Low extracellular Ca(2+) activates a transient Cl(-) current in chicken ovarian granulosa cells

Renal sympathetic denervation improves pressure-natriuresis relationship in cardiorenal syndrome: insight from studies with Ren-2 transgenic hypertensive rats with volume overload induced using aorto-caval fistula

The aim was to evaluate the effects of renal denervation (RDN) on autoregulation of renal hemodynamics and the pressure-natriuresis relationship in Ren-2 transgenic rats (TGR) with aorto-caval fistula (ACF)-induced heart failure (HF). RDN was performed one week after creation of ACF or sham-operation. Animals were prepared for evaluation of autoregulatory capacity of renal blood flow (RBF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and of the pressure-natriuresis characteristics after stepwise changes in renal arterial pressure (RAP) induced by aortic clamping. Their basal values of blood pressure and renal function were significantly lower than with innervated sham-operated TGR (p < 0.05 in all cases): mean arterial pressure (MAP) (115 ± 2 vs. 160 ± 3 mmHg), RBF (6.91 ± 0.33 vs. 10.87 ± 0.38 ml.min-1.g-1), urine flow (UF) (11.3 ± 1.79 vs. 43.17 ± 3.24 µl.min-1.g-1) and absolute sodium excretion (UNaV) (1.08 ± 0.27 vs, 6.38 ± 0.76 µmol.min-1.g-1). After denervation ACF TGR showed improved autoregulation of RBF: at lowest RAP level (80 mmHg) the value was higher than in innervated ACF TGR (6.92 ± 0.26 vs. 4.54 ± 0.22 ml.min-1.g-1, p < 0.05). Also, the pressure-natriuresis relationship was markedly improved after RDN: at the RAP of 80 mmHg UF equaled 4.31 ± 0.99 vs. 0.26 ± 0.09 µl.min-1.g-1 recorded in innervated ACF TGR, UNaV was 0.31 ± 0.05 vs. 0.04 ± 0.01 µmol min-1.g-1 (p < 0.05 in all cases). In conclusion, in our model of hypertensive rat with ACF-induced HF, RDN improved autoregulatory capacity of RBF and the pressure-natriuresis relationship when measured at the stage of HF decompensation.

Impaired renal autoregulation and pressure-natriuresis: any role in the development of heart failure in normotensive and angiotensin II-dependent hypertensive rats?

The aim of the present study was to assess the autoregulatory capacity of renal blood flow (RBF) and of the pressure-natriuresis characteristics in the early phase of heart failure (HF) in rats, normotensive and with angiotensin II (ANG II)-dependent hypertension. Ren-2 transgenic rats (TGR) were employed as a model of ANG II-dependent hypertension. HF was induced by creating the aorto-caval fistula (ACF). One week after ACF creation or sham-operation, the animals were prepared for studies evaluating in vivo RBF autoregulatory capacity and the pressure-natriuresis characteristics after stepwise changes in renal arterial pressure (RAP) induced by aortic clamping. In ACF TGR the basal mean arterial pressure, RBF, urine flow (UF), and absolute sodium excretion (UNaV) were all significantly lower tha n in sham-operated TGR. In the latter, reductions in renal arterial pressure (RAP) significantly decreased RBF whereas in ACF TGR they did not change. Stepwise reductions in RAP resulted in marked decreases in UF and UNaV in sham-operated as well as in ACF TGR, however, these decreases were significantly greater in the former. Our data show that compared with sham-operated TGR, ACF TGR displayed well-maintained RBF autoregulatory capacity and improved slope of the pressure-natriuresis relationship. Thus, even though in the very early HF stage renal dysfunction was demonstrable, in the HF model of ANG II-dependent hypertensive rat such dysfunction and the subsequent HF decompensation cannot be simply ascribed to impaired renal autoregulation and pressure-natriuresis relationship.

Anoctamin 1 calcium-activated chloride channel downregulates estrogen production in mouse ovarian granulosa cells

Calcium-dependent chloride conductances have been described in chicken and human granulosa cells (GCs) and may be involved in steroidogenesis. However, the molecular identities of corresponding chloride channels remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to explore the expression and function of the Anoctamin 1 (ANO1) calcium-activated chloride channel (CaCC) in mouse ovary. ANO1 mRNA and protein expression was identified in mouse ovary GCs by RT-PCR, immunoblot, and immunostaining. Patch-clamp analysis on freshly isolated GCs identified an outwardly rectifying Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) current that was completely blocked by a selective ANO1 inhibitor T16Ainh-A01. Knockdown of ANO1 mRNA or incubation with a selective inhibitor T16Ainh-A01 enhanced estradiol production, whereas a selective ANO1 activator Eact significantly inhibited estradiol production in primary cultured GCs. The ANO1 expression or activation increases the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and decreases aromatase expression. The ANO1 expression level is remarkably higher at the proestrous and estrous stages in the estrous cycle. In vivo study indicated a profound induction of ANO1 expression in ovarian GCs by pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) that can be further augmented by hCG treatment, suggesting that both FSH and LH may upregulate ANO1 expression at the proestrous and estrous stages. ANO1 expression was remarkably reduced in DHEA-induced PCOS ovary. These data identified for the first time the expression of ANO1 Ca(2+) activated Cl(-) channel in mouse ovarian GCs and determined its negative regulation on estrogen production possibly through MEK-ERK signaling cascade. The present study provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms for the regulation of folliculogenesis and ovulation.

