Role of extracellular and intracellular acidosis for hypercapnia-induced inhibition of tension of isolated rat cerebral arteries

The Effects of Acidosis on eNOS in the Systemic Vasculature: A Focus on Early Postnatal Ontogenesis

The activity of many vasomotor signaling pathways strongly depends on extracellular/intracellular pH. Nitric oxide (NO) is one of the most important vasodilators produced by the endothelium. In this review, we present evidence that in most vascular beds of mature mammalian organisms metabolic or respiratory acidosis increases functional endothelial NO-synthase (eNOS) activity, despite the observation that direct effects of low pH on eNOS enzymatic activity are inhibitory. This can be explained by the fact that acidosis increases the activity of signaling pathways that positively regulate eNOS activity. The role of NO in the regulation of vascular tone is greater in early postnatal ontogenesis compared to adulthood. Importantly, in early postnatal ontogenesis acidosis also augments functional eNOS activity and its contribution to the regulation of arterial contractility. Therefore, the effect of acidosis on total peripheral resistance in neonates may be stronger than in adults and can be one of the reasons for an undesirable decrease in blood pressure during neonatal asphyxia. The latter, however, should be proven in future studies.

A molecular explanation of cardiovascular protection through abnormal cannabidiol: Involving the dysfunctional β-adrenergic and ATP-sensitive K+ channel activity in cardiovascular compromised preterm infants

Growing cannabis efficacy, usage frequency, legal supply, and declining awareness of danger recently led to expanded United States cannabis exposure. In turn, cannabis use among elderly people over 50 has more than tripled in a decade and has contributed toward a positive association of cannabis use with pathological conditions, which include type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome, neurovascular and cardiovascular disease. Remarkably, all these outcome results are mediated by the involvement of the ATP-sensitive K+ channel. Cardiovascular compromise is a common syndrome in preterm infants that leads to incidence and death and has been distinguished by poor systemic flow or hypotension. Conditions of cardiovascular compromise include vasodysregulation and myocardial malfunction through dysfunctional β-adrenergic activity. To avoid organ hypoperfusion progressing to tissue hypoxia-ischemia, inotropic drugs are used. Many premature children, however, respond insufficiently to inotropic activity with adrenergic agonists. The clinical disturbance including myocardial dysfunction through the activation of the ATP-sensitive K+ channel is often involved and the comparative efficacy of the nonpsychotropic cannabinoid, abnormal cannabidiol (Abn-CBD) is not yet known. Therefore, our primary aim was to investigate the molecular exploration of the cannabinoid system specifically Abn-CBD in cardiovascular protection involving dysregulated KATP.

Coronary hypercontractility to acidosis owes to the greater activity of TMEM16A/ANO1 in the arterial smooth muscle cells

BACKGROUND

Severe acidosis deteriorates cardiac injury. Rat coronary arteries (RCAs) are unusually hypercontractive to extracellular (o) acidosis (EA). TMEM16A-encoded anoctamin 1 (ANO1), a Ca²⁺-activated chloride channel (CaCC), plays an important role in regulating coronary arterial tension.

PURPOSE

We tested the possibility that the activation of CaCCs in the arterial smooth muscle cell (ASMC) contributes to EA-induced RCA constriction.

METHODS

ANO1 expression was detected with immunofluorescence staining and Western blot. TMEM16A mRNA was assessed with quantitative Real-Time PCR. Cl^- currents and membrane potentials were quantified with a patch clamp. The vascular tension was recorded with a myograph. Intracellular (i) level of Cl^- and Ca²⁺ was measured with fluorescent molecular probes.

RESULTS

ANO1 was expressed in all tested arterial myocytes, but was much more abundant in RCA ASMCs as compared with ASMCs isolated from rat cerebral basilar, intrarenal and mesenteric arteries. EA reduced [Cl^-]_i levels, augmented CaCC currents exclusively in RCA ASMCs and depolarized RCA ASMCs to a greater extent. Cl^- deprivation, which depleted [Cl^-]_i by incubating the arteries or their ASMCs in Cl^--free bath solution, decreased EA-induced [Cl^-]_i reduction, diminished EA-induced CaCC augmentation and time-dependently depressed EA-induced RCA constriction. Inhibitor studies showed that these EA-induced effects including RCA constriction, CaCC current augmentation, [Cl^-]_i reduction and/or [Ca²⁺]_i elevation were depressed by various Cl^- channel blockers, [Ca²⁺]_i release inhibitors and L-type voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channel inhibitor nifedipine. ANO1 antibody attenuated all observed changes induced by EA in RCA ASMCs.

CONCLUSION

The greater activity of RCA ASMC CaCCs complicated with an enhanced Ca²⁺ mobilization from both [Ca²⁺]_i release and [Ca²⁺]_o influx plays a pivotal role in the distinctive hypercontractility of RCAs to acidosis. Translation of these findings to human beings may lead to a new conception in our understanding and treating cardiac complications in severe acidosis.

A Brief Review of Brain's Blood Flow-Metabolism Coupling and Pressure Autoregulation

BACKGROUND

 The human brain, depending on aerobic glycolysis to cover its metabolic needs and having no energy reserves whatsoever, relies on a constant and closely regulated blood supply to maintain its structural and functional integrity. Cerebral autoregulation, that is, the brain's intrinsic ability to regulate its own blood flow independently from the systemic blood pressure and cardiac output, is an important physiological mechanism that offers protection from hypoperfusion injury.

DISCUSSION

 Two major independent mechanisms are known to be involved in cerebral autoregulation: (1) flow-metabolism coupling and (2) myogenic responses of cerebral blood vessels to changes in transmural/arterial pressure. A third, less prominent component of cerebral autoregulation comes in the form of neurogenic influences on cerebral vasculature.

CONCLUSION

 Although fragmentation of cerebral autoregulation in separate and distinct from each other mechanisms is somewhat arbitrary, such a scheme is useful for reasons of simplification and to better understand their overall effect. Comprehension of cerebral autoregulation is imperative for clinicians in order for them to mitigate consequences of its impairment in the context of traumatic brain injury, subarachnoid hemorrhage, stroke, or other pathological conditions.

The Effects of Ouabain and Potassium on Peritoneal Fluid and Solute Transport Characteristics

Background

We reported anomalous transport characteristics of potassium during experimental peritoneal dialysis in rats and suggested that mechanisms of peritoneal potassium transport could be other than simple passive transport. Intracellular transport of potassium in cultured human mesothelial cells was reported to be regulated by three different pathways, such as channels blocked by ouabain, channels blocked by furosemide, and other.

Objective

To investigate the effect of ouabain on peritoneal potassium and water transport characteristics.

Methods

A single 4-hour peritoneal dwell was performed in 28 5prague-Dawley rats. To minimize the diffusive transport of potassium, 4.5 mmol/L of KCI was added into conventional dialysis solution with 3.86% glucose [acidic peritoneal dialysis solution (APD)]. To evaluate the effect of the pH of dialysis solution on the transport of potassium and water, 4 mmol/L of NaOH was added into the potassium -containing study solutions [neutral peritoneal dialysis solution (NPD)]. To evaluate the effect of a potassium channel blocker on peritoneal potassium transport ATPase sensitive Na+-K+-transport inhibitor, ouabain (10–5 mmol/L) was added to dialysis solutions immediately before the dwell study in eight rats with APD (APD-O) and six rats with NPD (NPD-O). Ouabain was not added in eight and six rats with APD and NPD (APD-C and NPD-C, respectively). They were used as control. Infusion volume was 30 mL. The intraperitoneal volume (V D) was estimated by using a volume marker dilution method with corrections for the elimination of volume marker, radioiodinated human serum albumin (RI5A), from the peritoneal cavity (KE). The diffusive mass transport coefficient (KBD) and sieving coefficient (5) were estimated using the modified Babb-Randerson-Farrell model.

Results

VD was significantly higher (p < 0.05 from 90 min to 240 min) and KE (0.027 ± 0.018 mL/min for APD-O, 0.026 ± 0.017 mL/min for NPD-O, and 0.030 ± 0.022 mL/min for NPD-C, vs 0.058 ± 0.030 mL/min for APD-C, p < 0.05 for each) significantly lower during dialysis with APD -O, NPD -O, and NPD-C than with APD-C. The intraperitoneal glucose expressed as a percentage of the initial amount was significantly higher with APD-O, NPD-C, and NPD-Q than with APD-C (p < 0.05 from 90 min to 240 min). KBD for sodium was higher during dialysis with ouabain than without ouabain, while KBD for urea, glucose, and potassium, and 5 for urea, glucose, sodium, and potassium did not differ between the four groups.

