted rat mesenteric small arteries (RMSAs, i.d. 200-300 microm) was studied using small vessel myography. Propionate (1-30 mM) produced a concentration-dependent relaxation. Relaxation induced by 10 mM propionate (the approximate EC50) was almost abolished by endothelial denudation, although a marked relaxation to a very high concentration of propionate (50 mM) persisted in the absence of the endothelium. In endothelium-intact RMSAs, relaxation to 10 mM propionate was almost abolished by elevating [K+]o to 25 mM, but was unaffected by 100 microM N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (68 +/- 4 vs. 66 +/- 3% in controls, n = 35), or by 1 microM indomethacin (60 +/- 4 vs. 61 +/- 7 % in controls, n = 15). In the presence of L-NAME, relaxation to 10 mM propionate was significantly and markedly (i.e. > 50 %) inhibited by 50 microM Ba2+ and by the combination of 100 nM charybdotoxin and 100 nM apamin. A similar effect on propionate-mediated relaxation was also exerted by 100 microM ouabain, and by the combination of 50 microM barium with ouabain. Relaxation was also significantly and markedly inhibited by pre-treatment of RMSAs with 100 nM thapsigargin or 10 microM cyclopiazonic acid (CPA). The results demonstrate that 10 mM propionate relaxes RMSAs via endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor (EDHF). The observation that relaxation by propionate is inhibited by thapsigargin and CPA suggests that this action of propionate involves the release of endothelial cell Ca2+ stores.

Comparison of effects of diabetes mellitus on an EDHF-dependent and an EDHF-independent artery

The hypothesis tested in this study is that diabetes has a different impact on an artery in which endothelium-dependent responses derive from both nitric oxide (NO) and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) compared with responses in which NO predominates and EDHF is absent. The streptozotocin-treated rat model of diabetes was used, and the arteries were mounted on a wire myograph. In mesenteric arteries depolarized and constricted with phenylephrine, acetylcholine evoked hyperpolarization (31 +/- 2 mV) and complete relaxation; these responses were attributed to EDHF and NO. In femoral arteries, acetylcholine evoked a small, NO-mediated hyperpolarization (5 +/- 1 mV) and incomplete relaxation. Bradykinin evoked NO-dependent responses in mesenteric arteries. Whereas diabetes significantly impaired the EDHF-dependent hyperpolarization and relaxation in mesenteric arteries, NO-dependent responses in femoral and mesenteric arteries were preserved. 1-Ethyl-2-benzimidazolinone evoked hyperpolarization and relaxation in mesenteric arteries, and this was impaired in diabetes. In conclusion, NO-dependent responses are preserved in diabetes, whereas endothelial responses-dependent upon EDHF appear to be impaired. The putative channels responsible for mediating the EDHF response may be altered in diabetes.

Hypertension and impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation of arteries from spontaneously hypertensive and L-NAME-treated Wistar rats

Effects of chronic treatment of normotensive Wistar rats with N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) on blood pressure and on endothelium-dependent relaxation of the aorta, carotid and iliac arteries were studied. The endothelium-dependent relaxation was compared in arteries from normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) and genetically hypertensive rats (stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats, SHRSP). Chronic treatment of normotensive Wistar rats with L-NAME caused an elevation of blood pressure. The elevated blood pressure at 15 weeks of age was significantly higher in these animals than that of untreated Wistar rats, but lower than that of SHRSP. Endothelium-dependent relaxation of the arteries induced by acetylcholine (ACh) was almost abolished by chronic treatment with L-NAME. The remaining small relaxation in arteries from L-NAME-treated rats was completely inhibited by application of L-NAME (10(-4) M). In such preparations, higher concentrations of ACh induced a contraction, which was abolished by removal of the endothelium or by an application of indomethacin (10(-5) M). Endothelium-independent relaxation induced by sodium nitroprusside was similar between preparations from untreated and L-NAME-treated Wistar rats. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was significantly impaired in preparations from SHRSP, when compared with that in those from WKY. However, the impairment was less prominent in preparations from SHRSP than in those from L-NAME-treated rats. These results suggest that the impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation in the arteries from L-NAME-treated rats is not due to the elevated blood pressure resulting from the chronic treatment, and that impairment of NO synthesis by the endothelium does not play a major role in the initiation of hypertension in SHRSP.