Angiotensin II type 1 receptor-mediated augmentation of urinary excretion of endogenous angiotensin II in Val5-angiotensin II-infused rats

Rats infused chronically with Val(5)-Angiotensin (Ang) II exhibit increased urinary excretion of endogenous Ile(5)-Ang II by the 12th day of infusion, suggesting the stimulation of endogenous Ang II formation by Val(5)-Ang II infusion. The present study determined the time course of increased urinary Ang II excretion and the effects of Ang II type 1 receptor blockade (candesartan, 2 mg/kg per day) on the urinary excretion rates of Ile(5)-Ang II in Val(5)-Ang II-infused (80 ng/min) rats. Ile(5)-Ang II was separated from Val(5)-Ang II by high-performance liquid chromatography and measured by radioimmunoassay. Systolic blood pressure increased progressively (215+/-2 mm Hg) in Val(5)-Ang II-infused rats (n=5), whereas the candesartan-treated group (n=6) remained normotensive (124+/-3 mm Hg). Candesartan treatment significantly increased the level of plasma Ile(5)-Ang II (24.0+/-7.6 versus 156.9+/-24.6 fmol/mL; P<0.01); in contrast, there was a markedly lower intrarenal Ile(5)-Ang II content (357.9+/-76.6 versus 21.1+/-2.8 fmol/g; P<0.01). Urinary Ile(5)-Ang II excretion rates were elevated by day 9 (2185.7+/-283.2 fmol/24 hours) in Val(5)-Ang II-infused rats but not in candesartan-treated rats (740.6+/-110.3 fmol/24 hours). Thus, Ang II type 1 receptor blockade prevents the increase in urinary excretion of endogenous Ang II in rats subjected to chronic Ang II infusion. These data indicate that the increased urinary excretion of endogenous Ang II in Val(5)-Ang II-infused rats is primarily attributed to Ang II type 1 receptor-dependent secretion into and/or de novo formation of Ang II within the tubular lumen.

Large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels contribute to vascular function in nonpregnant human uterine arteries

Large conductance K( +) channels (BK(Ca)) are expressed in uterine artery (UA) smooth muscle from nonpregnant and pregnant sheep and contribute to the regulation of basal vascular tone and responses to estrogen and vasoconstrictors. To determine if BK(Ca) are expressed in women and contribute to UA function, we collected UA from nonpregnant women (n = 31) at elective hysterectomy and analyzed for subunit protein, localization with immunohistochemistry, and function using endothelium-denuded rings. UA expresses BK(Ca) alpha -, beta1- and beta2-subunit protein. KCl and phenylephrine (PE, an alpha(1)-agonist) caused dose-dependent vasoconstriction (P < .001), and UA precontracted with PE dose-dependently relaxed with sodium nitroprusside (SNP; P < .001).Tetraethylammonium chloride (TEA, 0.2-1.0 mM), a BK(Ca) inhibitor, dose-dependently increased resting tone (P = .004; 28% +/- 5.3% with 1.0 mM), enhanced PE-induced (10(-)(6) M) vasoconstriction (P < .04), and attenuated SNP-induced relaxation at 1.0 mM (P = .02). BK( Ca) are expressed in human UA and modulate vascular function by attenuating vasoconstrictor responses and contributing to nitric oxide-induced vasorelaxation.

Enhanced distal nephron sodium reabsorption in chronic angiotensin II-infused mice

Chronic angiotensin II (Ang II) infusions enhance urinary excretion of angiotensinogen, suggesting augmentation of distal nephron sodium reabsorption. To assess whether chronic Ang II infusions (15 ng/min for 2 weeks) enhance distal nephron sodium reabsorption, we compared sodium excretion before and after blockade of the 2 main distal nephron sodium transporters by IV amiloride (5 mg/kg of body weight) plus bendroflumethiazide (12 mg/kg of body weight) in male C57/BL6 anesthetized control mice (n=10) and in chronic Ang II-infused mice (n=8). Chronic Ang II infusions increased systolic blood pressure to 141+/-6 mm Hg compared with 106+/-4 mm Hg in control mice. After anesthesia, mean arterial pressure averaged 97+/-4 mm Hg in chronic Ang II-infused mice compared with 94+/-3 mm Hg in control mice, allowing comparison of renal function at similar arterial pressures. Ang II-infused mice had lower urinary sodium excretion (0.16+/-0.04 versus 0.30+/-0.05 microEq/min; P<0.05), higher distal sodium reabsorption (1.74+/-0.18 versus 1.12+/-0.18 microEq/min; P<0.05), and higher fractional reabsorption of distal sodium delivery (91.1+/-1.8% versus 77.9+/-4.3%; P<0.05) than control mice. Urinary Ang II concentrations, measured during distal blockade, were greater in Ang II-infused mice (1235.0+/-277.2 versus 468.9+/-146.9 fmol/mL; P<0.05). In chronic Ang II-infused mice treated with spironolactone (n=5), fractional reabsorption of distal sodium delivery was similarly augmented as in chronic Ang II-infused mice (94.6+/-1.7%; P<0.01). These data provide in vivo evidence that there is enhanced distal sodium reabsorption dependent on sodium channel and Na(+)-Cl(-) cotransporter activity and increased urinary Ang II concentrations in mice infused chronically with Ang II.

