Alterations in gill structure in tropical reef fishes as a result of elevated temperatures

Tropical regions are expected to be some of the most affected by rising sea surface temperatures (SSTs) because seasonal temperature variations are minimal. As temperatures rise, less oxygen dissolves in water, but metabolic requirements of fish and thus, the demand for effective oxygen uptake, increase. Gill remodelling is an acclimation strategy well documented in freshwater cyprinids experiencing large seasonal variations in temperature and oxygen as well as an amphibious killifish upon air exposure. However, no study has investigated whether tropical reef fishes remodel their gills to allow for increased oxygen demands at elevated temperatures. We tested for gill remodelling in five coral reef species (Acanthochromis polyacanthus, Chromis atripectoralis, Pomacentrus moluccensis, Dascyllus melanurus and Cheilodipterus quinquelineatus) from populations in northern Papua New Guinea (2° 35.765' S; 150° 46.193' E). Fishes were acclimated for 12-14 days to 29 and 31°C (representing their seasonal range) and 33 and 34°C to account for end-of-century predicted temperatures. We measured lamellar perimeter, cross-sectional area, base thickness, and length for five filaments on the 2nd gill arches and qualitatively assessed 3rd gill arches via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). All species exhibited significant differences in the quantitative measurements made on the lamellae, but no consistent trends with temperature were observed. SEM only revealed alterations in gill morphology in P. moluccensis. The overall lack of changes in gill morphology with increasing temperature suggests that these near-equatorial reef fishes may fail to maintain adequate O2 uptake under future climate scenarios unless other adaptive mechanisms are employed.

Per-unit-living tissue normalization of real-time RT-PCR data in ischemic rat hearts

In studies of gene expression in acute ischemic heart tissue, internal reference genes need to show stable expression per-unit-living tissue to hinder dead cells from biasing real-time RT-PCR data. Until now, this important issue has not been appropriately investigated. We hypothesized that the expression of seven internal reference genes would show stable per-unit-living tissue expression in Langendorff-perfused rat hearts subjected to ischemia-reperfusion. This was found for cyclophilin A, GAPDH, RPL-32, and PolR2A mRNA, with GAPDH showing the highest degree of stability (R = 0.11), suggesting unchanged rates of mRNA transcription in live cells and complete degradation of mRNA from dead cells. The infarct size-dependent degradation of GAPDH was further supported by a close correlation between changes in GAPDH mRNA and changes in RNA quality measured as RNA integrity number (R = 0.90, P < 0.05). In contrast, β-actin and 18S rRNA showed stable expression per-unit-weight tissue and a positive correlation with infarct size (R = 0.61 and R = 0.77, P < 0.05 for both analyses). The amount of total RNA extracted per-unit-weight tissue did not differ between groups despite wide variation in infarct size (7.1-50.1%). When β-actin expression was assessed using four different normalization strategies, GAPDH and geNorm provided appropriate per-unit-living expression, while 18S and total RNA resulted in marked underestimations. In studies of ischemic tissues, we recommend using geometric averaging of carefully selected reference genes for normalization of real-time RT-PCR data. A marked shift in the mRNA/rRNA ratio renders rRNA as useless for normalization purposes.

First aid kit for hypoxic survival: sensors and strategies

Survival success under conditions of acute oxygen deprivation depends on efficiency of the central and peripheral chemoreception, optimization of oxygen extraction from the hypoxic environment and its delivery to the periphery, and adjustments of energy production and consumption. This article uses a comparative approach to assess the efficiency of adaptive strategies used by anoxia-tolerant and hypoxia-sensitive species to support survival during the first minutes to 1 h of oxygen deprivation. An aquatic environment is much more demanding in terms of diurnal and seasonal variations of the ambient oxygen availability from anoxia to hyperoxia than is an air environment. Therefore, fishes and aquatic turtles have developed a number of adaptive responses, which are lacking in most of the terrestrial mammals, to cope with these extreme conditions. These include efficient central and peripheral chemoreception, acute changes in respiratory rate and amplitude, and acute increase of the gas-exchange interface. A special set of adaptive mechanisms are engaged in reduction of the energy expenditure of the major oxygen-consuming organs: the brain and the heart. Both reduction of ATP consumption and a switch to alterative energy sources contribute to the maintenance of ATP and ion balance in hypoxia-tolerant animals. Hypoxia and hyperoxia are conditions favoring development of oxidative stress. Efficient protection from oxidation in anoxia-tolerant species includes reduction in the glutamate levels in the brain, stabilization of the mitochondrial function, and maintenance of nitric oxide production under conditions of oxygen deprivation. We give an overview of the current state of knowledge on some selected molecular and cellular acute adaptive mechanisms. These include the mechanisms of chemoreception in adult and neonatal mammals and in fishes, acute metabolic adaptive responses in the brain, and the role of nitrite in the preservation of heart function under hypoxic conditions.