Transmural field stimulation-induced relaxation in the rat common hepatic artery

Hepatic arteries are reportedly innervated by vasoconstrictor and vasodilator nerves. Experiments were carried out to investigate the possible involvement of calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) and nitric oxide as neurotransmitters during the relaxation of the rat common hepatic artery produced by transmural electrical field stimulation (ES). Common hepatic arteries were excised under ether-anesthesia from 6 weeks-old female rats, and isometric tensions recorded from endothelium-damaged ring preparations. In the presence of atropine and guanethidine, ES relaxed arteries which had been previously contracted with vasopressin. The relaxation response to ES was attenuated by either tetrodotoxin or capsaicin-pretreatment. CGRP induced a concentration-dependent relaxation, which was inhibited by the CGRP antagonist CGRP(8-37). The ES-induced relaxation was attenuated either slightly by the nitric oxide synthesis inhibitor L-nitroarginine (L-NNA) or markedly by CGRP(8-37). The relaxation response was nearly abolished in the presence of both CGRP(8-37) and L-NNA. These results may indicate that the nerve stimulation-induced vasodilatation of the rat common hepatic artery is mediated mainly by CGRP and partly by nitric oxide.

Mechanisms of nitric oxide-independent relaxations induced by carbachol and acetylcholine in rat isolated renal arteries

1. In rat isolated renal artery segments contracted with 0.1 microM phenylephrine and in the presence of the NO synthase inhibitor N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), carbachol and acetylcholine produced endothelium-dependent relaxations. The mechanisms underlying these relaxations were studied. 2. These relaxations were not affected by ODQ (1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3, -a]quinoxalin-1-one) or indomethacin. In arteries contracted with 20 - 30 mM K(+), L-NAME-resistant relaxations induced by carbachol and acetylcholine were virtually absent. 3. The Na(+)-K(+) ATPase inhibitor ouabain reduced these relaxations in a concentration-dependent manner. 4. In K(+)-free media, addition of K(+) (5 mM) produced 90. 5+/-3.9% (n=3) relaxation of phenylephrine-induced tone. This relaxation was endothelium-independent and ouabain-sensitive. 5. Tetraethylammonium (TEA), charybdotoxin (ChTX) and iberiotoxin (IbTX) reduced the sensitivity of carbachol-induced relaxations, but did not change the maximal response. These relaxations were not altered by 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), glibenclamide or apamin. Acetylcholine (1 microM)-induced relaxation was reduced by ChTX, but not by TEA or IbTX. 6. The cytochrome P450 inhibitor miconazole, but not 17-octadecynoic acid, reduced the sensitivity of carbachol-induced relaxations, without changing the maximal response. 7. In conclusion, in rat isolated renal arteries, acetylcholine and carbachol produced a non-NO/non-PGI(2) relaxation which is mediated by an endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). This factor does not appear to be a cytochrome P450 metabolite. The inhibition by ouabain of these relaxations suggests the possible involvement of Na(+)-K(+) ATPase activation in EDHF responses, although other mechanisms cannot be totally ruled out.

EDHF, NO and a prostanoid: hyperpolarization-dependent and -independent relaxation in guinea-pig arteries

The contribution of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF), nitric oxide (NO) and a prostanoid (PG) to endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization and relaxation were assessed in coronary and mammary arteries of guinea-pigs by integration of the responses evoked during discrete applications of acetylcholine (ACh). The results of this integration approach were compared with those using traditional peak analysis methods. N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 100 microM) and indomethacin (1 microM), alone or in combination, were without effect on peak hyperpolarizations or relaxations while they markedly reduced the integrated responses in both arteries. Integrated responses attributed to NO and PG were larger than those attributed to EDHF in the coronary artery (at 2 microM ACh, hyperpolarization (mV s): NO, 4200+/-91; PG, 5046+/-157; EDHF, 1532+/-94; relaxation (mN s mm(-1)): NO, 2488+/-122; PG, 2234+/-96; EDHF, 802+/-54). Integrated responses attributed to NO, PG and EDHF were similar in the mammary artery (at 2 microM ACh, hyperpolarization: NO, 347+/-69; PG, 217+/-49; EDHF, 310+/-63; relaxation: NO, 462+/-94; PG, 456+/-144; EDHF, 458+/-40). Gilbenclamide (1 microM) all but abolished the hyperpolarization attributable to NO and PG but not EDHF in both arteries allowing assessment of the role of the hyperpolarization in relaxation. Gilbenclamide was without effect on the integrated relaxation due to NO but significantly reduced the relaxation associated with PG in the two arteries. In conclusion, integration of the responses enabled a more complete assessment of the contribution of EDHF, NO and PG to endothelium-dependent responses, which were strikingly different in the two arteries. There is commonality in the role of hyperpolarization in relaxation in both arteries: EDHF-dependent relaxation is strongly dependent on hyperpolarization; hyperpolarization plays an important role in PG relaxation, whereas it has a small facilitatory role in NO-dependent relaxation.

