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Zhu Y, Sun H, Wang H, Li N. Synaptic mechanisms underlying the elevated sympathetic outflow in fructose-induced hypertension. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1365594. [PMID: 38505704 PMCID: PMC10949223 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1365594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome is associated with cardiovascular dysfunction, including elevated sympathetic outflow. However, the underlying brain mechanisms are unclear. The nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) critically regulates autonomic reflexes related to cardiovascular function and contains neurons projecting to the caudal ventrolateral medulla (CVLM). Nitric oxide (NO) is a diffusible free-radical messenger in the vascular, immune, and nervous systems. In this study, we determine if NO in the NTS is involved in the synaptic plasticity underlying the elevated sympathetic outflow in fructose-induced hypertension. We retrogradely labeled CVLM-projecting NTS neurons through the injection of FluoSpheres into the CVLM in a fructose-fed rat model to determine the cellular mechanism involved in increased sympathetic outflow. Fructose feeding increased the blood pressure and glucose levels, which represent metabolic syndrome. We found that fructose feeding reduces the NO precursor L-arginine-induced increase in the firing activity of CVLM-projecting NTS neurons. Furthermore, fructose feeding reduces the L-arginine-induced increase in presynaptic spontaneous glutamatergic synaptic inputs to NTS neurons, while NO donor DEA/NO produces an increase in glutamatergic synaptic inputs in fructose-fed rats similar to that in vehicle-treated rats. In addition, fructose feeding reduces the NO-induced depressor response and sympathoinhibition. These data suggested that fructose feeding reduced NO production and, thus, the subsequent NO-induced glutamate releases in the NTS and depressor response. The findings of this study provide new insights into the central mechanisms involved in the neural control of cardiovascular and autonomic functions in the NTS in metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haiying Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongjie Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, China
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Li Y, Feng Y, Liu L, Li X, Li XY, Sun X, Li KX, Zha RR, Wang HD, Zhang MD, Fan XX, Wu D, Fan Y, Zhang HC, Qiao GF, Li BY. The baroreflex afferent pathway plays a critical role in H 2S-mediated autonomic control of blood pressure regulation under physiological and hypertensive conditions. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2021; 42:898-908. [PMID: 33154555 PMCID: PMC8149652 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-020-00549-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which is closely related to various cardiovascular disorders, lowers blood pressure (BP), but whether this action is mediated via the modification of baroreflex afferent function has not been elucidated. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the role of the baroreflex afferent pathway in H2S-mediated autonomic control of BP regulation. The results showed that baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) was increased by acute intravenous NaHS (a H2S donor) administration to renovascular hypertensive (RVH) and control rats. Molecular expression data also showed that the expression levels of critical enzymes related to H2S were aberrantly downregulated in the nodose ganglion (NG) and nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) in RVH rats. A clear reduction in BP by the microinjection of NaHS or L-cysteine into the NG was confirmed in both RVH and control rats, and a less dramatic effect was observed in model rats. Furthermore, the beneficial effects of NaHS administered by chronic intraperitoneal infusion on dysregulated systolic blood pressure (SBP), cardiac parameters, and BRS were verified in RVH rats. Moreover, the increase in BRS was attributed to activation and upregulation of the ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels Kir6.2 and SUR1, which are functionally expressed in the NG and NTS. In summary, H2S plays a crucial role in the autonomic control of BP regulation by improving baroreflex afferent function due at least in part to increased KATP channel expression in the baroreflex afferent pathway under physiological and hypertensive conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Department of Pharmacy, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, 100088, China
| | - Yan Feng
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xue Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xin-Yu Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xun Sun
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Ke-Xin Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Rong-Rong Zha
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Hong-Dan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Meng-di Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Department of Physics, School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Xiong-Xiong Fan
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yao Fan
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Hao-Cheng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Guo-Fen Qiao
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Bai-Yan Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China.
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Angiotensin II inhibits DDAH1-nNOS signaling via AT1R and μOR dimerization to modulate blood pressure control in the central nervous system. Clin Sci (Lond) 2019; 133:2401-2413. [PMID: 31755934 DOI: 10.1042/cs20191005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are important drug targets. Blocking angiotensin II (Ang II) type 1 receptor signaling alleviates hypertension and improves outcomes in patients with heart failure. Changes in structure and trafficking of GPCR, and desensitization of GPCR signaling induce pathophysiological processes. We investigated whether Ang II, via induction of AT1R and μ-opioid receptor (μOR) dimerization in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), leads to progressive hypertension. Ang II signaling increased μOR and adrenergic receptor α2A (α2A-AR) heterodimer levels and decreased expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2T202/Y204, ribosomal protein S6 kinaseT359/S363, and nNOSS1416 phosphorylation. Dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase 1 (DDAH1) expression was abolished in the NTS of adult spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Endomorphin-2 was overexpressed in NTS of adult SHRs compared with that in 6-week-old Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Administration of μOR agonist into the NTS of WKY increased blood pressure (BP), decreased nitric oxide (NO) production, and decreased DDAH1 activity. μOR agonist significantly reduced the activity of DDAH1 and decreased neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) phosphorylation. The AT1R II inhibitor, losartan, significantly decreased BP and abolished AT1R-induced formation of AT1R and μOR, and α2A-AR and μOR, heterodimers. Losartan also significantly increased the levels of nNOSS1416 phosphorylation and DDAH1 expression. These results show that Ang II may induce expression of endomorphin-2 and abolished DDAH1 activity by enhancing the formation of AT1R and μOR heterodimers in the NTS, leading to progressive hypertension.