Effects of renal perfusion pressure on renal medullary hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide production

Studies were designed to determine the effects of increases of renal perfusion pressure on the production of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) and NO(2)(-)+NO(3)(-) within the renal outer medulla. Sprague-Dawley rats were studied with either the renal capsule intact or removed to ascertain the contribution of changes of medullary blood flow and renal interstitial hydrostatic pressure on H(2)O(2) and NO(2)(-)+NO(3)(-) production. Responses to three 30-minute step changes of renal perfusion pressure (from approximately 85 to approximately 115 to approximately 145 mm Hg) were studied using adjustable aortic occluders proximal and distal to the left renal artery. Medullary interstitial H(2)O(2) determined by microdialysis increased at each level of renal perfusion pressure from 640 to 874 to 1593 nmol/L, as did H(2)O(2) urinary excretion rates, and these responses were significantly attenuated by decapsulation. Medullary interstitial NO(2)(-)+NO(3)(-) increased from 9.2 to 13.8 to 16.1 mumol/L, with parallel changes in urine NO(2)(-)+NO(3)(-), but decapsulation did not significantly blunt these responses. Over the range of renal perfusion pressure, medullary blood flow (laser-Doppler flowmetry) rose approximately 30% and renal interstitial hydrostatic pressure rose from 7.8 to 19.7 cm H(2)O. Renal interstitial hydrostatic pressure and the natriuretic and diuretic responses were significantly attenuated with decapsulation, but medullary blood flow was not affected. The data indicate that pressure-induced increases of H(2)O(2) emanated largely from increased tubular flow rates to the medullary thick-ascending limbs of Henle and NO largely from increased medullary blood flow to the vasa recta. The parallel pressure-induced increases of H(2)O(2) and NO indicate a participation in shaping the "normal" pressure-natriuresis relationship and explain why an imbalance in either would affect the blood pressure salt sensitivity.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme-derived angiotensin II formation during angiotensin II-induced hypertension

The extent to which endogenous angiotensin (Ang) II formation is responsible for increasing kidney Ang II content and blood pressure during Ang II-induced hypertension is unknown. To address this, mice were treated with an Ang-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor (ACEi) to block endogenous Ang II formation during chronic Ang II infusions. C57BL/6J male mice (8 to 12 weeks) were subjected to Ang II infusions (400 ng/kg per minute) with or without an ACEi (lisinopril, 100 mg/L in the drinking water) for 12 days. Blood pressure was monitored by tail-cuff method and telemetry. Ang II content was determined by radioimmunoanalysis. Ang II infusions increased 24-hour mean arterial pressure significantly (141.0+/-3.7 mm Hg) versus controls (110.0+/-1.0 mm Hg). ACEi prevented the increase in concentration in Ang II-infused mice (Ang II+ACEi; 114.0+/-7.4 mm Hg; P value not significant). Plasma Ang II content was significantly increased by Ang II (367+/-60 fmol/mL) versus controls (128+/-22 fmol/mL; P<0.05); plasma Ang II was not altered by ACEi alone (90+/-31) or in combination with Ang II infusions (76+/-27). Intrarenal Ang II content was significantly increased by Ang II (998+/-143 fmol/g) versus controls (524+/-60 fmol/g; P<0.05), and this was prevented by ACEi (Ang II+ACEi; 484+/-102 fmol/g; P value not significant). Thus, ACEi ameliorates the increases in blood pressure and intrarenal Ang II content caused by Ang II infusions, indicating that endogenous ACE-mediated Ang II formation plays a significant role in the increases of blood pressure and intrarenal Ang II during Ang II-induced hypertension.

Activation of Cl- channels by human chorionic gonadotropin in luteinized granulosa cells of the human ovary modulates progesterone biosynthesis

Chloride permeability pathways and progesterone (P4) secretion elicited by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in human granulosa cells were studied by electrophysiological techniques and single-cell volume, membrane potential and Ca2+i measurements. Reduction in extracellular Cl(-) and equimolar substitution by the membrane-impermeant anions glutamate or gluconate significantly increased hCG-stimulated P4 accumulation. A similar result was achieved by exposing the cells to hCG in the presence of a hypotonic extracellular solution. Conversely, P4 accumulation was drastically reduced in cells challenged with hCG exposed to a hypertonic solution. Furthermore, conventional Cl(-) channel inhibitors abolished hCG-mediated P4 secretion. In contrast, 25-hydroxycholesterol-mediated P4 accumulation was unaffected by Cl(-) channel blockers. In human granulosa cells, hCG triggered the activation of a tamoxifen-sensitive outwardly rectifying Cl(-) current comparable to the volume-sensitive outwardly rectifying Cl(-) current. Exposure of human granulosa cells to hCG induced a rapid 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2-disulphonic acid-sensitive cell membrane depolarization that was paralleled with an approximately 20% decrease in cell volume. Treatment with hCG evoked oscillatory and nonoscillatory intracellular Ca2+ signals in human granulosa cells. Extracellular Ca2+ removal and 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2-disulphonic acid abolished the nonoscillatory component while leaving the Ca2+ oscillations unaffected. It is concluded that human granulosa cells express functional the volume-sensitive outwardly rectifying Cl(-) channels that are activated by hCG, which are critical for plasma membrane potential changes, Ca2+ influx, and P4 production.

Acute angiotensin II infusions elicit pressure natriuresis in mice and reduce distal fractional sodium reabsorption

Acute angiotensin II (Ang II) infusions into mice increase arterial pressure (AP) and elicit pressure natriuresis. We used this model of pressure natriuresis to delineate the distal nephron responses to AP-mediated increases in distal sodium delivery. In the first group, we measured changes in urinary sodium excretion (U(Na)V) in male C57/BL6 anesthetized mice (n=9) before and during acute Ang II infusions (5 ng/g of body weight per minute). Acute Ang II infusions increased AP (98+/-3 to 126+/-5 mm Hg; P<0.001), urine flow (2.7+/-0.5 to 6.0+/-0.8 microL/min; P<0.01), and U(Na)V (0.6+/-0.2 to 1.3+/-0.2 microEq/min; P<0.05). There were significant relationships between U(Na)V and urine flow (y=0.207x+0.030; P<0.0001) and between U(Na)V and AP (y=0.027x-2.100). In a separate series, distal sodium delivery and fractional reabsorption of distal sodium delivery were determined in control (n=12) and Ang II-infused mice (n=8) by comparing U(Na)V before and after blockade of the 2 major distal nephron sodium transporters with amiloride (5 mg/kg of body weight) plus bendroflumethiazide (12 mg/kg of body weight). A positive relationship was found between U(Na)V (y=0.015x-1.100; P<0.0001) or distal sodium delivery (y=0.027x-0.900; P<0.0001) and AP. An inverse relationship was found between fractional reabsorption of distal sodium delivery and AP (y=-0.511x+128.300; P<0.01). These data indicate that Ang II-mediated pressure natriuresis involves an increase in distal sodium delivery combined with a reduced distal nephron fractional sodium reabsorption, suggesting that increased AP prevents the distal nephron transport mechanisms from accommodating the increased distal delivery.