Involvement of sensory nerves in vasodilator responses to acetylcholine and potassium ions in rat hepatic artery

In the presence of ouabain (1 mM), acetylcholine and KCl (5 mM) evoked endothelium-independent relaxations in rat hepatic arteries. Treatment with capsaicin (10 microM), scopolamine (1 microM) or CGRP(8 - 37) (3 microM) prevented these relaxations. Acetylcholine-induced relaxations in intact arterial segments in the presence of indomethacin (10 microM) and N(G)-nitro-L-arginine (0.3 mM) were only partially inhibited by ouabain plus BaCl(2) (30 microM). However, ouabain plus BaCl(2) almost abolished such relaxations in capsaicin-pre-treated preparations. In arteries without endothelium, the neurosecretagogue alpha-latrotoxin (1 nM) induced complete relaxations, which were abolished by CGRP(8 - 37) or pre-treatment with capsaicin. alpha-Latrotoxin also induced a smooth muscle hyperpolarization (12+/-2 mV), which was abolished by CGRP(8 - 37). The ability of ouabain to disclose a CGRP-mediated neurogenic relaxation must be considered when this agent is used as a pharmacological tool. The results further suggest that CGRP is a nerve-derived hyperpolarizing factor in the rat hepatic artery.

Effects of aldose reductase inhibition on responses of the corpus cavernosum and mesenteric vascular bed of diabetic rats

We examined the effects of 2 months of streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus in rats on relaxation and contraction of corpus cavernosum and the mesenteric vascular bed in vitro. A further diabetic group was treated from diabetes induction with 10 mg/kg/day of the aldose reductase inhibitor, WAY121509. For corpus cavernosum, maximal acetylcholine-induced relaxation was 35.5% reduced (p < 0.001) by diabetes, and this deficit was completely prevented by WAY121509 treatment. Neither diabetes nor treatment affected contractile responses to field stimulation of noradrenergic nerves; however, nonadrenergic noncholinergic nerve relaxation responses were 32.9% decreased by diabetes and WAY 121509 attenuated this by 84% (p < 0.001). For the mesenteric vascular bed, diabetes depressed maximal endothelium-dependent vasodilation to acetylcholine by 25.2% (p < 0.001), and this was partially (50.6%; p < 0.01) prevented by WAY121509. Nitric oxide synthase blockade revealed endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor-mediated vasodilation to acetylcholine that was 73.5% (p < 0.001) depressed by diabetes; WAY121509 provided partial (43.4%; p < 0.001) protection. Neither diabetes nor treatment affected endothelium-independent vasorelaxation to the nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside, in corpus cavernosum or mesenteric vessels. Thus the data show protective effects of WAY121509 on nitric oxide-mediated cavernosal vasorelaxation responses and on mesenteric endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor responses. Together these findings could account for the beneficial effects of aldose reductase inhibition on diabetic complications in experimental models.

Receptors mediating CGRP-induced relaxation in the rat isolated thoracic aorta and porcine isolated coronary artery differentiated by h(alpha) CGRP(8-37)

1 Receptors mediating CGRP-induced vasorelaxation were investigated in rat thoracic aorta and porcine left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery and anterior interventricular artery (AIA), using CGRP agonists, homologues and the antagonist h(alpha) CGRP(8-37). 2 In the endothelium-intact rat aorta, h(alpha) CGRP, h(beta) CGRP, rat beta CGRP and human adrenomedullin caused relaxation with similar potencies. Compared with h(alpha) CGRP, rat amylin was about 25 fold less potent, while [Cys(ACM2,7)] h(alpha) CGRP and salmon calcitonin were at least 1000 fold weaker. 3 H(alpha) CGRP(8-37) (up to 10(-5) M) did not antagonize responses to h(alpha) CGRP, h(beta) CGRP or rat beta CGRP (apparent pKB <5). Peptidase inhibitors did not increase either the effect of h(alpha) CGRP or [Cys(ACM,2,7)] h(alpha) CGRP, while h(alpha) CGRP(8-37) remained inactive. Endothelium-dependent relaxation produced by h(alpha) CGRP was accompanied by increases in cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP, that were not inhibited by h(alpha) CGRP(8-37) (10(-5) M). 4 In porcine LAD and AIA, h(alpha) CGRP produced relaxation in an endothelium-independent manner. H(alpha) CGRP(8-37) competitively antagonized h(alpha) CGRP responses (pA2 6.3 and 6.7 (Schild slope 0.9+/-0.1, each), in LAD and AIA, respectively). In LAD artery, h(alpha) CGRP-induced relaxation was accompanied by increases in cyclic AMP that were inhibited by h(alpha) CGRP(8-37) (10(-7)-10(5 )). 5 In conclusion, the antagonist affinity for h(alpha) CGRP(8-37) in porcine coronary artery is consistent with a CGRP1 receptor, while the lack of h(alpha) CGRP(8-37) antagonism in rat aorta could suggest either a CGRP receptor different from CGRP1 and CGRP2 type, or a non-CGRP receptor.