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Cutsforth-Gregory JK, Benarroch EE. Nucleus of the solitary tract, medullary reflexes, and clinical implications. Neurology 2017; 88:1187-1196. [PMID: 28202704 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000003751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Machado NL, Silva FC, Chianca DA, de Menezes RC. Nitric oxide modulates blood pressure through NMDA receptors in the rostral ventrolateral medulla of conscious rats. Brain Res 2016; 1643:159-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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The PI3K signaling-mediated nitric oxide contributes to cardiovascular effects of angiotensin-(1-7) in the nucleus tractus solitarii of rats. Nitric Oxide 2016; 52:56-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Revised: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Xu B, Li H. Brain mechanisms of sympathetic activation in heart failure: Roles of the renin‑angiotensin system, nitric oxide and pro‑inflammatory cytokines (Review). Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:7823-9. [PMID: 26499491 PMCID: PMC4758277 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.4434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) have an insufficient perfusion to the peripheral tissues due to decreased cardiac output. The compensatory mechanisms are triggered even prior to the occurrence of clinical symptoms, which include activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and other neurohumoral factors. However, the long‑term activation of the SNS contributes to progressive cardiac dysfunction and has toxic effects on the cardiomyocytes. The mechanisms leading to the activation of SNS include changes in peripheral baroreceptor and chemoreceptor reflexes and the abnormal regulation of sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) in the central nervous system (CNS). Recent studies have focused on the role of brain mechanisms in the regulation of SNA and the progression of CHF. The renin‑angiotensin system, nitric oxide and pro‑inflammatory cytokines were shown to be involved in the abnormal regulation of SNA in the CNS. The alteration of these neurohumoral factors during CHF influences the activity of neurons in the autonomic regions and finally increase the sympathetic outflow. The present review summarizes the brain mechanisms contributing to sympathoexcitation in CHF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai First People's Hospital, College of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Hongli Li
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai First People's Hospital, College of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
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Pamenter ME, Go A, Fu Z, Powell FL. No evidence of a role for neuronal nitric oxide synthase in the nucleus tractus solitarius in ventilatory responses to acute or chronic hypoxia in awake rats. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2015; 118:750-9. [PMID: 25571988 PMCID: PMC4360023 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00333.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
When exposed to a hypoxic environment, the body's first response is a reflex increase in ventilation, termed the hypoxic ventilatory response (HVR). With chronic sustained hypoxia (CSH), such as during acclimatization to high altitude, an additional time-dependent increase in ventilation occurs, which increases the HVR and is termed ventilatory acclimatization to hypoxia (VAH). This secondary increase persists after exposure to CSH and involves plasticity within the circuits in the central nervous system that control breathing. The mechanisms of HVR plasticity are currently poorly understood. We hypothesized that changes in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) activity or expression in the nucleus tractus solitarius contribute to this plasticity and underlie VAH in rats. To test this, we treated rats held in normoxia or 10% O2 (CSH, PIO2 = 70 Torr) for 7-9 days and measured ventilation in conscious, unrestrained animals before and after microinjecting the general NOS antagonist L-NG-Nitroarginine methyl ester into the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) or systemically injecting the nNOS-specific antagonist S-methyl-l-thiocitrulline. Localization of injection sites in the NTS was confirmed by histology following the experiment. We found that 1) neither NTS-specific nor systemic nNOS antagonism had any effect on hypoxia-mediated changes in breathing or metabolism (P > 0.05), but 2) nNOS protein expression was increased in the middle and caudal NTS by CSH. A persistent HVR after nNOS blockade in the NTS contrasts with results in awake mice, and our findings do not support the hypotheses that nNOS in the NTS contribute to the HVR or VAH in awake rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E Pamenter
- Division of Physiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California; and Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ariel Go
- Division of Physiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California; and
| | - Zhenxing Fu
- Division of Physiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California; and
| | - Frank L Powell
- Division of Physiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California; and
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Abdulla MH, Johns EJ. Nitric oxide impacts on angiotensin AT2 receptor modulation of high-pressure baroreflex control of renal sympathetic nerve activity in anaesthetized rats. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2014; 210:832-44. [PMID: 24279649 PMCID: PMC3992911 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2013] [Revised: 09/30/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Aim Nitric oxide (NO) interacts with the local brain renin-angiotensin system to modulate sympathetic outflow and cardiovascular homoeostasis. This study investigated whether NO influenced the ability of angiotensin AT2 receptor activation to modify the high-pressure baroreceptor regulation of renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and heart rate (HR). Methods Anaesthetized (chloralose/urethane) rats were prepared to allow generation of baroreflex gain curves for RSNA or HR following intracerebroventricular (I.C.V.) CGP42112 (AT2 receptor agonist), PD123319 (AT2 receptor antagonist) or losartan (AT1 receptor antagonist), and then in combination with L-NAME (NO synthase inhibitor). Results I.C.V. PD123319, CGP42112, and Losartan did not change baseline mean arterial pressure, HR or RSNA. Baroreflex sensitivities for RSNA and HR were increased following AT2 receptor activation with CGP42112 by 112 and 157%, respectively, but were reduced following PD123319 by 20% (all P < 0.05). L-NAME alone increased baroreflex sensitivity for both RSNA and HR, by 62 and 158%, respectively, but when co-infused with either CGP42112 or PD123319, the baroreflex sensitivity fell to values comparable to those obtained during I.C.V. saline infusion. The baroreflex sensitivities for RSNA and HR were increased by losartan by 92% and 192%, respectively, but in the presence of L-NAME were no different from those obtained during I.C.V. saline infusion. Conclusion There is an important facilitatory role for AT2 receptors in the high-pressure baroreflex regulation of RSNA and HR which is dependent on a functional NO/NOS system. Conversely, AT1 receptors have an inhibitory effect on the baroreflex, an action that relies on a tonic inhibition of NO.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. H. Abdulla
- Department of Physiology Western Gateway Building University College Cork Cork Ireland
| | - E. J. Johns
- Department of Physiology Western Gateway Building University College Cork Cork Ireland
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Koneru B, Bathina CS, Cherry BH, Mifflin SW. Mineralocorticoid receptor in the NTS stimulates saline intake during fourth ventricular infusions of aldosterone. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2013; 306:R61-6. [PMID: 24259463 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00434.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether neurons within the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) that express the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) play a role in aldosterone stimulation of salt intake. Adult Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats received microinjections into the NTS of a short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) for the MR, to site specifically reduce levels of the MR by RNA interference (shRNA; n = 9) or scrambled RNA as a control (scRNA; n = 8). After injection of the viral construct, aldosterone-filled osmotic minipumps were implanted subcutaneously and connected to a cannula extending into the fourth ventricle to infuse aldosterone at a rate of 25 ng/h. Before and after surgeries, rats had ad libitum access to normal sodium (0.26%) rat chow and two graduated drinking bottles filled with either distilled water or 0.3 M NaCl. Before the surgeries, basal saline intake was 1.6 ± 0.6 ml in the scRNA group and 1.56 ± 0.6 ml in the shRNA group. Twenty-four days postsurgery, saline intake was elevated to a greater extent in the scRNA group (5.9 ± 1.07 ml) than in the shRNA group (2.41 ± 0.6 ml). Post mortem immunohistochemistry revealed a significant reduction in the number of NTS neurons exhibiting immunoreactivity for MR in shRNA-injected rats (23 ± 1 cells/section) versus scRNA-injected rats (33 ± 2 cells/section; P = 0.008). shRNA did not alter the level of 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II (HSD2) protein in the NTS as judged by the number of HSD2 immunoreactive neurons. These results suggest that fourth ventricular infusions of aldosterone stimulate saline intake, and that this stimulation is at least in part mediated by hindbrain NTS neurons that express MR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhuvaneswari Koneru
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
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Minic Z, O'Leary DS, Scislo TJ. Nucleus tractus solitarii A(2a) adenosine receptors inhibit cardiopulmonary chemoreflex control of sympathetic outputs. Auton Neurosci 2013; 180:32-42. [PMID: 24216055 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2013.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Revised: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 10/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Previously we have shown that stimulation of inhibitory A1 adenosine receptors located in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) attenuates cardiopulmonary chemoreflex (CCR) evoked inhibition of renal, adrenal and lumbar sympathetic nerve activity and reflex decreases in arterial pressure and heart rate. Activation of facilitatory A2a adenosine receptors, which dominate over A1 receptors in the NTS, contrastingly alters baseline activity of regional sympathetic outputs: it decreases renal, increases adrenal and does not change lumbar nerve activity. Considering that NTS A2a receptors may facilitate release of inhibitory transmitters we hypothesized that A2a receptors will act in concert with A1 receptors differentially inhibiting regional sympathetic CCR responses (adrenal>lumbar>renal). In urethane/chloralose anesthetized rats (n=38) we compared regional sympathetic responses evoked by stimulation of the CCR with right atrial injections of serotonin 5HT3 receptor agonist, phenylbiguanide, (1-8μg/kg) before and after selective stimulation, blockade or combined blockade and stimulation of NTS A2a adenosine receptors (microinjections into the NTS of CGS-21680 0.2-20pmol/50nl, ZM-241385 40pmol/100nl or ZM-241385+CGS-21680, respectively). We found that stimulation of A2a adenosine receptors uniformly inhibited the regional sympathetic and hemodynamic reflex responses and this effect was abolished by the selective blockade of NTS A2a receptors. This indicates that A2a receptor triggered inhibition of CCR responses and the contrasting shifts in baseline sympathetic activity are mediated via different mechanisms. These data implicate that stimulation of NTS A2a receptors triggers unknown inhibitory mechanism(s) which in turn inhibit transmission in the CCR pathway when adenosine is released into the NTS during severe hypotension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeljka Minic
- Department of Physiology and Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, United States
| | - Donal S O'Leary
- Department of Physiology and Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, United States
| | - Tadeusz J Scislo
- Department of Physiology and Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, United States.