The intrarenal renin-angiotensin system: from physiology to the pathobiology of hypertension and kidney disease

In recent years, the focus of interest on the role of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the pathophysiology of hypertension and organ injury has changed to a major emphasis on the role of the local RAS in specific tissues. In the kidney, all of the RAS components are present and intrarenal angiotensin II (Ang II) is formed by independent multiple mechanisms. Proximal tubular angiotensinogen, collecting duct renin, and tubular angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors are positively augmented by intrarenal Ang II. In addition to the classic RAS pathways, prorenin receptors and chymase are also involved in local Ang II formation in the kidney. Moreover, circulating Ang II is actively internalized into proximal tubular cells by AT1 receptor-dependent mechanisms. Consequently, Ang II is compartmentalized in the renal interstitial fluid and the proximal tubular compartments with much higher concentrations than those existing in the circulation. Recent evidence has also revealed that inappropriate activation of the intrarenal RAS is an important contributor to the pathogenesis of hypertension and renal injury. Thus, it is necessary to understand the mechanisms responsible for independent regulation of the intrarenal RAS. In this review, we will briefly summarize our current understanding of independent regulation of the intrarenal RAS and discuss how inappropriate activation of this system contributes to the development and maintenance of hypertension and renal injury. We will also discuss the impact of antihypertensive agents in preventing the progressive increases in the intrarenal RAS during the development of hypertension and renal injury.

Effects of Anesthesia on Plasma and Kidney ANG II Levels in Normotensive and ANG II-Dependent Hypertensive Rats

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have implicated that normotensive rats with normal renal renin activity respond to anesthesia and surgery with greater increases in plasma and kidney angiotensin II (ANG II) concentrations than ANG II-dependent hypertensive rats with intrarenal renin depletion. In the present study, we therefore compared plasma and kidney ANG II levels in anesthetized and conscious normotensive and ANG II-dependent hypertensive rats.

METHODS

Salt-replete Hannover-Sprague-Dawley rats (HanSD) served as controls. As models of ANG II-dependent hypertension we used: 1st, transgenic rats harboring the Ren-2 renin gene (TGR); 2nd, two-kidney, one-clip (2K1C) Goldblatt hypertensive rats, and, 3rd, ANG II-infused hypertensive rats. As additional model with enhanced renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activity, salt-depleted HanSD and TGR were employed.

RESULTS

In anesthetized salt-repleted HanSD, plasma and kidney ANG II levels were higher than in salt-repleted TGR, ANG II-infused and 2K1C rats. Salt depletion caused marked increases in ANG II levels in HanSD but did not alter them in TGR. In contrast, in conscious animals immediately after decapitation plasma and kidney ANG II levels were similar in salt-repleted and salt-depleted TGR, in ANG II-infused rats, in the clipped kidney of 2K1C rats and in salt-depleted HanSD and in all these groups they were significantly higher than in salt-repleted HanSD.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that anesthesia increases plasma and kidney ANG II levels in HanSD to a greater degree than in ANG II-dependent models of hypertension. Therefore, the results from studies employing anesthetized animals must be interpreted with caution.

Ion channels of primate ovarian endocrine cells: identification and functional significance

Ion channels are crucially involved in cellular functions, but little is known about molecular identity, subunit composition and the specific role of ion channels in ovarian endocrine cells in human and nonhuman primates. Using human luteinizing granulosa cells, a few groups have started to address these questions and have begun to show molecular identity of ion channels, electrophysiological functions and the relationship to hormone production, as well as regulation by hormones and intraovarian factors. Functional ion channels that have been identified so far include T- and L-type Ca²⁺ channels (Ca_v3.2, Ca_v1.2), a voltage-dependent Na⁺ channel (Na_v1.7), as well as voltage- (K_v4.2) and Ca²⁺-dependent K⁺ channels (BK_Ca). Since all these ion channels were found to be involved in steroid hormone synthesis and are expressed by endocrine ovarian cells in human and nonhuman ovary, it has been proposed that they are physiological key molecules for ovarian function. Furthermore, they may be novel targets for modulating ovarian functions.

Effect of nitric oxide synthase inhibition on changes induced by estradiol in bladders from ovariectomized rabbits

PURPOSE

Our current study was designed to determine whether estradiol-induced increases in bladder blood flow could be inhibited by N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), and thus whether nitric oxide was involved in estrogen-linked female bladder blood flow alterations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixteen female New Zealand White rabbits were separated into 4 groups of 4 rabbits each. (1) Sham group received sham operation and injections of vehicle (peanut oil). (2) Ovariectomy (OVX) group received ovariectomies and injections of vehicle. (3) Ovariectomy+estrogen (OVX+E) group received ovariectomy and injections of 17beta-estradiol (1 mg/kg) dissolved in peanut oil. (4) Ovariectomy+estradiol+L-NAME (OVX+E+L-NAME) group received ovariectomies and injections of 17beta-estradiol and L-NAME. All treatments were continued for 4 weeks. At 4 weeks after treatment, each rabbit was anesthetized and cystometries were performed. After cystometry, blood flow to the detrusor muscle and mucosa was determined by standard fluorescent microsphere infusion technique. Then four longitudinal detrusor strips and two rings of descending thoracic aorta were mounted in individual 15 ml baths containing oxygenated Tyrode's solution at 37 degrees C. Contractile responses to several agents were determined. Full-thickness sections of detrusor were fixed and embedded in paraffin for alpha-actin immunostaining.