Conclusions

The physiologic potassium concentration in neutral dialysis solutions and the use of ouabain decreased the intraperitoneal fluid absorption. The diffusive transport coefficient and sieving coefficient for potassium did not differ, while the diffusive transport coefficient for sodium increased during use of ouabain.

Enhancement of bradykinin-induced relaxation by focal brain ischemia in the rat middle cerebral artery: Receptor expression upregulation and activation of multiple pathways

Focal brain ischemia markedly affects cerebrovascular reactivity. So far, these changes have mainly been related to alterations in the level of smooth muscle cell function while alterations of the endothelial lining have not yet been studied in detail. We have, therefore, investigated the effects of ischemia/reperfusion injury on bradykinin (BK)-induced relaxation since BK is an important mediator of tissue inflammation and affects vascular function in an endothelium-dependent manner. Focal brain ischemia was induced in rats by endovascular filament occlusion (2h) of the middle cerebral artery (MCA). After 22h reperfusion, both MCAs were harvested and the response to BK studied in organ bath experiments. Expression of the BK receptor subtypes 1 and 2 (B₁, B₂) was determined by real-time semi-quantitative RT-qPCR methodology, and whole mount immunofluorescence staining was performed to show the B₂ receptor protein expression. In control animals, BK did not induce significant vasomotor effects despite a functionally intact endothelium and robust expression of B₂ mRNA. After ischemia/reperfusion injury, BK induced a concentration-related sustained relaxation in all arteries studied, more pronounced in the ipsilateral than in the contralateral MCA. The B₂ mRNA was significantly upregulated and the B₁ mRNA displayed de novo expression, again more pronounced ipsi- than contralaterally. Endothelial cells displaying B₂ receptor immunofluorescence were observed scattered or clustered in previously occluded MCAs. Relaxation to BK was mediated by B₂ receptor activation, abolished after endothelium denudation, and largely diminished by blocking nitric oxide (NO) release or soluble guanylyl cyclase activity. Relaxation to BK was partially inhibited by charybdotoxin (ChTx), but not apamin or iberiotoxin suggesting activation of an endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization pathway. When the NO-cGMP pathway was blocked, BK induced a transient relaxation which was suppressed by ChTx. After ischemia/reperfusion injury BK elicits endothelium-dependent relaxation which was not detectable in control MCAs. This gain of function is mediated by B₂ receptor activation and involves the release of NO and activation of an endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization. It goes along with increased B₂ mRNA and protein expression, leaving the functional role of the de novo B₁ receptor expression still open.

Acid-base regulation and sensing: Accelerators and brakes in metabolic regulation of cerebrovascular tone

Metabolic regulation of cerebrovascular tone directs blood flow to areas of increased neuronal activity and during disease states partially compensates for insufficient perfusion by enhancing blood flow in collateral blood vessels. Acid-base disturbances frequently occur as result of enhanced metabolism or insufficient blood supply, but despite definitive evidence that acid-base disturbances alter arterial tone, effects of individual acid-base equivalents and the underlying signaling mechanisms are still being debated. H+ is an important intra- and extracellular messenger that modifies cerebrovascular tone. In addition, low extracellular [HCO3-] promotes cerebrovascular contraction through an endothelium-dependent mechanism. CO2 alters arterial tone development via changes in intra- and extracellular pH but it is still controversial whether CO2 also has direct vasomotor effects. Vasocontractile responses to low extracellular [HCO3-] and acute CO2-induced decreases in intracellular pH can counteract H+-mediated vasorelaxation during metabolic and respiratory acidosis, respectively, and may thereby reduce the risk of capillary damage and cerebral edema that could be consequences of unopposed vasodilation. In this review, the signaling mechanisms for acid-base equivalents in cerebral arteries and the mechanisms of intracellular pH control in the arterial wall are discussed in the context of metabolic regulation of cerebrovascular tone and local perfusion.

Effect of vasopressin-induced chronic hyponatremia on the regulation of the middle cerebral artery of the rat

Vasopressin (arginine vasopressin, AVP) plays a crucial role in maintaining body fluid homeostasis. Excessive release of vasopressin can lead to hyponatremia. Changes in cerebral circulation during vasopressin-induced chronic hyponatremia are not elucidated. The present study has been designed to investigate the effect of chronic vasopressin-induced hyponatremia on the regulation of the tone of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) of the rat. Chronic hyponatremia was induced in vivo with the help of vasopressin, released continuously from subcutaneously implanted ALZET mini-osmotic pumps, and a liquid diet. After 3.5 days of chronic hyponatremia, the plasma Na⁺ concentration decreased to 119 ± 3 mM. MCAs were isolated and placed in a MOPS-buffered saline solution containing 121 mM Na⁺. Chronic hyponatremia did not affect the response of the MCA to increased intravascular pressure, to the administration of acetylcholine (ACh) and nitric oxide (NO) donor (SNAP, S-nitroso-N-acetyl-DL-penicillamine), and to increased K⁺ concentration, but impaired the response of the MCA to increased extravascular H⁺ concentration. Disturbed response of the MCA to acidosis was associated neither with the impairment of K_ATP channels nor with the activation of vasopressin V₁ receptor. Correction of hyponatremia did not restore the response of the MCA to acidosis. These results indicate that cerebral blood vessels do not fully adapt to prolonged vasopressin-induced hyponatremia.

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors modify intracellular pH transients and contractions of rat middle cerebral arteries during CO2/HCO3- fluctuations

The CO₂/HCO₃^- buffer minimizes pH changes in response to acid-base loads, HCO₃^- provides substrate for Na⁺,HCO₃^--cotransporters and Cl^-/HCO₃^--exchangers, and H⁺ and HCO₃^- modify vasomotor responses during acid-base disturbances. We show here that rat middle cerebral arteries express cytosolic, mitochondrial, extracellular, and secreted carbonic anhydrase isoforms that catalyze equilibration of the CO₂/HCO₃^- buffer. Switching from CO₂/HCO₃^--free to CO₂/HCO₃^--containing extracellular solution results in initial intracellular acidification due to hydration of CO₂ followed by gradual alkalinization due to cellular HCO₃^- uptake. Carbonic anhydrase inhibition decelerates the initial acidification and attenuates the associated transient vasoconstriction without affecting intracellular pH or artery tone at steady-state. Na⁺,HCO₃^--cotransport and Na⁺/H⁺-exchange activity after NH₄⁺-prepulse-induced intracellular acidification are unaffected by carbonic anhydrase inhibition. Extracellular surface pH transients induced by transmembrane NH₃ flux are evident under CO₂/HCO₃^--free conditions but absent when the buffer capacity and apparent H⁺ mobility increase in the presence of CO₂/HCO₃^- even after the inhibition of carbonic anhydrases. We conclude that (a) intracellular carbonic anhydrase activity accentuates pH transients and vasoconstriction in response to acute elevations of pCO₂, (b) CO₂/HCO₃^- minimizes extracellular surface pH transients without requiring carbonic anhydrase activity, and (c) carbonic anhydrases are not rate limiting for acid–base transport across cell membranes during recovery from intracellular acidification.

Extracellular acidosis and very low [Na+ ] inhibit NBCn1- and NHE1-mediated net acid extrusion from mouse vascular smooth muscle cells

AIM

The electroneutral Na⁺ , HCO3- cotransporter NBCn1 and Na⁺ /H⁺ exchanger NHE1 regulate acid-base balance in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and modify artery function and structure. Pathological conditions - notably ischaemia - can dramatically perturb intracellular (i) and extracellular (o) pH and [Na⁺ ]. We examined effects of low [Na⁺ ]_o and pH_o on NBCn1 and NHE1 activity in VSMCs of small arteries.

METHODS

We measured pH_i by 2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5-(and-6)-carboxyfluorescein-based fluorescence microscopy of mouse mesenteric arteries and induced intracellular acidification by NH4+ prepulse technique.