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Ichinose TK, Minic Z, Li C, O'Leary DS, Scislo TJ. Activation of NTS A(1) adenosine receptors inhibits regional sympathetic responses evoked by activation of cardiopulmonary chemoreflex. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2012; 303:R539-50. [PMID: 22814665 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00164.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Previously we have shown that adenosine operating via the A(1) receptor subtype may inhibit glutamatergic transmission in the baroreflex arc within the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and differentially increase renal (RSNA), preganglionic adrenal (pre-ASNA), and lumbar (LSNA) sympathetic nerve activity (ASNA>RSNA≥LSNA). Since the cardiopulmonary chemoreflex and the arterial baroreflex are mediated via similar medullary pathways, and glutamate is a primary transmitter in both pathways, it is likely that adenosine operating via A(1) receptors in the NTS may differentially inhibit regional sympathetic responses evoked by activation of cardiopulmonary chemoreceptors. Therefore, in urethane-chloralose-anesthetized rats (n = 37) we compared regional sympathoinhibition evoked by the cardiopulmonary chemoreflex (activated with right atrial injections of serotonin 5HT(3) receptor agonist phenylbiguanide, PBG, 1-8 μg/kg) before and after selective stimulation of NTS A(1) adenosine receptors [microinjections of N(6)-cyclopentyl adenosine (CPA), 0.033-330 pmol/50 nl]. Activation of cardiopulmonary chemoreceptors evoked differential, dose-dependent sympathoinhibition (RSNA>ASNA>LSNA), and decreases in arterial pressure and heart rate. These differential sympathetic responses were uniformly attenuated in dose-dependent manner by microinjections of CPA into the NTS. Volume control (n = 11) and blockade of adenosine receptor subtypes in the NTS via 8-(p-sulfophenyl)theophylline (8-SPT, 1 nmol in 100 nl) (n = 9) did not affect the reflex responses. We conclude that activation of NTS A(1) adenosine receptors uniformly inhibits neural and cardiovascular cardiopulmonary chemoreflex responses. A(1) adenosine receptors have no tonic modulatory effect on this reflex under normal conditions. However, when adenosine is released into the NTS (i.e., during stress or severe hypotension/ischemia), it may serve as negative feedback regulator for depressor and sympathoinhibitory reflexes integrated in the NTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko K Ichinose
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine Detroit, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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Lin LH, Nitschke Dragon D, Jin J, Tian X, Chu Y, Sigmund C, Talman WT. Decreased expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase in the nucleus tractus solitarii inhibits sympathetically mediated baroreflex responses in rat. J Physiol 2012; 590:3545-59. [PMID: 22687614 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.237966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite numerous studies it remains controversial whether nitric oxide (NO·) synthesized by neuronal NOS (nNOS) plays an excitatory or inhibitory role in transmission of baroreflex signals in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS). In the current studies we sought to test the hypothesis that nNOS is involved in excitation of baroreflex pathways in NTS while excluding pharmacological interventions in assessing the influence of nNOS. We therefore developed, validated and utilized a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) to reduce expression of nNOS in the NTS of rats whose baroreflex activity was then studied. We demonstrate downregulation of nNOS through transduction with adeno-associated virus type 2 (AAV2) carrying shRNA for nNOS. When injected bilaterally into NTS AAV2nNOSshRNA significantly reduced reflex tachycardic responses to acute hypotension while not affecting reflex bradycardic responses to acute increases of arterial pressure. Control animals treated with intravenous propranolol to block sympathetically mediated chronotropic responses manifested the same baroreflex responses as animals that had been treated with AAV2nNOSshRNA. Neither AAV2 eGFP nor AAV2nNOScDNA affected baroreflex responses. Blocking cardiac vagal influences with atropine similarly reduced baroreflex-mediated bradycardic responses to increases in arterial pressure both in control animals and in those treated with AAV2nNOSshRNA. We conclude that NO· synthesized by nNOS in the NTS is integral to excitation of baroreflex pathways involved in reflex tachycardia, a largely sympathetically mediated response, but not reflex bradycardia, a largely parasympathetically mediated response. We suggest that, at the basal state, nNOS is maximally engaged. Thus, its upregulation does not augment the baroreflex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Hsien Lin
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Neurology, Roy and Lucille Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Schwab M, Coksaygan T, Rakers F, Nathanielsz PW. Glucocorticoid exposure of sheep at 0.7 to 0.75 gestation augments late-gestation fetal stress responses. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2012; 206:253.e16-22. [PMID: 22192534 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2011.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2011] [Revised: 10/24/2011] [Accepted: 11/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Exposure to glucocorticoid levels inappropriately high for current maturation alters fetal hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPAA) development. In an established fetal sheep model, we determined whether clinical betamethasone doses used to accelerate fetal lung maturation have persistent effects on fetal HPAA hypotensive-stress responses. STUDY DESIGN Pregnant ewes received saline (n = 6) or betamethasone (n = 6); 2 × 110 μg/kg body weight doses injected 24 hours apart (106/107 and 112/113 days' gestational age, term 150 days). Basal adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and cortisol and responses to fetal hypotension were measured before and 5 days after the first course and 14 days after the second course. RESULTS Basal ACTH and cortisol were similar with treatment. HPAA responses to hypotension increased after the second but not first course and ACTH/cortisol ratio increased indicating central HPAA effects. CONCLUSIONS Results demonstrate latency in the emergence of fetal HPAA hyperresponsiveness following betamethasone exposure that may explain hyperresponsiveness in full-term but not preterm neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Schwab
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany.