RESULTS

In the bladder: (1) Estradiol resulted in an increases in bladder weight and blood flow; L-NAME inhibited these increases. (2) OVX resulted in a decreased cystometric capacity; estradiol resulted in increased capacity which was attenuated by L-NAME treatment. (3) OVX resulted in significantly decreased contractile responses to all forms of stimulation; estradiol resulted in significantly increased contractile responses which were attenuated by L-NAME treatment. (4) OVX resulted in a significant decrease in the volume-fraction of smooth muscle in the detrusor; estradiol resulted in a significant increase which was attenuated by L-NAME.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings strongly support the hypothesis that nitric oxide plays a major role in the alterations in blood flow mediated by changing circulating estrogen and that these changes mediate at least in part the cystometric and contractile changes induced by alterations in circulating estrogen.

Estrogen receptor alpha mediates acute potassium channel stimulation in human coronary artery smooth muscle cells

The pleiotropic effects of estrogen are mediated via stimulation of two estrogen receptor (ER) subtypes, ERalpha and ERbeta. Although a number of studies have identified expression of one or both subtypes in estrogen target tissues, fewer studies have correlated ER expression with a functional role of these proteins in regulating cellular excitability. In the present study, we have combined cellular fluorescence, immunocytochemistry, and molecular expression techniques with single-channel patch-clamp studies to determine which ER mediates estrogen-stimulated potassium channel activity in human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (HCASMC). We had demonstrated previously that estrogen stimulates activity of the large-conductance, calcium- and voltage-activated potassium (BK(Ca)) channel in HCASMC via a nongenomic mechanism. We now demonstrate expression of both ERalpha and ERbeta subtypes in HCASMC. Functionally, however, expression of ERalpha antisense plasmid abolished the acute effect of estrogen on these channels, whereas estrogen retained its ability to stimulate BK(Ca) channels in cells transfected with only green fluorescence protein. In contrast, overexpression of ERalpha enhanced the stimulatory action of estrogen in HCASMC. Transfection with ERalpha antisense/sense plasmid did not alter ERbeta expression. These findings indicate that the ERalpha isoform mediates estrogen-induced stimulation of BK(Ca) channels in HCASMC and thereby provide evidence for a receptor-dependent signaling mechanism that can mediate estrogen-induced inhibition of cellular excitability.

Impaired Ca2+ signaling attenuates P2X receptor-mediated vasoconstriction of afferent arterioles in angiotensin II hypertension

This study tested the hypothesis that afferent arteriolar responses to purinoceptor activation are attenuated, and Ca2+ signaling mechanisms are responsible for the blunted preglomerular vascular reactivity in angiotensin II (Ang II) hypertension. Experiments determined the effects of ATP, the P2X1 agonist beta,gamma-methylene ATP or the P2Y agonist UTP on arteriolar diameter using the juxtamedullary nephron technique and on renal myocyte intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) using single cell fluorescence microscopy. Six or 13 days of Ang II infusion significantly attenuated the vasoconstrictor responses to ATP and beta,gamma-methylene ATP (P<0.05). During exposure to ATP (1, 10, and 100 micromol/L), afferent diameter declined by 17+/-2%, 29+/-3%, and 30+/-2% in normal control rats and 8+/-3%, 7+/-3%, and 22+/-3% in kidneys of Ang II-infused rats (13 days). Renal myocyte intracellular calcium responses to ATP or beta,gamma-methylene ATP were also decreased in Ang II hypertensive rats. In myocytes of control rats, peak increases in [Ca2+]i averaged 107+/-21, 170+/-38, and 478+/-79 nmol/L at ATP concentrations of 1, 10, and 100 micromol/L, respectively. Ang II infusion for 13 days decreased the peak responses to ATP (1, 10, and 100 micromol/L) to 65+/-13, 102+/-20, and 367+/-73 nmol/L, respectively. The peak increases in [Ca2+]i in response to beta,gamma-methylene ATP were also reduced in Ang II hypertensive rats. However, angiotensin hypertension did not change the UTP-mediated vasoconstrictor responses or the myocyte calcium responses to UTP. These results indicate that the impaired autoregulatory response observed in Ang II-dependent hypertension can be attributed to impairment of P2X1 receptor-mediated signal transduction.

Abnormal regulation of G protein alpha(i2) subunit in skin fibroblasts from insulin-resistant hypertensive individuals

BACKGROUND

Studies in experimental animals and human cells have demonstrated increased intracellular calcium (Ca(i2) signalling and Galphai signal transduction associated with hypertension. We have recently shown that angiotensin II-induced mobilization of Ca(i2) is enhanced in fibroblasts from hypertensive individuals in comparison with that in normotensive individuals and that it is blunted by insulin and pertussis toxin in insulin-sensitive, but not in insulin-resistant, patients. This suggests that G(i)-mediated signal transduction is reduced in insulin-resistant hypertension.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression and regulation of Galpha(i2) subunit in insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant hypertensive individuals.

METHODS

G protein alpha(i2) subunit mRNA was measured in cultured skin fibroblasts from patients with insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant hypertension, by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. We also investigated the effects of short-term exposure to fetal calf serum, angiotensin II and insulin, alone and in combination, on the expression of Galpha(i2) in vitro. Spectrofluorophotometric measurement of free Cai was performed in monolayers of 24 h serum-deprived cells in basal conditions and after exposure to angiotensin II, with and without pre-incubation with insulin.