Histamine release and contrast media-induced renal vasoconstriction

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

The authors' purpose was to investigate the role of histamine release causing renal vasoconstriction induced by application of contrast media, an important element in contrast medium-induced nephrotoxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Isometric contractions in rabbit segmental renal arteries stimulated with KCl and increasing concentrations of the ionic contrast medium diatrizoate and the nonionic agents iomeprol and iodixanol were studied both with and without increasing concentrations of the histamine H1 and H2 blockers diphenhydramine and cimetidine. Histamine concentrations after contrast medium application were determined.

RESULTS

Contrast-induced, dose-dependent, reversible renal artery contractions of 27%, 4.5%, and 5% of the control KCl contraction were found for diatrizoate, iodixanol, and iomeprol respectively. Those induced by the ionic contrast medium were statistically significantly higher (P < .01). Contractions were partially inhibited by diphenhydramine (49%) but not by cimetidine. Significant elevation of histamine concentrations (P < .05) was detected only after stimulation with diatrizoate but not with nonionic agents.

CONCLUSION

Ionic contrast medium induces histamine release leading to renal vasoconstriction, which can be partly blocked by H1 blockers. Histamine has no effect on renal vasospasm induced by nonionic contrast media.

Major vasodilator role for nitric oxide in the gastrointestinal circulation of the mid-gestation fetal lamb

As nitric oxide (NO) may be a particularly important vasodilator in early life, we investigated its role in the regulation of the gastrointestinal (GI) circulation at mid-gestation. Cardiac output and GI blood flow were measured by the radioactive microsphere technique in eight chronically instrumented and unanesthetized mid-gestation fetal sheep. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate, blood flow, oxygen delivery, and vascular resistance were determined before and after infusion of the specific NO synthase inhibitor, Nomega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA) at doses of 10 and 25 mg/kg. In response to L-NNA infusion, MAP increased (p < 0.01) and combined ventricular output decreased (p < 0.001). GI blood flow and oxygen delivery decreased and vascular resistance increased in the stomach and all segments of the small and large intestine (all p < 0.001). The greatest reduction in blood flow was in the small intestine (p < 0.01) and the basal differential pattern of small intestinal blood flow exceeding large intestinal flow was completely abolished. These changes were much greater than those previously described in late-gestation fetuses. Our results suggest that, at mid-gestation, NO plays a major role in the regulation of blood flow and vascular tone across all segments of the fetal GI tract, with its effects being more pronounced than later in development.

Endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor--a critical appraisal

Endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor is defined as that substance which produces vascular smooth muscle hyperpolarization which cannot be explained by nitric oxide or by a cyclo-oxygenase product such as prostacyclin. The possibility that the factor is an epoxyeicosatrienoic acid or a cannabinoid agonist such as anandamide continues to be investigated, but definitive evidence in favour of either is lacking. The sensitivity of EDHF-mediated responses to charybdotoxin, to apamin or to mixtures of these two toxins may indicate the opening of more than one smooth muscle K-channel, but the possibility that these are located on the vascular endothelium is discussed.

Interactions between endothelium-derived relaxing factors in the rat hepatic artery: focus on regulation of EDHF