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Yen DHT, Chen LC, Shen YC, Chiu YC, Ho IC, Lou YJ, Chen IC, Yen JC. Protein kinase A-dependent neuronal nitric oxide synthase activation mediates the enhancement of baroreflex response by adrenomedullin in the nucleus tractus solitarii of rats. J Biomed Sci 2011; 18:32. [PMID: 21595896 PMCID: PMC3115842 DOI: 10.1186/1423-0127-18-32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adrenomedullin (ADM) exerts its biological functions through the receptor-mediated enzymatic mechanisms that involve protein kinase A (PKA), or neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). We previously demonstrated that the receptor-mediated cAMP/PKA pathway involves in ADM-enhanced baroreceptor reflex (BRR) response. It remains unclear whether ADM may enhance BRR response via activation of nNOS-dependent mechanism in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS). Methods Intravenous injection of phenylephrine was administered to evoke the BRR before and at 10, 30, and 60 min after microinjection of the test agents into NTS of Sprague-Dawley rats. Western blotting analysis was used to measure the level and phosphorylation of proteins that involved in BRR-enhancing effects of ADM (0.2 pmol) in NTS. The colocalization of PKA and nNOS was examined by immunohistochemical staining and observed with a laser confocal microscope. Results We found that ADM-induced enhancement of BRR response was blunted by microinjection of NPLA or Rp-8-Br-cGMP, a selective inhibitor of nNOS or protein kinase G (PKG) respectively, into NTS. Western blot analysis further revealed that ADM induced an increase in the protein level of PKG-I which could be attenuated by co-microinjection with the ADM receptor antagonist ADM22-52 or NPLA. Moreover, we observed an increase in phosphorylation at Ser1416 of nNOS at 10, 30, and 60 min after intra-NTS administration of ADM. As such, nNOS/PKG signaling may also account for the enhancing effect of ADM on BRR response. Interestingly, biochemical evidence further showed that ADM-induced increase of nNOS phosphorylation was prevented by co-microinjection with Rp-8-Br-cAMP, a PKA inhibitor. The possibility of PKA-dependent nNOS activation was substantiated by immunohistochemical demonstration of co-localization of PKA and nNOS in putative NTS neurons. Conclusions The novel finding of this study is that the signal transduction cascade that underlies the enhancement of BRR response by ADM in NTS is composed sequentially of cAMP/PKA and nNOS/PKG pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H T Yen
- Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Hirooka Y, Kishi T, Sakai K, Takeshita A, Sunagawa K. Imbalance of central nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species in the regulation of sympathetic activity and neural mechanisms of hypertension. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2011; 300:R818-26. [PMID: 21289238 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00426.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) play important roles in blood pressure regulation via the modulation of the autonomic nervous system, particularly in the central nervous system (CNS). In general, accumulating evidence suggests that NO inhibits, but ROS activates, the sympathetic nervous system. NO and ROS, however, interact with each other. Our consecutive studies and those of others strongly indicate that an imbalance between NO bioavailability and ROS generation in the CNS, including the brain stem, activates the sympathetic nervous system, and this mechanism is involved in the pathogenesis of neurogenic aspects of hypertension. In this review, we focus on the role of NO and ROS in the regulation of the sympathetic nervous system within the brain stem and subsequent cardiovascular control. Multiple mechanisms are proposed, including modulation of neurotransmitter release, inhibition of receptors, and alterations of intracellular signaling pathways. Together, the evidence indicates that an imbalance of NO and ROS in the CNS plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Hirooka
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Fukuoka, Japan.
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Durand MDT, Castania JA, Fazan R, Salgado MCO, Salgado HC. Hemodynamic responses to aortic depressor nerve stimulation in conscious l-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2011; 300:R418-27. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00463.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated whether baroreflex control of autonomic function is impaired when there is a deficiency in NO production and the role of adrenergic and cholinergic mechanisms in mediating reflex responses. Electrical stimulation of the aortic depressor nerve in conscious normotensive and nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME)-induced hypertensive rats was applied before and after administration of methylatropine, atenolol, and prazosin alone or in combination. The hypotensive response to progressive electrical stimulation (5 to 90 Hz) was greater in hypertensive (−27 ± 2 to −64 ± 3 mmHg) than in normotensive rats (−17 ± 1 to −46 ± 2 mmHg), whereas the bradycardic response was similar in both groups (−34 ± 5 to −92 ± 9 and −21 ± 2 to −79 ± 7 beats/min, respectively). Methylatropine and atenolol showed no effect in the hypotensive response in either group. Methylatropine blunted the bradycardic response in both groups, whereas atenolol attenuated only in hypertensive rats. Prazosin blunted the hypotensive response in both normotensive (43%) and hypertensive rats (53%) but did not affect the bradycardic response in either group. Prazosin plus angiotensin II, used to restore basal arterial pressure, provided hemodynamic responses similar to those of prazosin alone. The triple pharmacological blockade abolished the bradycardic response in both groups but displayed similar residual hypotensive response in hypertensive (−13 ± 2 to −27 ± 2 mmHg) and normotensive rats (−10 ± 1 to −25 ± 3 mmHg). In conclusion, electrical stimulation produced a well-preserved baroreflex-mediated decrease in arterial pressure and heart rate in conscious l-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. Moreover, withdrawal of the sympathetic drive played a role in the reflex bradycardia only in hypertensive rats. The residual fall in pressure after the triple pharmacological blockade suggests the involvement of a vasodilatory mechanism unrelated to NO or deactivation of α1-adrenergic receptor.
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Nicotine activation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase and guanylyl cyclase in the medulla increases blood flow of the common carotid artery in cats. Neurosci Lett 2010; 486:122-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2010.08.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2010] [Revised: 07/30/2010] [Accepted: 08/25/2010] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Nogueira MC, Haibara AS, Borges EL. Effect of l-NAME microinjected into the nucleus tractus solitarius on jejunal glucose and electrolyte absorption in anesthetized rats. Brain Res 2010; 1359:107-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2010.08.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2010] [Revised: 08/20/2010] [Accepted: 08/24/2010] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Hsieh HY, Robertson CL, Vermehren-Schmaedick A, Balkowiec A. Nitric oxide regulates BDNF release from nodose ganglion neurons in a pattern-dependent and cGMP-independent manner. J Neurosci Res 2010; 88:1285-97. [PMID: 19937808 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.22291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Activity of arterial baroreceptors is modulated by neurohumoral factors, including nitric oxide (NO), released from endothelial cells. Baroreceptor reflex responses can also be modulated by NO signaling in the brainstem nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), the primary central target of cardiovascular afferents. Our recent studies indicate that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is abundantly expressed by developing and adult baroreceptor afferents in vivo, and released from cultured nodose ganglion (NG) neurons by patterns of baroreceptor activity. Using electrical field stimulation and ELISA in situ, we show that exogenous NO nearly abolishes BDNF release from newborn rat NG neurons in vitro stimulated with single pulses delivered at 6 Hz, but not 2-pulse bursts delivered at the same 6-Hz frequency, that corresponds to a rat heart rate. Application of L-NAME, a specific inhibitor of endogenous NO synthases, does not have any significant effect on activity-dependent BDNF release, but leads to upregulation of BDNF expression in an activity-dependent manner. The latter effect suggests a novel mechanism of homeostatic regulation of activity-dependent BDNF expression with endogenous NO as a key player. The exogenous NO-mediated effect does not involve the cGMP-protein kinase G (PKG) pathway, but is largely inhibited by N-ethylmaleimide and TEMPOL that are known to prevent S-nitrosylation. Together, our current data identify previously unknown mechanisms regulating BDNF availability, and point to NO as a likely regulator of BDNF at baroafferent synapses in the NTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-ya Hsieh
- Department of Integrative Biosciences, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA
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Chen JS, Wang HJ, Chang WC, Jao CC, Wu BT, Shyu WC, Lee SD. Altered nitroxidergic and NMDA receptor-mediated modulation of baroreflex-mediated heart rate in obese Zucker rats. Hypertens Res 2010; 33:932-6. [DOI: 10.1038/hr.2010.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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22
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Nitric oxide inhibits excitatory vagal afferent input to nucleus tractus solitarius neurons in anaesthetized rats. Neurosci Bull 2010; 25:325-34. [PMID: 19927168 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-009-0624-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endogenous nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated in the regulation of neuronal activity which mediates cardiovascular reflexes. However, there is controversy concerning the role of NO in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS). The present study aims to elucidate the possible physiological role of endogenous NO in modulating the excitatory vagal afferent input to NTS neurons. METHODS All the experiments in the rat were conducted under anaesthetic conditions. Ionophoresis method was used for the application of NO donor or nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, and single unit recording method was employed to detect the effects of these applications on vagal afferent- or cardio-pulmonary C-fibre reflex-evoked neuronal excitation in NTS. RESULTS Ionophoresis applications of L-arginine (L-Arg), a substrate of NOS, and sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a NO donor, both attenuated the vagal afferent-evoked discharge by (51.5+/-7.6)% (n = 17) and (68.3+/-7.1)% (n = 9), respectively. In contrast, application of D-Arg at the same current exerted no overall effect on this input. Also, both L-Arg and SNP inhibited spontaneous firing of most of the recorded neurons. In contrast, ionophoresis application of N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) enhanced vagal afferent-evoked excitation by (66.3+/-11.4)% (n = 7). In addition, ionophoresis application of L-Arg and SNP significantly attenuated cardio-pulmonary C-fibre reflex-induced excitation in the tested NTS neurons. CONCLUSION Activation of local NO pathway in the NTS could suppress vagal afferent-evoked excitation, suggesting that NO is an important neuromodulator of visceral sensory input in the NTS.