RESULTS

Expression of Galpha(i2) was significantly greater in fibroblasts from hypertensive individuals than in normotensive individuals and the increase was unrelated to age and body mass. The difference was largely accounted for by greater values in insulin-sensitive than in insulin-resistant hypertensive individuals. In fibroblasts from those with insulin-sensitive hypertension, angiotensin II and insulin were additive to fetal calf serum in increasing the expression of Galpha(i2). In these patients, insulin blunted the angiotensin-II induced Cai transient. In contrast, in those with insulin-resistant hypertension, Galpha(i2) was lower and unresponsive to angiotensin II and insulin. Finally, in fibroblasts from insulin-resistant patients, insulin was unable to reduce the angiotensin II-induced Cai peak.

CONCLUSIONS

A subnormal Galpha(i2)-mediated signal transduction may be involved in the pathogenesis of cellular insulin resistance in hypertension. This novel Galpha(i2)-mediated signal transduction associated with insulin sensitivity in fibroblasts may help to control excessive angiotensin II signalling.

Enhancement of collecting duct renin in angiotensin II-dependent hypertensive rats

Distal nephron renin may provide a possible pathway for angiotensin (Ang) I generation from proximally delivered angiotensinogen. To examine the effects of Ang II on distal nephron renin, we compared renin protein and mRNA expression in control and Ang II-infused rats. Kidneys from sham (n=9) and Ang II-infused (80 ng/kg per minute, 13 days, n=10) Sprague-Dawley rats were processed by immunohistochemistry, Western blot, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Ang II infusion increased systolic blood pressure (181+/-4 versus 115+/-5 mm Hg) and suppressed plasma and kidney cortex renin activity. Renin immunoreactivity was suppressed in juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA) cells in Ang II-infused rats compared with sham (0.1+/-0.1 versus 1.0+/-0.1 relative ratio) but increased in distal nephron segments (6.4+/-1.4 versus 1.0+/-0.1 cortex; 2.5+/-0.3 versus 1.0+/-0.2 medulla). Tubular renin immunostaining was apically distributed in principal cells colocalizing with aquaporin-2 in connecting tubules and cortical and medullary collecting ducts. Renin protein levels were decreased in the kidney cortex of Ang II-infused rats compared with that of sham (0.4+/-0.2 versus 1.0+/-0.4) rats but higher in the kidney medulla (1.2+/-0.4 versus 1.0+/-0.1). In kidney medulla, RT-PCR and quantitative real-time PCR showed similar levels of renin transcript in both groups. In summary, the detection of renin mRNA in the renal medulla, which is devoid of JGA, indicates local synthesis rather than an uptake of JGA renin. In contrast to the inhibitory effect of Ang II on JGA renin, Ang II infusion stimulates renin protein expression in collecting ducts and maintains renin transcriptional levels in the medulla, which may contribute to the increased intrarenal Ang II levels in Ang II-dependent hypertension.

Jejunal microvilli atrophy and reduced nutrient transport in rats with advanced liver cirrhosis: improvement by Insulin-like Growth Factor I

Background

Previous results have shown that in rats with non-ascitic cirrhosis there is an altered transport of sugars and amino acids associated with elongated microvilli. These alterations returned to normal with the administration of Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I (IGF-I). The aims of this study were to explore the evolution of these alterations and analyse the effect of IGF-I in rats with advanced cirrhosis and ascites. Thus, jejunal structure and nutrient transport (D-galactose, L-leucine, L-proline, L-glutamic acid and L-cystine) were studied in rats with ascitic cirrhosis.

Methods

Advanced cirrhosis was induced by CCl₄ inhalation and Phenobarbital administration for 30 weeks. Cirrhotic animals were divided into two groups which received IGF-I or saline during two weeks. Control group was studied in parallel. Jejunal microvilli were studied by electron microscopy. Nutrient transport was assessed in brush border membrane vesicles using ¹⁴C or ³⁵S-labelled subtracts in the three experimental groups.

Results

Intestinal active Na⁺-dependent transport was significantly reduced in untreated cirrhotic rats. Kinetic studies showed a decreased V_max and a reduced affinity for sugar and four amino acids transporters (expressed as an increased K_t) in the brush border membrane vesicles from untreated cirrhotic rats as compared with controls. Both parameters were normalised in the IGF-I-treated cirrhotic group. Electron microscopy showed elongation and fusion of microvilli with degenerative membrane lesions and/or notable atrophy.

Conclusions

The initial microvilli elongation reported in non ascitic cirrhosis develops into atrophy in rats with advanced cirrhosis and nutrient transports (monosaccharides and amino acids) are progressively reduced. Both morphological and functional alterations improved significantly with low doses of IGF-I.

AT1 receptor mediated augmentation of intrarenal angiotensinogen in angiotensin II-dependent hypertension

Angiotensin (Ang) II-infused hypertensive rats exhibit increases in renal angiotensinogen mRNA and protein, as well as urinary angiotensinogen excretion in association with increased intrarenal Ang II content. The present study was performed to determine if the augmentation of intrarenal angiotensinogen requires activation of Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptors. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (200 to 220 g) were divided into 3 groups: sham surgery (n=10), subcutaneous infusion of Ang II (80 ng/min, n=11), and Ang II infusion plus AT1 blocker (ARB), olmesartan (5 mg/d, n=12). Ang II infusion progressively increased systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared with sham (178+/-8 mm Hg versus 119+/-4 at day 11). ARB treatment prevented hypertension (113+/-6 at day 11). Twenty-four-hour urine collections were taken at day 12, and plasma and tissue samples were harvested at day 13. The Ang II+ARB group had a significant increase in plasma Ang II compared with Ang II and sham groups (365+/-46 fmol/mL versus 76+/-9 and 45+/-14, respectively). Nevertheless, ARB treatment markedly limited the enhancement of kidney Ang II by Ang II infusion (65+/-17 fmol/g in sham, 606+/-147 in Ang II group, and 288+/-28 in Ang II+ARB group). Ang II infusion significantly increased kidney angiotensinogen compared with sham (1.69+/-0.21 densitometric units versus 1.00+/-0.17). This change was reflected by increased angiotensinogen immunostaining in proximal tubules. ARB treatment prevented this increase (1.14+/-0.12). Urinary angiotensinogen excretion rates were enhanced 4.7x in Ang II group (4.67+/-0.41 densitometric units versus 1.00+/-0.21) but ARB treatment prevented the augmentation of urinary angiotensinogen (0.96+/-0.23). These data demonstrate that augmentation of intrarenal angiotensinogen in Ang II-infused rats is AT1-dependent and provide further evidence that urinary angiotensinogen is closely linked to intrarenal Ang II in Ang II-dependent hypertension.