RESULTS

NBCn1 activity - defined as Na⁺ -dependent, amiloride-insensitive net base uptake with CO₂ /HCO3- present - was inhibited equally when pH_o decreased from 7.4 (22 mm HCO3-/5% CO₂ ) by metabolic (pH_o 7.1/11 mm HCO3-: 22 ± 8%; pH_o 6.8/5.5 mm HCO3-: 61 ± 7%) or respiratory (pH_o 7.1/10% CO₂ : 35 ± 11%; pH_o 6.8/20% CO₂ : 56 ± 7%) acidosis. Extracellular acidosis more prominently inhibited NHE1 activity - defined as Na⁺ -dependent net acid extrusion without CO₂ /HCO3- present - at both pH_o 7.1 (45 ± 9%) and 6.8 (85 ± 5%). Independently of pH_o , lowering [Na⁺ ]_o from 140 to 70 mm reduced NBCn1 and NHE1 activity <20% whereas transport activities declined markedly (25-50%) when [Na⁺ ]_o was reduced to 35 mm. Steady-state pH_i decreased more during respiratory (ΔpH_i /ΔpH_o  = 71 ± 4%) than metabolic (ΔpH_i /ΔpH_o  = 30 ± 7%) acidosis.

CONCLUSION

Extracellular acidification inhibits NBCn1 and NHE1 activity in VSMCs. NBCn1 is equivalently inhibited when pCO₂ is raised or [HCO3-]_o decreased. Lowering [Na⁺ ]_o inhibits NBCn1 and NHE1 markedly only below the typical physiological and pathophysiological range. We propose that inhibition of Na⁺ -dependent net acid extrusion at low pH_o protects against cellular Na⁺ overload at the cost of intracellular acidification.

Restoration of the response of the middle cerebral artery of the rat to acidosis in hyposmotic hyponatremia by the opener of large-conductance calcium sensitive potassium channels (BKCa)

Hyposmotic hyponatremia (the decrease of extracellular concentration of sodium ions from 145 to 121 mM and the decrease of hyposmolality from 300 to 250 mOsm/kg H₂O) impairs response of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) to acetylcholine and NO donor (S-nitroso-N-acetyl-DL-penicillamine). Since acidosis activates a similar intracellular signaling pathway, the present study was designed to verify the hypothesis that the response of the MCA to acidosis is impaired during acute hyposmotic hyponatremia due to abnormal NO-related signal transduction in vascular smooth muscle cells. Studies performed on isolated, cannulated, and pressurized rat MCA revealed that hyposmotic hyponatremia impaired the response of the MCA to acidosis and this was associated with hyposmolality rather than with decreased sodium ion concentration. Response to acidosis was restored by the BK_Ca but not by the K_ATP channel activator. Patch-clamp electrophysiology performed on myocytes freshly isolated from MCAs, demonstrated that hyposmotic hyponatremia does not affect BK_Ca currents but decreases the voltage-dependency of the activation of the BK_Ca channels in the presence of a specific opener of these channels. Our study suggests that reduced sensitivity of BK_Ca channels in the MCA to agonists results in the lack of response of this artery to acidosis during acute hyposmotic hyponatremia.

Extracellular HCO3- is sensed by mouse cerebral arteries: Regulation of tone by receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase γ

We investigate sensing and signaling mechanisms for H(+), [Formula: see text] and CO2 in basilar arteries using out-of-equilibrium solutions. Selectively varying pHo, [[Formula: see text]]o, or pCO2, we find: (a) lowering pHo attenuates vasoconstriction and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) Ca(2+)-responses whereas raising pHo augments vasoconstriction independently of VSMC [Ca(2+)]i, (b) lowering [[Formula: see text]]o increases arterial agonist-sensitivity of tone development without affecting VSMC [Ca(2+)]i but c) no evidence that CO2 has direct net vasomotor effects. Receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase (RPTP)γ is transcribed in endothelial cells, and direct vasomotor effects of [Formula: see text] are absent in arteries from RPTPγ-knockout mice. At pHo 7.4, selective changes in [[Formula: see text]]o or pCO2 have little effect on pHi At pHo 7.1, decreased [[Formula: see text]]o or increased pCO2 causes intracellular acidification, which attenuates vasoconstriction. Under equilibrated conditions, anti-contractile effects of CO2/[Formula: see text] are endothelium-dependent and absent in arteries from RPTPγ-knockout mice. With CO2/[Formula: see text] present, contractile responses to agonist-stimulation are potentiated in arteries from RPTPγ-knockout compared to wild-type mice, and this difference is larger for respiratory than metabolic acidosis. In conclusion, decreased pHo and pHi inhibit vasoconstriction, whereas decreased [[Formula: see text]]o promotes vasoconstriction through RPTPγ-dependent changes in VSMC Ca(2+)-sensitivity. [Formula: see text] serves dual roles, providing substrate for pHi-regulating membrane transporters and modulating arterial responses to acid-base disturbances.

The dynamics of cerebrovascular reactivity shown with transfer function analysis

Cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) is often defined as the increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF) produced by an increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) and may be used clinically to assess the health of the cerebrovasculature. When CBF is estimated using blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) magnetic resonance imaging, CVR values for each voxel can be displayed using a color scale mapped onto the corresponding anatomical scan. While these CVR maps therefore show the distribution of cerebrovascular reactivity, they only provide an estimate of the magnitude of the cerebrovascular response, and do not indicate the time course of the response; whether rapid or slow. Here we describe transfer function analysis (TFA) of the BOLD response to CO2 that provides not only the magnitude of the response (gain) but also the phase and coherence. The phase can be interpreted as indicating the speed of response and so can distinguish areas where the response is slowed. The coherence measures the fidelity with which the response follows the stimulus. The examples of gain, phase and coherence maps obtained from TFA of previously recorded test data from patients and healthy individuals demonstrate that these maps may enhance assessment of cerebrovascular pathophysiology by providing insight into the dynamics of cerebral blood flow control and distribution.

Factors affecting the determination of cerebrovascular reactivity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR), measures the ability of the cerebrovasculature to respond to vasoactive stimuli such as CO2. CVR is often expressed as the ratio of cerebral blood flow change to CO2 change. We examine several factors affecting this measurement: blood pressure, stimulus pattern, response analysis and subject position.

METHODS

Step and ramp increases in CO2 were implemented in nine subjects, seated and supine. Middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity (MCAv), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were determined breath-by-breath. Cerebrovascular conductance (MCAc) was estimated as MCAv/MAP. CVR was calculated from both the relative and absolute measures of MCAc and MCAv responses.

RESULTS

MAP increased with CO2 in some subjects so that relative CVR calculated from conductance responses were less than those calculated from CVR calculated from velocity responses. CVR measured from step responses were affected by the response dynamics, and were less than those calculated from CVR measured from ramp responses. Subject position did not affect CVR.

CONCLUSIONS

(1) MAP increases with CO2 and acts as a confounding factor for CVR measurement; (2) CVR depends on the stimulus pattern used; (3) CVR did not differ from the sitting versus supine in these experiments; (4) CVR calculated from absolute changes of MCAv was less than that calculated from relative changes.

Chemoreception and asphyxia-induced arousal

Arousal protects against the adverse and potentially fatal effects of asphyxia during sleep. Asphyxia stimulates the carotid bodies and central chemoreceptors but the sequence of events leading to arousal is uncertain. In this review, the theoretical mechanisms leading to arousal from sleep are briefly summarized and the issue of whether central respiratory chemoreceptors (CRCs) or other types of CO2-responsive CNS neurons contribute to asphyxia-induced arousal is discussed. We focus on the role of the retrotrapezoid nucleus, the raphe and the locus coeruleus and emphasize the anatomical and neurophysiological evidence which suggests that these putative central chemoreceptors could contribute to arousal independently of their effects on breathing. Finally, we describe recent attempts to test the contribution of specific brainstem pathways to asphyxia-induced arousal using optogenetic and other tools and the possible contribution of a group of hypoxia-sensitive brainstem neurons (the C1 cells) to breathing and arousal.