1. In rat isolated hepatic arteries contracted with phenylephrine, acetylcholine and the calcium ionophore A23187 each elicit endothelium-dependent relaxations, which involve both nitric oxide (NO) and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). However, the contribution of prostanoids to these responses, and the potential interaction between EDHF and other endothelium-derived relaxing factors have not been examined. 2. In the presence of the NO synthase inhibitor N(G)-nitro-L-arginine (L-NOARG, 0.3 mM) and a mixture of charybdotoxin (0.3 microM) and apamin (0.3 microM), inhibitors of the target potassium (K) channel(s) for EDHF, acetylcholine and A23187 each induced a concentration-dependent and almost complete relaxation, which was abolished in the additional presence of indomethacin (10 microM). Thus, in addition to EDHF and NO, a relaxing factor(s) generated by cyclo-oxygenase (COX) contributes to endothelium-dependent relaxation in the rat hepatic artery. 3. The resting membrane potentials of endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded vascular segments were -57 mV and -52 mV, respectively (P>0.05). In intact arteries, the resting membrane potential was not affected by L-NOARG plus indomethacin, but reduced to -47 mV in the presence of charybdotoxin plus apamin. Acetylcholine and A23187 (10 microM each) elicited a hyperpolarization of 13 mV and 15 mV, respectively. The hyperpolarization induced by these agents was not affected by L-NOARG plus indomethacin (12 mV and 14 mV, respectively), but reduced in the presence of charybdotoxin plus apamin (7 mV and 10 mV, respectively), and abolished in the combined presence of charybdotoxin, apamin and indomethacin. 4. The NO donor 3-morpholino-sydnonimine (SIN-1) induced a concentration-dependent relaxation, which was unaffected by charybdotoxin plus apamin, but abolished by the selective soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxaline-1-one (ODQ, 10 microM). SIN-1 (10 microM) did not alter the resting membrane potential in endothelium-denuded vascular segments. 5. The COX-dependent relaxation induced by acetylcholine was abolished following exposure to 30 mM KCl, but unaffected by glibenclamide (10 microM). The prostacyclin analogue iloprost induced a concentration-dependent relaxation, which was also abolished in 30 mM KCl and unaffected by the combined treatment with glibenclamide, charybdotoxin and apamin. Iloprost (10 microM) induced a glibenclamide-resistant hyperpolarization (8 mV with and 9 mV without glibenclamide) in endothelium-denuded vascular segments. 6. Exposure to SIN-1 or iloprost did not affect the EDHF-mediated relaxation induced by acetylcholine (i.e. in the presence of L-NOARG and indomethacin). Replacement of L-NOARG with the NO scavenger oxyhaemoglobin (10 microM) or the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ (10 microM) or methylene blue (10 microM), which all significantly inhibited responses to endothelium-derived NO, did not affect the acetylcholine-induced relaxation in the presence of indomethacin, indicating that endogenous NO also does not suppress EDHF-mediated responses. 7. These results show that, in addition to EDHF and NO, an endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor(s) generated by COX contributes significantly to endothelium-dependent relaxation in the rat heptic artery. Neither this factor nor NO seems to regulate EDHF-mediated responses. Thus, EDHF does not serve simply as a 'back-up' system for NO and prostacyclin in this artery. However, whether EDHF modulates the NO and COX pathways remains to be determined.

Vascular wall reactivity in conductance and resistance arteries: differential effects of insulin resistance

Insulin resistance is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease that is probably related to abnormalities of vascular wall function. The JCR:LA-cp rat is a unique animal model of human vascular disease that exhibits a profound insulin resistance, vasculopathy, and cardiovascular disease, and allows study of the relationships between insulin resistance and vascular function. Conductance and resistance arteries serve different functions, thus vascular disease may affect these types of artery differently. Concentration-response curves to norepinephrine, phenylephrine, and acetylcholine were studied in conductance vessels (aortic rings) and resistance vessels (mesenteric arteries) from 12-week-old male obese and lean JCR:LA-cp rats. The aortic rings and mesenteric arteries from obese rats showed increased maximal response to phenylephrine compared with those from lean rats, whereas only the mesenteric arteries from obese rats showed increased maximal response to norepinephrine. In aortic rings, relaxation to acetylcholine was similar for both genotypes, but the mesenteric arteries of obese rats showed impaired relaxation to acetylcholine. We conclude that the sensitivity to vasoconstriction is enhanced in aortic rings and mesenteric arteries of obese male JCR:LA-cp rats, but endothelial function is impaired only in the mesenteric resistance arteries of these animals. Hence functional aberrations in the obese, insulin-resistant state are more pronounced in mesenteric resistance arteries than in a major conductance artery.

Role of nitric oxide in the physiopathology of pain

Many painful disorders, including joint dysfunctions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), are associated with hyperthermia of the overlying skin. The same is true of certain intractable chronic pain conditions, such as chronic orofacial pain, which may be associated with TMD. We suggest that this skin hyperthermia, caused by regional vasodilation, is induced by extravascular nitric oxide (NO). Extravascular NO can be produced in the affected joint by osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and macrophages, by mechanical stimulation of endothelial cells, or by stimulated neurons. In view of a strong correlation between pain and skin hyperthermia in these disorders, and the evidence that NO enhances the sensitivity of peripheral nociceptors, we also suggest that at least this kind of pain is associated with excessive local level of NO. This hypothesis can be verified by dynamic area telethermometry, assessing the effect of NO on the sympathetic nervous function. This mechanism, which is in line with the general role of NO as a mediator between different organ systems, also may be relevant to any pain associated with enhanced immune response. Clinical implications of the proposed mechanism are discussed.