Airway surface liquid calcium modulates chloride permeability in the cystic fibrosis airway

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) demonstrate a characteristic defect in epithelial chloride movement, which can be demonstrated in vivo by the nasal potential difference technique. After amiloride pretreatment, the CF airway exhibits only a transient response to perfusion with low-chloride solution, contrasting with the sustained hyperpolarization seen in control subjects. This study further investigated the response to low-chloride solution in the CF airway, examining the interaction between surface divalent ions and the low-chloride response. Sequential perfusion with amiloride, low chloride, and isoproterenol was tested in groups of subjects with CF, with the diluent containing different concentrations of calcium and magnesium, on different days. When the low-chloride response was measured with the nominally calcium-free diluents, the subjects with CF had mean (SEM) responses of 8.0 (0.7), 8.6 (2.4), and 9.6 (1.6) mV in the presence of 0, 1, and 3 mM Mg2+, respectively, significantly different from the response in the presence of divalent ions. However, the subsequent response to isoproterenol was not different in the presence or absence of divalent ions. We hypothesize that perfusion of the CF airway with nominally calcium-free solutions reduces tonic inhibition of chloride secretion.

Renal interstitial fluid angiotensin I and angiotensin II concentrations during local angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition

It was recently demonstrated that angiotensin II (AngII) concentrations in the renal interstitial fluid (RIF) of anesthetized rats were in the nanomolar range and were not reduced by intra-arterial infusion of an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor (enalaprilat). This study was performed to determine changes in RIF AngI and AngII concentrations during interstitial administration of ACE inhibitors (enalaprilat and perindoprilat). Studies were also performed to determine the effects of enalaprilat on the de novo formation of RIF AngII elicited by interstitial infusion of AngI. Microdialysis probes (cut-off point, 30,000 D) were implanted in the renal cortex of anesthetized rats and were perfused at 2 micro l/min. The effluent dialysate concentrations of AngI and AngII were measured by RIA, and reported values were corrected for the equilibrium rates at this perfusion rate. Basal RIF AngI (0.74 +/- 0.05 nM) and AngII (3.30 +/- 0.17 nM) concentrations were much higher than plasma AngI and AngII concentrations (0.15 +/- 0.01 and 0.14 +/- 0.01 nM, respectively; n = 27). Interstitial infusion of enalaprilat through the microdialysis probe (1 or 10 mM in the perfusate; n = 5 and 8, respectively) significantly increased RIF AngI concentrations but did not significantly alter AngII concentrations. However, perindoprilat (10 mM in the perfusate, n = 7) significantly decreased RIF AngII concentrations by 22 +/- 4% and increased RIF AngI concentrations. Interstitial infusion of AngI (100 nM in the perfusate, n = 7) significantly increased the RIF AngII concentration to 8.26 +/- 0.75 nM, whereas plasma AngI and AngII levels were not affected (0.15 +/- 0.02 and 0.14 +/- 0.02 nM, respectively). Addition of enalaprilat to the perfusate (10 mM) prevented the conversion of exogenously added AngI. These results indicate that addition of AngI in the interstitial compartment leads to low but significant conversion to AngII via ACE activity (blocked by enalaprilat). However, the addition of ACE inhibitors directly into the renal interstitium, via the microdialysis probe, either did not reduce RIF AngII levels or reduced levels by a small fraction of the total basal level, suggesting that much of the RIF AngII is formed at sites not readily accessible to ACE inhibition or is formed via non-ACE-dependent pathways.

Basal lamina of ovarian follicle regulates an inward Cl(-) current in differentiated granulosa cells

Patch-clamp experiments were conducted to study the effects of basal lamina (basement membrane) of preovulatory chicken ovarian follicle on membrane currents in differentiated chicken granulosa cells in a homologous system. The membrane capacitance (measure of total membrane area) was smaller in cells cultured on intact basal lamina than that of control cells. The granulosa cells expressed outward and two inward currents. A small fraction of the cells (3%) expressed only a transient fast-activating and -inactivating inward current carried by Ca(2+). The majority of the cells, however, expressed a slowly activating and inactivating inward current (carried by Cl(-)) that was superimposed on the transient Ca(2+) current. All cells expressed an outward current characteristic of the delayed-rectifier K(+) current. The removal of extracellular Ca(2+) led to elimination of the slow inward Cl(-) current, indicating that it is a Ca(2+)-dependent Cl(-) current. Both peak amplitude and current density of the inward Cl(-) current were significantly lower in cells cultured on freshly isolated intact basal lamina (or basal lamina stored at 4 degrees C for 12 mo) than those of control cells; however, basal lamina had no significant effect on the density of the outward current. Similar to the observations made for intact basal lamina, solubilized basal lamina suppressed the inward Cl(-) current in differentiated granulosa cells. These data show that homologous basal lamina modulates a Ca(2+)-dependent Cl(-) current in differentiated granulosa cells. These findings provide a partial explanation for the mechanisms that subserve the reported effects of basal lamina (basement membrane) on the metabolic functions of differentiated granulosa cells.