Ryanodine receptors, calcium signaling, and regulation of vascular tone in the cerebral parenchymal microcirculation

The cerebral blood supply is delivered by a surface network of pial arteries and arterioles from which arise (parenchymal) arterioles that penetrate into the cortex and terminate in a rich capillary bed. The critical regulation of CBF, locally and globally, requires precise vasomotor regulation of the intracerebral microvasculature. This vascular region is anatomically unique as illustrated by the presence of astrocytic processes that envelope almost the entire basolateral surface of PAs. There are, moreover, notable functional differences between pial arteries and PAs. For example, in pial VSMCs, local calcium release events ("calcium sparks") through ryanodine receptor (RyR) channels in SR membrane activate large conductance, calcium-sensitive potassium channels to modulate vascular diameter. In contrast, VSMCs in PAs express functional RyR and BK channels, but under physiological conditions, these channels do not oppose pressure-induced vasoconstriction. Here, we summarize the roles of ryanodine receptors in the parenchymal microvasculature under physiologic and pathologic conditions, and discuss their importance in the control of CBF.

pCO(2) and pH regulation of cerebral blood flow

CO₂ serves as one of the fundamental regulators of cerebral blood flow (CBF). It is widely considered that this regulation occurs through pCO₂-driven changes in pH of the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), with elevated and lowered pH causing direct relaxation and contraction of the smooth muscle, respectively. However, some findings also suggest that pCO₂ acts independently of and/or in conjunction with altered pH. This action may be due to a direct effect of CSF pCO₂ on the smooth muscle as well as on the endothelium, nerves, and astrocytes. Findings may also point to an action of arterial pCO₂ on the endothelium to regulate smooth muscle contractility. Thus, the effects of pH and pCO₂ may be influenced by the absence/presence of different cell types in the various experimental preparations. Results may also be influenced by experimental parameters including myogenic tone as well as solutions containing significantly altered HCO₃⁻ concentrations, i.e., solutions routinely employed to differentiate the effects of pH from pCO₂. In sum, it appears that pCO₂, independently and in conjunction with pH, may regulate CBF.

The interaction of carbon dioxide and hypoxia in the control of cerebral blood flow

Both hypoxia and carbon dioxide increase cerebral blood flow (CBF), and their effective interaction is currently thought to be additive. Our objective was to test this hypothesis. Eight healthy subjects breathed a series of progressively hypoxic gases at three levels of carbon dioxide. Middle cerebral artery velocity, as an index of CBF; partial pressures of carbon dioxide and oxygen and concentration of oxygen in arterial blood; and mean arterial blood pressure were monitored. The product of middle cerebral artery velocity and arterial concentration of oxygen was used as an index of cerebral oxygen delivery. Two-way repeated measures analyses of variance (rmANOVA) found a significant interaction of carbon dioxide and hypoxia factors for both CBF and cerebral oxygen delivery. Regression models using sigmoidal dependence on carbon dioxide and a rectangular hyperbolic dependence on hypoxia were fitted to the data to illustrate this interaction. We concluded that carbon dioxide and hypoxia act synergistically in their control of CBF so that the delivery of oxygen to the brain is enhanced during hypoxic hypercapnia and, although reduced during normoxic hypocapnia, can be restored to normal levels with progressive hypoxia.

Intracellular pH in the resistance vasculature: regulation and functional implications

Net acid extrusion from vascular smooth muscle (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) in the wall of resistance arteries is mediated by the Na(+),HCO(3)(-) cotransporter NBCn1 (SLC4A7) and the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger NHE1 (SLC9A1) and is essential for intracellular pH (pH(i)) control. Experimental evidence suggests that the pH(i) of VSMCs and ECs modulates both vasocontractile and vasodilatory functions in resistance arteries with implications for blood pressure regulation. The connection between disturbed pH(i) and altered cardiovascular function has been substantiated by a genome-wide association study showing a link between NBCn1 and human hypertension. On this basis, we here review the current evidence regarding (a) molecular mechanisms involved in pH(i) control in VSMCs and ECs of resistance arteries at rest and during contractions, (b) implications of disturbed pH(i) for resistance artery function, and (c) involvement of disturbed pH(i) in the pathogenesis of vascular disease. The current evidence clearly implies that pH(i) of VSMCs and ECs modulates vascular function and suggests that disturbed pH(i) either consequent to disturbed regulation or due to metabolic challenges needs to be taken into consideration as a mechanistic component of artery dysfunction and disturbed blood pressure regulation.

Glial and neuronal control of brain blood flow

Blood flow in the brain is regulated by neurons and astrocytes. Knowledge of how these cells control blood flow is crucial for understanding how neural computation is powered, for interpreting functional imaging scans of brains, and for developing treatments for neurological disorders. It is now recognized that neurotransmitter-mediated signalling has a key role in regulating cerebral blood flow, that much of this control is mediated by astrocytes, that oxygen modulates blood flow regulation, and that blood flow may be controlled by capillaries as well as by arterioles. These conceptual shifts in our understanding of cerebral blood flow control have important implications for the development of new therapeutic approaches.

Ovarian cancer G protein-coupled receptor 1-dependent and -independent vascular actions to acidic pH in human aortic smooth muscle cells

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammation disease characterized by acidic micromilieu and the accumulation of numerous bioactive lipid mediators, such as lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and prostaglandins, in the atherosclerotic lesion. Chronic acidification induced various effects on vascular smooth muscle cells, but the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects remain unknown. In this study, we examine the role of proton-sensing ovarian cancer G protein-coupled receptor 1 (OGR1) in extracellular acidification-induced regulation of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 induction, PGI(2) production, MAPK phosphatase (MKP)-1 expression, and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 expression and proliferation in human aortic smooth muscle cells (AoSMCs). Experiments with knockdown with small interfering RNA specific to OGR1 and specific inhibitors for G proteins showed that acidification-induced COX-2 expression, PGI(2) production, and MKP-1 expression, but not PAI-1 expression and inhibition of proliferation, were dependent on OGR1 and mainly mediated by G(q/11) protein. LPA remarkably enhanced, through the LPA(1) receptor/G(i) protein, the OGR1-mediated vascular actions to acidic pH. In conclusion, acidic pH-induced vascular actions of AoSMCs can be dissected to OGR1-dependent and -independent pathways: COX-2 expression, PGI(2) production, and MKP-1 expression are mediated by OGR1, but PAI-1 expression and inhibition of proliferation are not. LPA, which is usually thought to be a proatherogenic lipid mediator, may exert antiatherogenic actions under acidic micromilieu through cross-talk between LPA(1)/G(i) protein and OGR1/G(q/11) protein.

Relationship between middle cerebral artery blood velocity and end-tidal PCO2 in the hypocapnic-hypercapnic range in humans

This study examined the relationship between cerebral blood flow (CBF) and end-tidal PCO2 (PETCO2) in humans. We used transcranial Doppler ultrasound to determine middle cerebral artery peak blood velocity responses to 14 levels of PETCO2 in a range of 22 to 50 Torr with a constant end-tidal PO2 (100 Torr) in eight subjects. PETCO2 and end-tidal PO2 were controlled by using the technique of dynamic end-tidal forcing combined with controlled hyperventilation. Two protocols were conducted in which PETCO2 was changed by 2 Torr every 2 min from hypocapnia to hypercapnia (protocol I) and vice-versa (protocol D). Over the range of PETCO2 studied, the sensitivity of peak blood velocity to changes in PETCO2 (CBF-PETCO2 sensitivity) was nonlinear with a greater sensitivity in hypercapnia (4.7 and 4.0%/Torr, protocols I and D, respectively) compared with hypocapnia (2.5 and 2.2%/Torr). Furthermore, there was evidence of hysteresis in the CBF-PETCO2 sensitivity; for a given PETCO2, there was greater sensitivity during protocol I compared with protocol D. In conclusion, CBF-PETCO2 sensitivity varies depending on the level of PETCO2 and the protocol that is used. The mechanisms underlying these responses require further investigation.