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Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) functions at all levels of the autonomic nervous system to influence sympathetic and parasympathetic control of cardiovascular function. It modulates the excitability of peripheral sensory and motor neurons of cardiovascular reflexes and the central neurons that integrate their function. Its effects within this system are diverse and site specific and are (at many levels) not well defined. However, most evidence suggests that the neuromodulator's influence acts to restrain sympathetic outflow and facilitate parasympathetic outflow. In chronic heart failure, these functional effects of NO are impaired or downregulated and contribute to the state of sympathetic overactivation and parasympathetic deactivation characterized by the disease. The cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating NO production and signaling in the autonomic nervous system in the normal and chronic heart failure state are summarized and discussed in light of their therapeutic implications. This review also emphasizes questions of regulation of NO function in the autonomic nervous system that remain unresolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold D Schultz
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985850 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
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Granjeiro EM, Pajolla GP, Accorsi-Mendonça D, Machado BH. Interaction of purinergic and nitrergic mechanisms in the caudal nucleus tractus solitarii of rats. Auton Neurosci 2009; 151:117-26. [PMID: 19716350 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2009.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2009] [Revised: 07/06/2009] [Accepted: 07/28/2009] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The interaction of purinergic and nitrergic mechanisms was evaluated in the caudal nucleus tractus solitarii (cNTS) using awake animals and brainstem slices. In awake animals, ATP (1.25 nmol/50 nL) was microinjected into the cNTS before and after the microinjection of a selective neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) inhibitor N-propyl-l-arginine (NPLA, 3 pmoles/50 nL, n=8) or vehicle (saline, n=4), and cardiovascular and ventilatory parameters were recorded. In brainstem slices from a distinct group of rats, the effects of ATP on the NO concentration in the cNTS using the fluorescent dye DAF-2 DA were evaluated. For this purpose brainstem slices (150 microm) containing the cNTS were pre-incubated with ATP (500 microM; n=8) before and during DAF-2 DA loading. Microinjection of ATP into the cNTS increases the arterial pressure (AP), respiratory frequency (f(R)) and minute ventilation (V(E)), which were significantly reduced by pretreatment with N-PLA, a selective nNOS inhibitor (AP: 39+/-3 vs 16+/-14 mm Hg; f(R): 75+/-14 vs 4+/-3 cpm; V(E): 909+/-159 vs 77+/-39 mL kg(-1) m(-1)). The effects of ATP in the cNTS were not affected by microinjection of saline. ATP significantly increased the NO fluorescence in the cNTS (62+/-7 vs 101+/-10 AU). The data show that in the cNTS: a) the NO production is increased by ATP; b) NO formation by nNOS is involved in the cardiovascular and ventilatory responses to microinjection of ATP. Taken together, these data suggest an interaction of purinergic and nitrergic mechanisms in the cNTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica M Granjeiro
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Lemus M, Montero S, Luquín S, García J, De Alvarez-Buylla ER. Nitric oxide in the solitary tract nucleus (STn) modulates glucose homeostasis and FOS-ir expression after carotid chemoreceptor stimulation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2009; 648:403-10. [PMID: 19536505 DOI: 10.1007/978-90-481-2259-2_46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We evaluate in rats the role of NO in the solitary tract nucleus (STn) after an anoxic stimulus to carotid body chemoreceptor cells (CChrc) with cyanide (NaCN), on the hyperglycemic reflex with glucose retention by the brain (BGR) and FOS expression (FOS-ir) in the STn. The results suggest that nitroxidergic pathways in the STn may play an important role in glucose homeostasis. A NO donor such as sodium nitroprusside (NPS) in the STn before CChrc stimulation increased arterial glucose level and significantly decreased BGR. NPS also induced a higher FOS-ir expression in STn neurons when compared to neurons in control rats that only received artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) before CChrc stimulation. In contrast, a selective NOS inhibitor such as Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) in the STn before CChrc stimulation resulted in an increase of both, systemic glucose and BGR above control values. In this case, the number of FOS-ir positive neurons in the STn decreased when compared to control or to NPS experiments. FOS-ir expression in brainstem cells suggests that CChrc stimulation activates nitroxidergic pathways in the STn to regulate peripheral and central glucose homeostasis. The study of these functionally defined cells will be important to understand brain glucose homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Lemus
- Centro Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad de Colima, Colima, Col. 28045, Mexico
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26
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Pajolla GP, Accorsi-Mendonça D, Rodrigues GJ, Bendhack LM, Machado BH, Lunardi CN. Fluorescent indication that nitric oxide formation in NTS neurons is modulated by glutamate and GABA. Nitric Oxide 2009; 20:207-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2009.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Granjeiro ÉM, Machado BH. NO in the caudal NTS modulates the increase in respiratory frequency in response to chemoreflex activation in awake rats. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2009; 166:32-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2009.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2008] [Revised: 12/16/2008] [Accepted: 01/13/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Gwathmey TM, Shaltout HA, Pendergrass KD, Pirro NT, Figueroa JP, Rose JC, Diz DI, Chappell MC. Nuclear angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptors are functionally linked to nitric oxide production. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2009; 296:F1484-93. [PMID: 19244399 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.90766.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Expression of nuclear angiotensin II type 1 (AT(1)) receptors in rat kidney provides further support for the concept of an intracellular renin-angiotensin system. Thus we examined the cellular distribution of renal ANG II receptors in sheep to determine the existence and functional roles of intracellular ANG receptors in higher order species. Receptor binding was performed using the nonselective ANG II antagonist (125)I-[Sar(1),Thr(8)]-ANG II ((125)I-sarthran) with the AT(1) antagonist losartan (LOS) or the AT(2) antagonist PD123319 (PD) in isolated nuclei (NUC) and plasma membrane (PM) fractions obtained by differential centrifugation or density gradient separation. In both fetal and adult sheep kidney, PD competed for the majority of cortical NUC (> or =70%) and PM (> or =80%) sites while LOS competition predominated in medullary NUC (> or =75%) and PM (> or =70%). Immunodetection with an AT(2) antibody revealed a single approximately 42-kDa band in both NUC and PM extracts, suggesting a mature molecular form of the NUC receptor. Autoradiography for receptor subtypes localized AT(2) in the tubulointerstitium, AT(1) in the medulla and vasa recta, and both AT(1) and AT(2) in glomeruli. Loading of NUC with the fluorescent nitric oxide (NO) detector DAF showed increased NO production with ANG II (1 nM), which was abolished by PD and N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, but not LOS. Our studies demonstrate ANG II receptor subtypes are differentially expressed in ovine kidney, while nuclear AT(2) receptors are functionally linked to NO production. These findings provide further evidence of a functional intracellular renin-angiotensin system within the kidney, which may represent a therapeutic target for the regulation of blood pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya M Gwathmey
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest Univ. School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
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Carlson SH, Wyss JM. Neurohormonal regulation of the sympathetic nervous system: new insights into central mechanisms of action. Curr Hypertens Rep 2009; 10:233-40. [PMID: 18765096 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-008-0044-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
To regulate blood pressure, the brain controls circulating hormones, which influence the brain by binding to brain neurons that lie outside the blood-brain barrier. Recent work has demonstrated that "cardiovascular" hormones are synthesized and released in the brain as neurotransmitters/neuromodulators and can, in some cases, signal through the blood-brain barrier. The renin-angiotensin system is a prototype for these newly appreciated mechanisms. The brain's intrinsic renin-angiotensin system plays an important role in blood pressure control. Angiotensin II in brain neurons affects other neurons both through activation of angiotensin receptors and via generation of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen molecules. Similarly, angiotensin in blood vessels activates endothelial nitric oxide, which can diffuse across the blood-brain barrier and thereby alter neuronal activity in cardiovascular control nuclei. The relative importance of these mechanisms to blood pressure control remains to be fully elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott H Carlson