Renal interstitial fluid concentrations of angiotensins I and II in anesthetized rats

Previous studies have indicated that angiotensin II (Ang II) concentrations in renal interstitial fluid are much higher than plasma levels. In the present study, we performed experiments to explore renal interstitial fluid concentrations of Ang I and Ang II further and to determine whether these levels are altered by acute arterial infusion of an ACE inhibitor (enalaprilat) or by volume expansion. Microdialysis probes (molecular weight cutoff point: 30 000 Da) were implanted in the renal cortex of anesthetized rats and were perfused at a rate of 2 microL/min. Using relative equilibrium rates, the basal renal interstitial fluid Ang II concentration averaged 3.07+/-0.43 nmol/L, a value much higher than the plasma Ang II concentration of 107+/-8 pmol/L (n=7). Interstitial fluid Ang I concentrations (0.84+/-0.04 nmol/L) were consistently lower than the Ang II concentrations but higher than the plasma Ang I concentrations (112+/-14 pmol/L). Intra-arterial infusion of enalaprilat (7.5 micromol/kg/min, n=5) for 120 minutes resulted in a significant decrease in mean arterial pressure (from 114+/-4 to 68+/-4 mm Hg) along with reductions in plasma and renal ACE activity (by -99% and -52%, respectively). Enalaprilat resulted in a significant increase in plasma Ang I from 133+/-21 to 1167+/-328 pmol/L and a decrease in plasma Ang II from 110+/-12 to 67+/-9 pmol/L. During enalaprilat infusion, interstitial fluid concentration of Ang I was significantly increased from 0.78+/-0.06 to 0.97+/-0.08 nmol/L; however, Ang II concentrations were not altered significantly (3.67+/-0.28 versus 3.67+/-0.25 nmol/L). Acute volume loading with Ringer's solution containing 1% bovine serum albumin at a rate of 150 microL/min for 2 hours (6% to 7% of body weight) lowered plasma concentrations of Ang I from 110+/-23 to 16+/-2 pmol/L and Ang II from 100+/-23 to 36+/-6 pmol/L; however, renal interstitial fluid concentrations of Ang I and Ang II were not altered significantly during volume expansion (Ang I, from 0.77+/-0.05 to 0.69+/-0.03 nmol/L; Ang II, from 3.76+/-0.43 to 3.59+/-0.39 nmol/L, n=5). These data indicate that renal interstitial fluid concentrations of Ang I and Ang II are substantially higher than the corresponding plasma concentrations. Furthermore, the fact that the high interstitial fluid concentrations of Ang II are not responsive to acute ACE inhibition or volume expansion suggests the compartmentalization and independent regulation of renal interstitial fluid Ang II.

Ang II accumulation in rat renal endosomes during Ang II-induced hypertension: role of AT(1) receptor

Hypertension induced by long-term infusion of angiotensin II (Ang II) is associated with augmented intrarenal Ang II levels to a greater extent than can be explained on the basis of the circulating Ang II levels. Although part of this augmentation is due to AT(1) receptor-dependent internalization, the intracellular compartments involved in this Ang II accumulation remain unknown. In the present study, we sought to determine whether Ang II trafficking into renal cortical endosomes is increased during Ang II hypertension, and if so, whether the AT(1) receptor antagonist, candesartan, prevents this accumulation. Compared with controls (n=12; 114+/-2 mm Hg), Ang II-infused rats (n=12; 80 ng/kg/min, SC, for 13 days) developed hypertension with systolic blood pressure rising to 185+/-4 mm Hg by Day 12. In Ang II hypertensive rats, plasma renin activity was suppressed, whereas plasma and kidney Ang II levels were increased by 3-fold (348+/-58 versus 119+/-16 fmol/mL) and 2-fold (399+/-39 versus 186+/-26 fmol/g). Intracellular endosomal Ang II levels were increased by more than 10-fold (1100+/-283 versus 71+/-12 fmol/mg protein), whereas intermicrovillar cleft Ang II levels were increased by more than 2-fold (88+/-22 versus 37+/-7 fmol/mg protein). Flow cytometric analysis detected significant increases in AT(1A) receptor antibody binding in endosomal and intermicrovillar clefts of Ang II-infused rats. The hypertension induced by Ang II was prevented in rats treated concurrently with candesartan (2 mg/kg/d, 119+/-3 mm Hg). Candesartan treatment (n=8) also prevented increases in kidney (215+/-19 fmol/g), endosomal (96+/-29 fmol/mg protein), and intermicrovillar cleft Ang II levels (11+/-2 fmol/mg protein). These results indicate that there is substantial intracellular accumulation of angiotensin peptides in renal cortical endosomes during Ang II-dependent hypertension via an AT(1) receptor-mediated process.

Nutrient absorption

Some interesting advances in mechanisms and regulation of nutrient absorption were reported last year. Further evidence was obtained that the rate-limiting step in triacylglycerol absorption, especially with large doses of lipid, is transport of prechylomicrons from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi apparatus. Targeted disruption of the adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter in mice produced changes similar to human Tangier disease and suggested that this mouse may be a model for studying intestinal high-density lipoprotein assembly and secretion. A new mechanism for carbohydrate malabsorption was discovered: in sucrase-isomaltase deficiency, the enzyme fails to anchor in the brush border membrane and so is secreted into the lumen, where it is ineffective. Glycosylating insulin at B1 phenylalanine permitted it to bind to the brush border membrane and greatly enhanced its hypoglycemic activity when given orally. CaCo-2 cells and normal human enterocytes were shown to have two variants of the human sodium-dependent vitamin C transporter, hSVCT1; one is active and the other is an inactive splice variant. In rats, the divalent metal ion transporter, DMT1, appeared to be important for regulation of both absorption of iron and its movement into the liver.