Protons make tumor cells move like clockwork

Cancer accounts for 13% of the yearly total mortality worldwide. Most cancer deaths are the sequel of metastatic diseases rather than of primary tumor growth. Thus, the major challenge in tumor therapy is the tumor cells' ability to metastasize. The extent to which a tumor metastasizes correlates with the tumor cells' migratory activity. Tumor cell migration requires a coordinated formation and release of cell adhesion contacts, a controlled cytoskeletal dynamics, the digestion and reorganization of the extracellular matrix, and local ion and water transport across the plasma membrane. All of these operations depend on intracellular pH (pH(i)) and extracellular pH (pH(e)). Numerous H(+), HCO (3) (-) , and monocarboxylate transporters as well as different carbonic anhydrase isozymes have considerable impact on pH(i) and pH(e) which spotlights them as possible, potential targets for anticancer therapeutics. Especially in solid tumors whose vascularization is often not sufficient, tumor cells cope with hypoxia and the resulting glycolysis by overexpressing the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger NHE1, monocarboxylate transporters MCT1 and/or MCT4, and the carbonic anhydrase CA IX. NHE1, MCT, and CA IX activity lead to an acidification of the extracellular space in order to maintain the cytosolic pH homeostasis stable. The present article gives a review on how this characteristic, acidic tumor micro- and nanoenvironment controls tumor cell migration.

Differential responses of porcine anterior spinal and middle cerebral arteries to carbon dioxide and pH

OBJECTIVE

Dysfunction of the anterior spinal arteries (ASAs) may induce paresis or paraplegia after thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm or spine surgery. However, there have been no reports of the effects of CO2 and pH on ASAs. Information on these effects on ASAs might contribute to the perioperative management or critical care of spinal cord function. Thus, we investigated the effects of CO2 and pH on the vasomotor tone of ASAs and the third branch of the middle cerebral artery (bMCA).

DESIGN

Prospective study of the effects of CO2 and pH on vasomotor response of porcine ASA and bMCA in vitro.

SETTING

University laboratories.

SUBJECTS

Porcine heads and spinal cords obtained from a slaughterhouse.

INTERVENTION

ASAs and bMCAs were isolated, and changes in the intraluminal region of these pressurized arteries ( approximately 80 mm Hg) were observed for 30 minutes after perfusion with a solution saturated with various concentrations of CO2 and pH.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Respiratory acidosis (pH/Pco2 approximately 7.10-7.15/ approximately 60-80 mm Hg) constricted the ASAs, followed by a partial but gradual decrease in tone, whereas the bMCAs were exclusively dilated. The respiratory alkalosis (pH/Pco2 approximately 7.60/ approximately 20 mm Hg) did not influence ASA tone. Vasoconstriction of the ASAs induced by respiratory acidosis was abolished by removal of the endothelium, but not by N-nitro-L-arginine (1 microM). Respiratory acidosis dilated the ASAs in all preparations treated with ONO-3708 (1 microM), a specific thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist, and OKY-046 (1 microM), a specific thromboxane synthase inhibitor. Metabolic acidosis (pH/Pco2 approximately 7.10/ approximately 40 mm Hg) caused dilation of both bMCAs and ASAs, which was abolished by glibenclamide (1 microM).

CONCLUSIONS

CO2-induced endothelium-dependent constriction in porcine ASAs through releasing thromboxane A2-like substance(s). Thus, hypercarbia might not be favorable for the perioperative or critical care management of spinal cord function during thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm and spine surgery.

A model of autoregulated blood flow in the cerebral vasculature

The circle of Willis is a ring-like arterial structure located in the base of the brain, and is responsible for the distribution of oxygenated blood throughout the cerebral mass. Among the general population, approximately 50 per cent have a complete circle of Willis; for the others a multitude of possible anatomical variations are present, with absent or hypoplastic vessels being common. Certain conditions such as a build-up of atherosclerotic plaque on the arterial wall can result in ischaemic damage and stroke-like symptoms. A three-dimensional computer model has been developed based on the results of magnetic resonance imaging data, incorporating a numerical algorithm to simulate the body's autoregulation mechanism, such that oxygen delivery to the cerebral territories can be predicted in response events, leading to a reduction in cerebral blood flow. Sample results are presented for combinations of occlusion and stenosis.

Changes in stretch-induced tone induced by intracellular acidosis in rabbit basilar artery: effects on BKCa channel activity

It is known that myogenic reactivity is a fundamental determinant of the relative constancy of blood flow through the cerebral artery. It is also known that acute alteration of pH significantly affects the cerebral circulation and, therefore, we investigated the effect of mechanism of action of intracellular acidosis on myogenic tone in rabbit basilar artery. Myogenic tone was developed by imposed stretch of basilar artery and intracellular acidosis induced by the bath application of 20 mmol/L sodium acetate. Sodium acetate caused a biphasic increase in myogenic tone. The initial component reached a peak quickly and then fell slowly to a lower steady-state significantly above basal tone. The sodium acetate-induced increase in myogenic tone was completely inhibited by elimination of external Ca2+, or treatment of nifedipine, but not with gadolinium or NPPB. TEA (5 mmol/L) and iberiotoxin (100 nmol/L) inhibited the sodium acetate-induced increase in myogenic tone. In inside-out patch-clamp recordings, decreasing pH of the mock intracellular solution from 7.4 to 6.9 markedly inhibited BKCa currents. Several inhibitors involved in Ca2+ sensitization pathways, 10(-6) mol/L Y-27632, 5 x 10(-7) mol/L calphostin C and 10(-5) mol/L PD98059 had no effect on the sodium acetate-induced increase in myogenic tone. These results suggest that intracellular acidosis increases stretch-induced myogenic tone in rabbit basilar artery. Furthermore, voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx plays a key role in intracellular acidosis-induced increase in myogenic tone and may be mediated, at least in part, by inhibition of BKCa.

Intracellular pH as a determinant of vascular smooth muscle function

Intracellular pH (pHi) is a physiological parameter that is intimately linked to contractility, growth and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle (VSM). Regarding contractility, no general unifying concept of pHi regulation but a rather complex relation between pHi signals and vascular tone has been revealed so far. The modulation of vasotone by pHi depends on the type of blood vessel as well as on the pattern of regulatory input signals. In addition, changes in pHi have been recognized as an important cellular signal to determine the fate of cells in terms of proliferation or apoptosis. Cellular sensors for pHi include a variety of ion transport systems which control intracellular Ca2+ gradients and are likely to serve as a link between pHi and cell functions. Here we provide an overview on the potential targets and mechanisms that transduce pHi signals in VSM. The role of pHi-sensing signaling complexes and localized pHi signaling as the basis of diversity of pHi regulation of VSM function is discussed.

Prostaglandin I(2) production and cAMP accumulation in response to acidic extracellular pH through OGR1 in human aortic smooth muscle cells

Ovarian cancer G-protein-coupled receptor 1 (OGR1) and GPR4 have recently been identified as proton-sensing or extracellular pH-responsive G-protein-coupled receptors stimulating inositol phosphate production and cAMP accumulation, respectively. In the present study, we found that OGR1 and GPR4 mRNAs were expressed in human aortic smooth muscle cells (AoSMCs). Acidic extracellular pH induced inositol phosphate production, a transient increase in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)), and cAMP accumulation in these cells. When small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeted for OGR1 and GPR4 were transfected to the cells, the acid-induced inositol phosphate production and [Ca(2+)](i) increase were markedly inhibited by the OGR1 siRNA but not by the GPR4 siRNA. Unexpectedly, the acid-induced cAMP accumulation was also largely inhibited by OGR1 siRNA but only slightly by GPR4 siRNA. Acidic extracellular pH also stimulated prostaglandin I2 (PGI(2)) production, which was again inhibited by OGR1 siRNA. The specific inhibitors for extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase and cyclooxygenase attenuated the acid-induced PGI(2) production and cAMP accumulation without changes in the inositol phosphate production. A specific inhibitor of phospholipase C also inhibited the acid-induced cAMP accumulation. In conclusion, OGR1 is a major receptor involved in the extracellular acid-induced stimulation of PGI(2) production and cAMP accumulation in AoSMCs. The cAMP accumulation may occur through OGR1-mediated stimulation of the phospholipase C/cyclooxygenase/PGI(2) pathway.