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1900 University Boulevard, THT 950, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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Li G, Abdel-Rahman AA. Estrogen-dependent enhancement of NO production in the nucleus tractus solitarius contributes to ethanol-induced hypotension in conscious female rats. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2008; 33:366-74. [PMID: 19076118 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2008.00845.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our previous pharmacological and cellular studies showed that peripheral (cardiac and vascular) nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-derived NO is implicated in the estrogen (E(2))-dependent hypotensive action of ethanol in female rats. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that enhanced NO production in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) is implicated in the E(2)-dependent hypotensive action of ethanol. METHODS To achieve this goal, we utilized in vivo electrochemistry to measure real time changes in neuronal NO to investigate the acute effects of intragastric ethanol (0, 0.5, or 1 g/kg) on NO in NTS neurons, blood pressure (BP), and heart rate (HR) in conscious female rats in the absence (ovariectomized, OVX, rats) or presence of E(2). RESULTS In sham operated (SO) rats, ethanol elicited dose-related increase in NTS NO and reduction in BP. These neurochemical and BP effects of ethanol were absent in OVX rats. Whether the neurochemical effect of ethanol and the associated hypotension are dependent on rapid E(2) signaling was investigated. In OVX rats pretreated, 30 minutes earlier, with E(2) (1 microg/kg), intragastric ethanol (1 g/kg) increased NTS NO and reduced BP and these responses were comparable to those obtained in SO rats. CONCLUSIONS The present findings suggest that increased production of NO in NTS neurons contributes to ethanol-evoked hypotension in female rats. Further, ethanol enhancement of neuronal NO production in the brainstem is dependent on rapid E(2) signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guichu Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
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da Silva LG, Dias ACR, Furlan E, Colombari E. Nitric oxide modulates the cardiovascular effects elicited by acetylcholine in the NTS of awake rats. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2008; 295:R1774-81. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00559.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Microinjection of acetylcholine chloride (ACh) in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) of awake rats caused a transient and dose-dependent hypotension and bradycardia. Because it is known that cardiovascular reflexes are affected by nitric oxide (NO) produced in the NTS, we investigated whether these ACh-induced responses depend on NO in the NTS. Responses to ACh (500 pmol in 100 nl) were strongly reduced by ipsilateral microinjection of the NOS inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME; 10 nmol in 100 nl) in the NTS: mean arterial pressure (MAP) fell by 50 ± 5 mmHg before l-NAME to 9 ± 4 mmHg, 10 min after l-NAME, and HR fell by 100 ± 26 bpm before l-NAME to 20 ± 10 bpm, 10 min after l-NAME (both P < 0.05). Microinjection of the selective inhibitor of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), 1-(2-trifluoromethylphenyl) imidazole (TRIM; 13.3 nmol in 100 nl), in the NTS also reduced responses to ACh: MAP fell from 42 ± 3 mmHg before TRIM to 27 ± 6 mmHg, 10 min after TRIM ( P < 0.05). TRIM also tended to reduce ACh-induced bradycardia, but this effect was not statistically significant. ACh-induced hypotension and bradycardia returned to control levels 30–45 min after NOS inhibition. Control injections with d-NAME and saline did not affect resting values or the response to ACh. In conclusion, injection of ACh into the NTS of conscious rats induces hypotension and bradycardia, and these effects may be mediated at least partly by NO produced in NTS neurons.
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Austgen JR, Fong AY, Foley CM, Mueller PJ, Kline DD, Heesch CM, Hasser EM. Expression of Group I metabotropic glutamate receptors on phenotypically different cells within the nucleus of the solitary tract in the rat. Neuroscience 2008; 159:701-16. [PMID: 19013221 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.09.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2007] [Revised: 09/09/2008] [Accepted: 09/30/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are G-coupled receptors that modulate synaptic activity. Previous studies have shown that Group I mGluRs are present in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), in which many visceral afferents terminate. Microinjection of selective Group I mGluR agonists into the NTS results in a depressor response and decrease in sympathetic nerve activity. There is, however, little evidence detailing which phenotypes of neurons within the NTS express Group I mGluRs. In brainstem slices, we performed immunohistochemical localization of Group I mGluRs and either glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 kDa isoform (GAD67), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) or tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). Fluoro-Gold (FG, 2%; 15 nl) was microinjected in the caudal ventrolateral medulla (CVLM) of the rat to retrogradely label NTS neurons that project to CVLM. Group I mGluRs were distributed throughout the rostral-caudal extent of the NTS and were found within most NTS subregions. The relative percentages of Group I mGluR expressing neurons colabeled with the different markers were FG (6.9+/-0.7) nNOS (5.6+/-0.9), TH (3.9+/-1.0), and GAD67 (3.1+/-1.4). The percentage of FG containing cells colabeled with Group I mGluR (13.6+/-2.0) was greater than the percent colabeled with GAD67 (3.1+/-0.5), nNOS (4.7+/-0.5), and TH (0.1+/-0.08). Cells triple labeled for FG, nNOS, and Group I mGluRs were identified in the NTS. Thus, these data provide an anatomical substrate by which Group I mGluRs could modulate activity of CVLM projecting neurons in the NTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Austgen
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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Nozoe M, Hirooka Y, Koga Y, Sagara Y, Kishi T, Engelhardt JF, Sunagawa K. Inhibition of Rac1-derived reactive oxygen species in nucleus tractus solitarius decreases blood pressure and heart rate in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats. Hypertension 2007; 50:62-8. [PMID: 17515454 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.107.087981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the brain are thought to contribute to the neuropathogenesis of hypertension by enhancing sympathetic nervous system activity. The nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), which receives afferent input from baroreceptors, has an important role in cardiovascular regulation. reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase is thought to be a major source of ROS in the NTS. Rac1 is a small G protein and a key component of reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase. The role of Rac1-derived ROS in the NTS in cardiovascular regulation of hypertension is unknown. Therefore, we examined whether inhibition of Rac1 in the NTS decreases ROS generation, thereby reducing blood pressure in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSPs). The basal Rac1 activity level in the NTS was greater in SHRSPs than in Wistar-Kyoto rats. Inhibition of Rac1, induced by transfecting adenovirus vectors encoding dominant-negative Rac1 into the NTS, decreased blood pressure, heart rate, and urinary norepinephrine excretion in SHRSPs but not in Wistar-Kyoto rats. Inhibition of Rac1 also reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activity and ROS generation. In addition, Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase activity in the NTS of SHRSPs was decreased compared with that of Wistar-Kyoto rats, despite the increased ROS generation. Overexpression of Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase in the NTS decreased blood pressure and heart rate in SHRSPs. These results indicate that the activation of Rac1 in the NTS generates ROS via reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase in SHRSPs, and this mechanism might be important for the neuropathogenesis of hypertension in SHRSPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatsugu Nozoe
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Japan
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Giles TD. Aspects of nitric oxide in health and disease: a focus on hypertension and cardiovascular disease. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich) 2007; 8:2-16. [PMID: 17170602 PMCID: PMC8109738 DOI: 10.1111/j.1524-6175.2006.06023.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (nitrogen monoxide) (NO) plays an important role in a wide range of physiologic processes. A major mediator of endothelial function, NO regulates vasodilatory and antithrombotic actions in the vasculature and plays a role in reproductive functions, bronchodilation, bone formation, memory, insulin sensitivity, and gastrointestinal relaxation. NO is formed from NO synthase. Impaired NO bioactivity is strongly associated with endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease, but is also implicated in a broad range of other disorders, including pulmonary hypertension, insulin resistance, erectile dysfunction, and preeclampsia. Numerous therapies designed to target NO are being investigated and developed, including NO donors and stimulants. The recent African-American Heart Failure Trial (A-HeFT) showed that the NO donor isosorbide dinitrate, combined with the vasodilator hydralazine, significantly reduced morbidity and mortality in black patients with moderate-to-severe heart failure. Antihypertensive drugs, including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and third-generation beta-blockers, are NO stimulants that have demonstrated significant improvement of endothelial function and NO bioactivity. Other cardiovascular therapies that may improve NO bioactivity include statins, l-arginine, and nonpharmacologic approaches such as exercise and dietary changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D Giles
- Division of Cardiology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA.