Influence of the glia limitans on pial arteriolar relaxation in the rat

We examined whether damage to the glia limitans (GL), via exposure to the gliotoxin l-alpha-aminoadipic acid (l-alphaAAA), alters hypercapnia-induced pial arteriolar dilation in vivo. Anesthetized female rats were prepared with closed cranial windows. Pial arteriolar diameters were measured using intravital microscopy. l-alphaAAA (2 mM) was injected into the space under the cranial windows 24 h before the study, and injury to the GL was confirmed by light microscopy. l-alphaAAA was associated with a reduction in pial arteriolar CO(2) reactivity to 40-50% of the level seen in vehicle-treated controls, with no further reduction in the CO(2) response after nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS) inhibition via N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine (l-NNA). Subsequent blockade of prostanoid synthesis, via indomethacin (Indo), reduced CO(2) reactivity to 10-15% of normal. In vehicle-treated controls, l-NNA, followed by Indo, reduced the response to approximately 50% and then to 15-20% of the normocapnic value, respectively. On the other hand, l-alphaAAA had no effect on vascular responses to the endothelium-dependent vasodilator acetylcholine or the NO donor SNAP and did not alter cortical somatosensory evoked responses. This indicates an absence of any direct l-alphaAAA actions on pial arterioles or influence on neuronal transmission. Furthermore, l-alphaAAA did not alter the vasodilation elicited by topical application of an acidic artificial cerebrospinal fluid solution, suggesting that the GL influences the pial arteriolar relaxation elicited by hypercapnic, but not local extracellular (EC), acidosis. That differences exist in the mechanisms mediating hypercapnia- versus EC acidosis-induced pial arteriolar dilations was further exemplified by the finding that topical application of a neuronal NOS (nNOS)-selective blocker (ARR-17477) reduced the response to hypercapnia (by approximately 65%) but not the response to EC acidosis. Disruption of GL gap junctional communication, using an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) connexin43 knockdown approach, was accompanied by a 33% lower CO(2) reactivity versus missense ODN-treated controls. These results suggest that the GL contribution to the hypercapnic vascular response appears to involve the NO-dependent component rather than the prostanoid-dependent component and may involve gap junctional communication. We speculate that the GL may act to facilitate the spread, to pial vessels, of hypercapnia-induced vasodilating signals arising in the comparatively few scattered nNOS neurons that lie well beneath the GL.

Effects of pH on vascular tone in rabbit basilar arteries

Effects of pH on vascular tone and L-type Ca2+ channels were investigated using Mulvany myograph and voltage-clamp technique in rabbit basilar arteries. In rabbit basilar arteries, high K+ produced tonic contractions by 11+/-0.6 mN (mean+/-S.E.,n=19). When extracellular pH (pHo) was changed from control 7.4 to 7.9 ([alkalosis]o), K+-induced contraction was increased to 128+/-2.1% of the control (n=13). However, K+-induced contraction was decreased to 73+/-1.3% of the control at pHo 6.8 ([acidosis] o, n=4). Histamine (10 microM) also produced tonic contraction by 11+/-0.6 mN (n=17), which was blocked by post-application of nicardipine (1 microM). [alkalosis]o and [acidosis]o increased or decreased histamine-induced contraction to 134+/-5.7% and 27+/-7.6% of the control (n=4, 6). Since high K+- and histamine-induced tonic contractions were affected by nicardipine and pHo, the effect of pHo on voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ channel (VDCCL) was studied. VDCCL was modulated by pHo: the peak value of Ca2+ channel current (IBa) at a holding of 0 mV decreased in [acidosis]o by 41+/-8.8%, whereas that increased in [alkalosis]o by 35+/-2.1% (n=3). These results suggested that the external pH regulates vascular tone partly via the modulation of VDCC in rabbit basilar arteries.

Intracellular alkalinization induces Ca2+ influx via non-voltage-operated Ca2+ channels in rat aortic smooth muscle cells

In smooth muscle, the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+](i)) is the primary determinant of contraction, and the intracellular pH (pH(i)) modulates contractility. Using fura-2 and 2',7'-biscarboxyethyl-5(6) carboxyfluorescein (BCECF) fluorometry and rat aortic smooth muscle cells in primary culture, we investigated the effect of the increase in pH(i) on [Ca2+](i). The application of the NH(4)Cl induced concentration-dependent increases in both pH(i) and [Ca2+](i). The extent of [Ca2+](i) elevation induced by 20mM NH(4)Cl was approximately 50% of that obtained with 100mM K(+)-depolarization. The NH(4)Cl-induced elevation of [Ca2+](i) was completely abolished by the removal of extracellular Ca2+ or the addition of extracellular Ni2+. The 100mM K(+)-induced [Ca2+](i) elevation was markedly inhibited by a voltage-operated Ca2+ channel blocker, diltiazem, and partly inhibited by a non-voltage-operated Ca2+ channel blocker, SKF96365. On the other hand, the NH(4)Cl-induced [Ca2+](i) elevation was resistant to diltiazem, but was markedly inhibited by SKF96365. It is thus concluded that intracellular alkalinization activates the Ca2+ influx via non-voltage-operated Ca2+ channels and thereby increases [Ca2+](i) in the vascular smooth muscle cells. The alkalinization-induced Ca2+ influx may therefore contribute to the enhancement of contraction.

Cerebrovascular vasodilation to extraluminal acidosis occurs via combined activation of ATP-sensitive and Ca2+-activated potassium channels

Albeit controversial, it has been suggested by several authors that nitric oxide (NO) serves as a permissive factor in the cerebral blood flow response to systemic hypercapnia. Potassium channels are important regulators of cerebrovascular tone and may be modulated by a basal perivascular NO level. To elucidate the functional targets of the proposed NO modulation during hypercapnia-induced vasodilation, the authors performed experiments in isolated, cannulated, and pressurized rat middle cerebral arteries (MCA). Extracellular pH was reduced from 7.4 to 7.0 in the extraluminal bath to induce NO dependent vasodilation. Acidosis increased vessel diameter by 35 +/- 10%. In separate experiments, ATP-sensitive potassium channels (KATP) were blocked by extraluminal application of glibenclamide (Glib), Ca2+-activated potassium channels (KCa) by tetraethylammonium (TEA), voltage-gated potassium channels (Kv) by 4-aminopyridine, and inward rectifier potassium channels (KIR) by BaCl2. Na+-K+-ATP-ase was inhibited by ouabain. Application of TEA slightly constricted the arteries at pH 7.4 and slightly but significantly attenuated the vasodilation to acidosis. Inhibition of the other potassium channels or Na+-K+-ATP-ase had no effect. Combined blockade of KATP and KCa channels further reduced resting diameter, and abolished acidosis induced vasodilation. The authors conclude that mainly KCa channels are active under resting conditions. KATP and KCa channels are responsible for vasodilation to acidosis. Activity of one of these potassium channel families is sufficient for vasodilation to acidosis, and only combined inhibition completely abolishes vasodilation. During NO synthase inhibition, dilation to the KATP channel opener pinacidil or the KCa channel opener NS1619 was attenuated or abolished, respectively. The authors suggest that a basal perivascular NO level is necessary for physiologic KATP and KCa channel function in rat MCA. Future studies have to elucidate whether this NO dependent effect on KATP and KCa channel function is a principle mechanism of NO induced modulation of cerebrovascular reactivity and whether the variability of findings in the literature concerning a modulatory role of NO can be explained by different levels of vascular NO/cGMP concentrations within the cerebrovascular tree.

Nitric oxide from perivascular nerves modulates cerebral arterial pH reactivity

In the isolated rat middle cerebral artery (MCA) we investigated the role of nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP in the vasodilatory response to extraluminal acidosis. Acidosis increased vessel diameter from 140 +/- 27 microm (pH 7.4) to 187 +/- 30 microm (pH 7.0, P < 0.01). NO synthase (NOS) inhibition by N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA, 10 microM) reduced baseline diameter (103 +/- 20 microm, P < 0.01) and attenuated response to acidosis (9 +/- 8 microm). Application of the NO-donors 3-morpholinosydnonimine (1 microM) or S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (1 microM), or of 8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-BrcGMP, 100 microM) reestablished pre-L-NNA diameter at pH 7.4 and reversed L-NNA-induced attenuation of the vessel response to acidosis. Restoration of pre-L-NNA diameter (pH 7.4) by papaverine (20 microM) or nimodipine (30 nM) had no effect on the attenuated response to acidosis. Guanylyl cyclase inhibition with 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]-quinoxalin-1-one (5 microM) or NOS-inhibition with 7-nitroindazole (7-NI, 100 microM) reduced baseline vessel diameter (109 +/- 8 or 127 +/- 11 microm, respectively) and vasodilation to acidosis, and restoration of baseline diameter with 8-BrcGMP (30 microM) completely restored dilation to pH 7.0. Chronic denervation of NOS-containing perivascular nerves in vivo 14 days before artery isolation significantly reduced pH-dependent reactivity in vitro (diameter increase sham: 48 +/- 14 microm, denervated: 14 +/- 8 microm), and 8-BrcGMP (30 microM) restored dilation to pH 7.0 (denervated: 49 +/- 31 microm). Removal of the endothelium did not change vasodilation to acidosis. We conclude that NO, produced by neuronal NOS of perivascular nerves, is a modulator in the pH-dependent vasoreactivity.