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Daubert DL, Liu D, Zucker IH, Brooks VL. Roles of nitric oxide and angiotensin II in the impaired baroreflex gain of pregnancy. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2007; 292:R2179-87. [PMID: 17379846 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00026.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study tested the hypothesis that nitric oxide (NO) contributes to impaired baroreflex gain of pregnancy and that this action is enhanced by angiotensin II. To test these hypotheses, we quantified baroreflex control of heart rate in nonpregnant and pregnant conscious rabbits before and after: 1) blockade of NO synthase (NOS) with Nomega-nitro-L-arginine (20 mg/kg iv); 2) blockade of the angiotensin II AT1 receptor with L-158,809 (5 microg x kg(-1) x min(-1) iv); 3) infusion of angiotensin II (1 ng x kg(-1) x min(-1) nonpregnant, 1.6-4 ng x kg(-1) x min(-1) pregnant iv); 4) combined blockade of angiotensin II AT(1) receptors and NOS; and 5) combined infusion of angiotensin II and blockade of NOS. To determine the potential role of brain neuronal NOS (nNOS), mRNA and protein levels were measured in the paraventricular nucleus, nucleus of the solitary tract, caudal ventrolateral medulla, and rostral ventrolateral medulla in pregnant and nonpregnant rabbits. The decrease in baroreflex gain observed in pregnant rabbits (from 23.3 +/- 3.6 to 7.1 +/- 0.9 beats x min(-1) x mmHg(-1), P < 0.05) was not reversed by NOS blockade (to 8.3 +/- 2.5 beats x min(-1) x mmHg(-1)), angiotensin II blockade (to 5.0 +/- 1.1 beats x min(-1) x mmHg(-1)), or combined blockade (to 12.3 +/- 4.8 beats x min(-1) x mmHg(-1)). Angiotensin II infusion with (to 5.7 +/- 1.0 beats x min(-1) x mmHg(-1)) or without (to 8.4 +/- 2.4 beats x min(-1) x mmHg(-1)) NOS blockade also failed to improve baroreflex gain in pregnant or nonpregnant rabbits. In addition, nNOS mRNA and protein levels in cardiovascular brain regions were not different between nonpregnant and pregnant rabbits. Therefore, we conclude that NO, either alone or via an interaction with angiotensin II, is not responsible for decrease in baroreflex gain during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy L Daubert
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA
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Wang S, Paton JFR, Kasparov S. Differential sensitivity of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission to modulation by nitric oxide in rat nucleus tractus solitarii. Exp Physiol 2007; 92:371-82. [PMID: 17138620 DOI: 10.1113/expphysiol.2006.036103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) is a key central link in control of multiple homeostatic reflexes. A number of studies have demonstrated that exogenous and endogenous nitric oxide (NO) within NTS regulates visceral function, but further understanding of the role of NO in the NTS is hampered by the lack of information about its intracellular actions. We studied effects of NO in acute rat brainstem slices. Aqueous NO solution (NO(aq)) potentiated electrically evoked excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs and IPSPs, respectively) in different neuronal subpopulations and, in some neurones, caused a depolarization. Similar effects were observed using the NO donor diethylamine NONOate (DEA/NO). The threshold NO concentration as determined using an NO electrochemical sensor was estimated as approximately 0.4 nm (EC(50) approximately 0.9 nm) for potentiating glutamatergic EPSPs but approximately 3 nm for monosynaptic GABAergic IPSPs. Bath application of the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) inhibitor 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) abolished NO(aq)- and DEA/NO-induced potentiation of evoked EPSPs, IPSPs and depolarization. All NO actions were mimicked by the non-NO-dependent guanylate cyclase activator Bay 41-2272. The effects of NO on EPSPs and IPSPs persisted in cells where postsynaptic sGC was blocked by ODQ and therefore were presynaptic, owing to a direct modulation of transmitter release combined with depolarization of presynaptic neurones. Therefore, while lower concentrations of NO may be important for fine tuning of glutamatergic transmission, higher concentrations are required to directly engage GABAergic inhibition. This differential sensitivity of excitatory and inhibitory connections to NO may be important for determining the specificity of the effects of this freely diffusible gaseous messenger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, Bristol Heart Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
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Waki H, Murphy D, Yao ST, Kasparov S, Paton JFR. Endothelial NO Synthase Activity in Nucleus Tractus Solitarii Contributes to Hypertension in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats. Hypertension 2006; 48:644-50. [PMID: 16940227 DOI: 10.1161/01.hyp.0000238200.46085.c6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
NO is implicated as a major modulator of central nervous circuits regulating cardiovascular activity. Based on previous data, we hypothesized that overactivity of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) within the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) could contribute to the hypertension in the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR). Using real-time PCR, we found that endogenous eNOS mRNA was greater in the NTS of mature, but not juvenile prehypertensive SHRs compared with aged-matched Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats. To test the functional significance of this, we chronically blocked eNOS activity in the NTS in the adult SHR by in vivo adenoviral-mediated gene transfer of a dominant-negative form of eNOS; data were compared with WKY rats. This resulted in a fall in arterial pressure in the SHR but not WKY rats. In both rat strains, cardiac baroreceptor reflex gain and the high-frequency spectral component of heart rate variability increased. Thus, endogenous eNOS activity in the NTS plays a major role in determining the set point of arterial pressure in the SHR and contributes to maintaining high arterial blood pressure in this animal model of human hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidefumi Waki
- Department of Physiology, Bristol Heart Institute, School of Medical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Kijima H, Shingai T, Takahashi Y, Kajii Y, Fukushima SI, Taguchi Y, Noda T, Yamada Y. Nitric oxide modulates elicitation of reflex swallowing from the pharynx in rats. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2006; 291:R651-6. [PMID: 16601262 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00646.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The pharynx is very important for elicitation of reflex swallowing. The region of the pharynx is innervated by the pharyngeal branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve (GPN-ph). Nitric oxide (NO) plays an important role in various physiological functions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the contribution of NO to reflex swallowing evoked by electrical stimulation of the GPN-ph. Swallowing was evoked in urethane-anesthetized rats by application of repetitive electrical stimulation (10- to 20-μA amplitude, 10- to 20-Hz frequency, 1.0-ms duration) to the central cut end of the GPN-ph or superior laryngeal nerve. Swallowing was identified by electromyographic activity of the mylohyoid muscle. Latency to the first swallow and the interval between swallows were measured. Intravenous administration of NG-nitro-l-arginine (l-NNA, 0.6 mg/kg), a nonselective inhibitor of NO synthase (NOS), extremely prolonged latency to the first swallow and the interval between swallows evoked by the GPN-ph. Intraperitoneal administration of 7-nitroindazole (5.0 mg/kg), a selective inhibitor of neuronal NOS, significantly prolonged latency to the first swallow and the interval between swallows evoked by the GPN-ph. Administration of l-arginine (an NO donor, 500 mg/kg) and sodium nitroprusside (an NO releaser, 0.6 mg/kg) restored the suppression of swallowing induced by the NOS inhibitor. Superior laryngeal nerve-evoked swallowing was suppressed by administration of a higher dose of l-NNA (6.0 mg/kg). Swallowing evoked by water stimulation of the pharynx was also suppressed by l-NNA (0.6 mg/kg). These results suggest that NO plays an important role in signal processing for initiation of reflex swallowing from the pharynx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kijima
- Division of Pediatric Dentistry, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 2-5274 Gakkocho-dori, Niigata 951-8514, Japan.