Mechanism of effect of extracellular pH on L-type Ca(2+) channel currents in human mesenteric arterial cells

Extracellular pH (pH(o)) influences vasoconstriction partly by modulating Ca(2+) influx through voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels in the vasculature. The mechanism of this effect of pH(o) is, however, controversial. Using the whole cell voltage-clamp technique, we examined the influence of pH(o) on L-type Ca(2+) channel currents in isolated human mesenteric arterial myocytes. Acidification to pH 6.2 and alkalinization to 8.2 from 7.2 decreased by approximately 50% and increased by 25-30%, respectively, the peak amplitude of Ca(2+) and Ba(2+) currents (1.5 and 10 mM), with an apparent pK(a) of 6.8. Activation and inactivation of Ca(2+) and Ba(2+) currents were shifted toward positive membrane voltages during acidification and in the opposite direction during alkalinization. The relationship between the current amplitude and shifts in the gating parameters in solutions of different pH(o) conformed closely to that predicted by the Gouy-Chapman model, in which the divalent cation concentration at the outer surface of the membrane varies with the extent to which protons neutralize the membrane surface potential.

Hypercapnia-induced contraction in isolated pulmonary arteries is endothelium-dependent

It has been demonstrated previously that isohydric hypercapnia (IH) does not affect agonist-induced tension development in pulmonary arteries. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of IH on depolarisation-induced, steady state tension in the isolated rat pulmonary artery. Rings were submaximally contracted with high KCl under control conditions (5% CO(2)-95% air). IH was achieved by switching to a modified PSS (isosmotic substitution of NaHCO(3) for NaCl), equilibrated with 10% CO(2) in air. On switching to IH, a significant increase in mean (+/-SEM) tension (25.3+/-6.3% Tmax) was observed in endothelium intact rings (n=6). Endothelial removal significantly reduced this response. Non-specific inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoenzymes (L-NAME, 10(-3) M) abolished the IH-induced increase in tension while inhibition of neuronal NOS (TRIM, 10(-5) M) was without effect. The relaxant response to the nitric oxide donor sodium nitroprusside was similar in IH and control conditions. These results suggest that IH caused an endothelium-dependent increase in depolarisation-induced tension by reducing NO production.

Hypercapnia-induced cerebral and ocular vasodilation is not altered by glibenclamide in humans

Carbon dioxide is an important regulator of vascular tone. Glibenclamide, an inhibitor of ATP-sensitive potassium channel (K(ATP)) activation, significantly blunts vasodilation in response to hypercapnic acidosis in animals. We investigated whether glibenclamide also alters the cerebral and ocular vasodilator response to hypercapnia in humans. Ten healthy male subjects were studied in a controlled, randomized, double-blind two-way crossover study under normoxic and hypercapnic conditions. Glibenclamide (5 mg po) or insulin (0.3 mU. kg(-1). min(-1) iv) were administered with glucose to achieve comparable plasma insulin levels. In control experiments, five healthy volunteers received glibenclamide (5 mg) or nicorandil (40 mg) or glibenclamide and nicorandil in a randomized, three-way crossover study. Mean blood flow velocity and resistive index in the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and in the ophthalmic artery (OA) were measured with Doppler sonography. Pulsatile choroidal blood flow was assessed with laser interferometric measurement of fundus pulsation. Forearm blood flow was measured with venous occlusion plethysmography. Hypercapnia increased ocular fundus pulsation amplitude by +18.2-22.3% (P < 0. 001) and mean flow velocity in the MCA by +27.4-33.3% (P < 0.001), but not in the OA (2.1-6.5%, P = 0.2). Forearm blood flow increased by 78.2% vs. baseline (P = 0.041) after nicorandil administration. Glibenclamide did not alter hypercapnia-induced changes in cerebral or ocular hemodynamics and did not affect systemic hemodynamics or forearm blood flow but significantly increased glucose utilization and blunted the nicorandil-induced vasodilation in the forearm. This suggests that hypercapnia-induced changes in the vascular beds under study are not mediated by activation of K(ATP) channels in humans.

Inhibitory effects of halothane, isoflurane, sevoflurane, and pentobarbital on the constriction induced by hypocapnia and bicarbonate in isolated canine cerebral arteries

The effects of halothane, isoflurane, sevoflurane (0.5, 1 and 2 MAC) and pentobarbital (10(-5) M, 10(-4) M and 3 x 10(-4) M) on hypocapnia- and bicarbonate-induced constriction of isolated dog middle cerebral arteries were investigated in vitro. The isometric tension of isolated cerebral arterial rings was measured in an organ bath containing Krebs bicarbonate solution, aerated with 5% CO2 and 95% O2. Hypocapnia, induced by replacing the bathing solution with one that had been equilibrated with 2.5% CO2 and 97.5% O2, produced a sustained vasoconstriction (268 +/- 36 mg, mean +/- SEM). Exposure of arterial rings to a bathing solution that contained double the concentration of NaHCO3 (50 mM) elicited a phasic constriction followed by a gradual decrease in tension (309 +/- 34 mg). Although halothane, isoflurane, and sevoflurane attenuated both hypocapnia- and bicarbonate-induced constrictions in a dose-dependent manner, the inhibition of these constrictions was greater in rings treated with halothane than in those treated with isoflurane or sevoflurane when compared at equipotent concentrations. These alkaline-induced constrictions were attenuated by pentobarbital only at the highest concentration of 3 x 10(-4) M. Halothane (1 and 2 MAC) attenuated the constriction induced by hypocapnia to a greater extent than that induced by 15 mM KCl, whereas pentobarbital (10(-4) M and 3 x 10(-4) M) attenuated hypocapnia-induced constriction less than KCl-induced constriction. These results indicate that alkaline-induced constriction is more vulnerable to halothane than other volatile anesthetics and pentobarbital. The mechanisms of the inhibitory effects of halothane and pentobarbital on alkaline-induced cerebral vasoconstriction seem to differ; the inhibitory effect of pentobarbital, but not of halothane may be, in part, ascribed to its inhibitory effect on the Ca++ influx.

Vasodilation of swimbladder vessels in the european eel (Anguilla anguilla) induced by vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, nitric oxide, adenosine and protons

The effects of β-adrenergic stimulation, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), adenosine, the nitric oxide (NO)-releasing agent sodium nitroprusside and of metabolic end-products of gas gland cell metabolism on swimbladder blood flow were investigated using saline- or blood-perfused swimbladder preparations of the freshwater European eel Anguilla anguilla. While β-adrenergic vasodilation was not detectable, a bolus injection of adenosine (100 microl, 10(−)7 mol l-1) and application of VIP (10(−)7 mol kg-1) caused a significant decrease in perfusion pressure in saline-perfused swimbladder preparations. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed the presence of VIP-immunoreactive nerve fibres in the swimbladder artery and in the swimbladder vein (seawater-adapted eels were used for immunohistochemical studies). Application of sodium nitroprusside also elicited a small, but significant, decrease in perfusion pressure in saline-perfused swimbladder preparations, while preincubation of swimbladder tissue with N(ω)nitro-l-arginine, a non-selective inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, significantly enhanced the flow-induced increase in perfusion pressure. Lactate, the major metabolic end-product of gas gland cell metabolism, had no effect on perfusion pressure. In contrast, an increase in proton concentration in both saline- and blood-perfused preparations induced a vasodilation, as indicated by a significant decrease in perfusion pressure. The results demonstrate that VIP, NO, adenosine and protons may induce a vasodilation of swimbladder blood vessels. None of these effects, however, compares in time span with the previously described immediate, short-lasting vasodilation of swimbladder vessels elicited by pulse stimulation of the vagus nerve.

On the cellular mechanism for the effect of acidosis on vascular tone

The role of smooth muscle [Ca2+]i and membrane potential for the relaxation to hypercapnic (increased CO2) and normocapnic (unchanged CO2) acidosis is not complete understood. It is often stated that membrane hyperpolarization plays an important role but this has not been vigorously tested. In this study we investigated isolated rat cerebral small arteries under isobaric conditions. Lumen diameter was measured simultaneously with either [Ca2+]i or membrane potential, and acidosis was induced by increasing PCO2 or reducing HCO3- of the bathing solution or by adding HCI to a nominally bicarbonate-free solution. Confocal microscopy verified loading of smooth muscle cells with fluorescent dyes. Acidosis always reduced myogenic tone at transmural pressures between 20 and 120 mmHg. Acidification at a transmural pressure of 40 mmHg caused an increase in diameter and a decrease in [Ca2+]i. This was also seen in the presence of L-NNA and after depolarization with 50 mM K+. The response to hypercapnic and normocapnic acidosis was similar. However, while hypercapnic acidosis caused hyperpolarization, normocapnic acidosis caused depolarization. Dilatation, decrease of [Ca2+]i and depolarization, was also seen with reduction of pH in bicarbonate-free solution. We conclude that the isobaric relaxation to both hypercapnic and normocapnic acidosis is most likely mediated by a reduction of [Ca2+]i. Membrane potential may on the other hand not play a major role for this reduction of [Ca2+]i and it is possible that molecular CO2 has an effect on the membrane potential.

Involvement of barium-sensitive K+ channels in endothelium-dependent vasodilation produced by hypercapnia in rat mesenteric vascular beds

1. We examined the vasodilatory effect of hypercapnia in the rat isolated mesenteric vascular bed. The preparation was perfused constantly (5 ml min(-1) with oxygenated Krebs-Ringer solution, and the perfusion pressure was measured. In order to keep the extracellular pH (pHe) constant (around 7.35) against a change in CO2, adequate amounts of NaHCO3 were added to Krebs-Ringer solution. 2. In the endothelium intact preparations, an increase in CO2 from 2.5% to 10% in increments of 2.5% decreased the 10 microM phenylephrine (PE)-produced increase in the perfusion pressure in a concentration-dependent manner. Denudation of the endothelium by CHAPS (3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)-dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulphonate) (5 mg l(-1), 90 s perfusion) abolished the vasodilatory effect of hypercapnia. 3. An increase in CO2 from 5% to 10% reduced the increases in the perfusion pressure produced by 10 microM PE and 400 nM U-46619 by 48% and 44%, respectively. NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (100 microM) and indomethacin (10 microM) did not affect the vasodilatory effect of hypercapnia, whereas the vasodilatory response of the preparation to hypercapnia disappeared when the preparation was contracted by 60 mM K+ instead of PE or U-46619. 4. The vasodilatory effect of hypercapnia observed in the PE- or U-46619-precontracted preparation was affected by neither tetraethylammonium (1 mM), apamin (500 microM), glibenclamide (10 microM), nor 4-aminopyridine (1.5 mM). On the other hand, pretreatment with Ba2+ at a concentration of 0.3 mM abolished the hypercapnia-produced vasodilation. 5. An increase in the concentration of K+ in Krebs-Ringer solution from 4.5 mM to 12.5 mM in increments of 2 mM reduced the PE-produced increase in the perfusion pressure in a concentration-dependent manner. Pretreatment of the preparations with not only Ba2+ (0.3 mM) but also CHAPS abolished the vasodilatory effect of K+. 6. The results suggest that an increase in CO2 produces vasodilation by an endothelium-dependent mechanism in the rat mesenteric vascular bed. The membrane hyperpolarization of the endothelial cell by an activation of the inward rectifier K+ channel seems to be the mechanism underlying the hypercapnia-produced vasodilation. Neither nitric oxide nor prostaglandins are involved in this response.

Effect of acidosis on tension and [Ca2+]i in rat cerebral arteries: is there a role for membrane potential?

The cellular mechanism responsible for the reduction of tension in cerebral small arteries to acidosis is not known. In this study the role of smooth muscle intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and membrane potential for the relaxation to acidosis was investigated in isolated rat cerebral small arteries. Isometric force was measured simultaneously with [Ca2+]i (fura 2) or with membrane potential (intracellular microelectrodes), and acidosis was induced by increasing PCO2 or reducing HCO3- of the bathing solution. Both hypercapnic and normocapnic acidosis were associated with a reduction of intracellular pH [measured with 2',7'-bis-(carboxyethyl)-5 (and -6)-carboxyfluorescein], caused relaxation, and reduced [Ca2+]i. However, whereas hypercapnic acidosis caused hyperpolarization, normocapnic acidosis was associated with depolarization. It is concluded that a reduction of [Ca2+]i is in part responsible for the direct effect of the acidosis on the vascular smooth muscle both during normo- and hypercapnia. The mechanism responsible for the reduction of [Ca2+]i differs between the hypercapnic and normocapnic acidosis, being partly explained by hyperpolarization during hypercapnic acidosis, whereas it is seen despite depolarization during normocapnic acidosis.

Volatile anaesthetics attenuate hypocapnia-induced constriction in isolated dog cerebral arteries

PURPOSE

Hypocapnia causes cerebral arterial constriction, whereas volatile anaesthetics cause dilatation. The purpose of this study was to compare the direct effects of halothane, isoflurane and sevoflurane on hypocapnia-induced constriction of isolated cerebral arteries in vitro.

METHODS

Basilar and middle cerebral arteries of mongrel dogs (n = 11) were cut into rings and mounted for isometric tension recording in organ baths containing Krebs' bicarbonate solution, aerated with CO2 5% and O2 95% at 37 degrees C. After constriction with 20 mM KCl, hypocapnia was induced by replacing the aerating gas with CO2 2.5% and O2 97.5% in the presence or absence of anaesthetics.

RESULTS

Exposure of cerebroarterial rings to the hypocapnic gas produced sustained vasoconstriction (418 +/- 19 mg), reaching a plateau within 10 to 15 min. Halothane (0.5, 1, 2 MAC) attenuated the hypocapnia-induced constriction (P < 0.05). In contrast, isoflurane and sevoflurane attenuated this constriction only at 2 MAC (P < 0.05). Attenuation by halothane was greater than that by isoflurane or sevoflurane at each concentration (P < 0.05). NG-nitro-L-arginine (3 x 10(-5) M) did not alter the contractile response to hypocapnia. When a similar degree of constriction was induced by addition of 10 mM KCl, halothane (1 and 2 MAC) preferentially attenuated the constriction induced by hypocapnia to a greater extent than that induced by 10 mM KCl (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Hypocapnia-induced vasoconstriction of isolated dog cerebral arteries precontracted with KCl is more susceptible to halothane than isoflurane or sevoflurane. This may account for the greater increase in cerebral blood flow during halothane than isoflurane or sevoflurane anaesthesia.

Bradykinin dilates rat middle cerebral artery and its large branches via endothelial B2 receptors and release of nitric oxide

Ring segments of rat middle cerebral artery (MCA) were prepared for measurement of isometric force and precontracted with 10(-4) M uridine triphosphate (UTP). Concentration-effect curves (CEC) were constructed for bradykinin (BK, 10(-8)(-10)(-1) M) in segments with functionally intact (E+) or denuded (E-) endothelium. E- segments did not dilate to BK. The BK receptor was characterized by application of specific B1 or B2 antagonists [des-Arg4-Leu8] BK (10(-5) M) and [D-Arg4-Hyp3-Thi5-D-Tic7-Oic8] BK (HOE140, 3 x 10(-7) M), respectively, or B2 agonist [des-Arg9] BK (10(-8)-10(-4) M). Involvement of nitric oxide (NO) was tested with NG-nitro-L-arginine (LNNA, 10(-4) M). BK induced concentration-dependent relaxation with a maximal effect (Emax) of 40.86 +/- 1.50% at 10(-4) M and a pD2 (-log10 EC50) of 6.818 +/- 0.044. This relaxation could be prevented with HOE140 or LNNA, but was not influenced by [des-Arg(9)-Leu] BK. [des-Arg9] BK did not induce any effect. These results demonstrate that BK induced relaxation via endothelial B2 receptors and release of NO in isolated rat MCA.