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Wang S, Teschemacher AG, Paton JFR, Kasparov S. Mechanism of nitric oxide action on inhibitory GABAergic signaling within the nucleus tractus solitarii. FASEB J 2006; 20:1537-9. [PMID: 16720728 DOI: 10.1096/fj.05-5547fje] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The cellular mechanisms mediating nitric oxide (NO) modulation of the inhibitory transmission in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) remain unclear, even though this could be extremely important for various physiological and pathological processes. Specifically, in the NTS NO-evoked glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) release might contribute to pathological hypertension. In cultured rat brainstem slices, NTS GABAergic neurons were targeted using an adenoviral vector to express enhanced green fluorescent protein and studied with a combination of patch clamp and confocal microscopy. Low nanomolar concentrations of NO increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in somata, dendrites, and putative axons of GABAergic neurons, with axons being the most sensitive compartment. This effect was cGMP mediated and not related to depolarization or indirect presynaptic effects on glutamatergic transmission. Blockade of the cyclic adenosine diphosphate ribose (cADPR)/ryanodine-sensitive stores but not the inositol triphosphate-sensitive stores, inhibited NO effect. Since cADPR/ryanodine-sensitive stores are implicated in the Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release, NO can be expected to potentiate GABA release. In support of this notion, a cADPR antagonist abolished the NO-induced potentiation of GABAergic inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in the NTS. Thus, the NO-cGMP-cADPR-Ca2+ pathway, previously described in sea urchin eggs, also operates in mammalian GABAergic neurons. Potentiation of GABA release by NO may have implications for numerous brain functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
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Carvalho THF, Lopes OU, Tolentino-Silva FR. Baroreflex responses in neuronal nitric oxide synthase knoukout mice (nNOS). Auton Neurosci 2006; 126-127:163-8. [PMID: 16713369 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2006.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2005] [Revised: 02/23/2006] [Accepted: 03/07/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The present study sought to determine the influence of the neuronal isoform of nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) on the baroreflex gain (mean index: bpm/mm Hg) and on the respiratory response to baroreflex activation by using nNOS knockout (nNOS-/-) mice. Experiments were performed with nNOS+/+ wild type (WT; n=12) and nNOS-/- mice (n=11), both of the C57Bl6 strain, randomly assigned to the two groups. Carotid artery and external jugular vein were cannulated under halothane, and after recuperation, urethane was intravenously injected. Baroreflex gain was evaluated by intravenous injection of phenylephrine (PE: 15-18 microg/kg) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP: 46-50 microg/kg) in WT and nNOS-/- anesthetized mice. At baseline, nNOS-/- mice had a comparable heart rate (604.5+/-23.6 vs. 618.7+/-11.2 bpm) but higher mean arterial pressure (112.4+/-6.3 vs. 94.8+/-3.9 mm Hg, P<0.05) than WT mice. Heart rate reflex was significantly reduced (P<0.05) in nNOS-/- mice, tachycardic and bradycardic responses were -1.04+/-0.3 and -2.03+/-0.5 in nNOS-/- mice vs. -4+/-0.7 and -4.52+/-0.2 in WT mice, respectively. To characterize the effect of arterial pressure changes on respiratory output, PE was injected in a separate group of WT (n=7) and nNOS-/- (n=6) mice. Tidal diaphragm activity decreased in WT mice (P<0.05); however, diaphragm minute respiration and respiratory frequency were not different between the strains of mice. In nNOS-/- group, heart rate reflex by PE injection was significantly reduced (P<0.05). These findings suggest that the absence of nNOS activity leads to an elevation of the baseline blood pressure and also shows the importance of this enzyme on the transmission of baroreflex signals.
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Abstract
In this review, we outline the application and contribution of transgenic technology to establishing the genetic basis of blood pressure regulation and its dysfunction. Apart from a small number of examples where high blood pressure is the result of single gene mutation, essential hypertension is the sum of interactions between multiple environmental and genetic factors. Candidate genes can be identified by a variety of means including linkage analysis, quantitative trait locus analysis, association studies, and genome-wide scans. To test the validity of candidate genes, it is valuable to model hypertension in laboratory animals. Animal models generated through selective breeding strategies are often complex, and the underlying mechanism of hypertension is not clear. A complementary strategy has been the use of transgenic technology. Here one gene can be selectively, tissue specifically, or developmentally overexpressed, knocked down, or knocked out. Although resulting phenotypes may still be complicated, the underlying genetic perturbation is a starting point for identifying interactions that lead to hypertension. We recognize that the development and maintenance of hypertension may involve many systems including the vascular, cardiac, and central nervous systems. However, given the central role of the kidney in normal and abnormal blood pressure regulation, we intend to limit our review to models with a broadly renal perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda J Mullins
- Molecular Physiology Laboratory, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Dias ACR, Colombari E. Central nitric oxide modulates hindquarter vasodilation elicited by AMPA receptor stimulation in the NTS of conscious rats. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2005; 290:R1330-6. [PMID: 16384860 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00150.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Microinjection of S-alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) of conscious rats causes hypertension, bradycardia, and vasoconstriction in the renal, mesenteric, and hindquarter vascular beds. In the hindquarter, the initial vasoconstriction is followed by vasodilation with AMPA doses >5 pmol/100 nl. To test the hypothesis that this vasodilation is caused by activation of a nitroxidergic pathway in the NTS, we examined the effect of pretreatment with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10 nmol/100 nl, microinjected into the NTS) on changes in mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and regional vascular conductance (VC) induced by microinjection of AMPA (10 pmol/100 nl in the NTS) in conscious rats. AMPA increased hindquarter VC by 18 +/- 4%, but after pretreatment with L-NAME, AMPA reduced hindquarter VC by 16 +/- 7% and 17 +/- 9% (5 and 15 min after pretreatment, P < 0.05 compared with before pretreatment). Pretreatment with L-NAME reduced AMPA-induced bradycardia from 122 +/- 40 to 92 +/- 32 beats/min but did not alter the hypertension induced by AMPA (35 +/- 5 mmHg before pretreatment, 43 +/- 6 mmHg after pretreatment). Control injections with D-NAME did not affect resting values or the response to AMPA. The present study shows that stimulation of AMPA receptors in the NTS activates both vasodilatatory and vasoconstrictor mechanisms and that the vasodilatatory mechanism depends on production of nitric oxide in the NTS.
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