Laser-Doppler flowmetry--a non-invasive and continuous method for blood flow evaluation in microvascular studies

Skin viability has during the last decades been studied by a number of different techniques. Some of these are briefly presented in this paper. One method, based on the laser-Doppler principle, makes possible continuous and noninvasive measurement of blood flow in the outermost layer (1 mm) of the skin. The basic physical principles and the properties of this flowmeter are presented. Some clinical and research applications of laser-Doppler flowmetry in a number of medical disciplines are discussed.

Muscle dysfunction during exercise of a single skeletal muscle in rats with congestive heart failure is not associated with reduced muscle blood supply

AIM

Inadequate muscle blood flow is a possible explanation for reduced fatigue resistance in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF).

METHODS

In rats with post-infarction CHF we electrically stimulated the soleus muscle (SOL) in situ with intact blood supply. Contractile properties, blood flow, high-energy phosphates and metabolites were measured during 30 min of intermittent stimulation, and in addition capillarization of SOL was recorded.

RESULTS

During stimulation, SOL contracted more slowly in rats with CHF compared with sham-operated rats. However, the blood flow in SOL was unaltered and capillary density was maintained in CHF rats. Further, the content of ATP, ADP, AMP, NAD, CrP, P(i) and lactate in SOL was not different between the groups.

CONCLUSION

The cause of contractile dysfunction in a single exercising skeletal muscle in rats with CHF cannot be explained simply by reduced blood supply. In addition, absence of changes in high-energy phosphates and metabolites indicate that the oxidative metabolism of SOL is intact in rats with CHF.

Cardiovascular effects of prostaglandin F(2 alpha) and prostaglandin E(2) in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua)

Little is known of the cardiovascular functions of prostaglandins in non-mammalian vertebrates. There are indications that prostaglandins may have a function in haemostasis by constricting blood vessels in filament arteries in the fish gill after injury. Our aim was to examine the cardiovascular effect of the prostaglandins F(2 alpha) (PGF(2 alpha)) and E(2) (PGE(2)) with emphasis on branchial circulation. Intra-arterial injections of PGF(2 alpha) (10, 40, 160, 400 nmol kg(-1)) in cod caused a dose-dependent increase in ventral aortic blood pressure, a reduction in cardiac output, and an increase in gill vascular resistance. A contraction of filament arteries was observed with in vivo microscopy only seconds after injection. PGF(2 alpha) may therefore possibly be involved in a haemostatic vasoconstriction. In contrast, the most significant effects of PGE(2) appeared to be on the heart. PGE(2) also reduced dorsal aortic blood pressure.

Guidelines for visualization of cutaneous blood flow by laser Doppler perfusion imaging. A report from the Standardization Group of the European Society of Contact Dermatitis based upon the HIRELADO European community project

This report reviews how to set up a laser Doppler perfusion imaging system intended for visualization of skin blood perfusion, capture images and evaluate the results obtained. A brief summary of related papers published in the literature within the areas of skin irritant and allergy patch testing, microdialysis and skin tumour circulation is presented, as well as early applications within other fields such as diabetology, wound healing and microvascular research.

Spectral signature and heterodyne efficiency for different wavelengths in laser Doppler flowmetry

Laser Doppler perfusion monitoring and imaging technologies generate time traces and two-dimensional flow maps of the microcirculation. With the goal of reaching different tissue depths, these technologies are equipped with lasers operating at different wavelengths lambda. The fact that the average scattering angle, at a single scattering event, between a photon and a red blood cell increases with lambda is compensated for by a 1/lambda effect in the scattering vector, rendering the average frequency shift virtually independent of the choice of wavelength. Monte Carlo simulations showed that the corresponding spectral signature of the Doppler signals for lambda = 632.8 nm and 780 nm were close to identical. The theoretical predictions were verified by calculating the centre-of-gravity (COG) frequency of the laser Doppler power spectral density for the two wavelengths from forearm and finger skin, representing a low and high perfusion area, respectively (forearm COG= 123 against 121 Hz, finger COG = 220 against 212 Hz). When the wavelength changes from 632.8 nm to 780 nm, the heterodyne efficiency of the detector and, thereby, the inherent system amplification increase. For tissues with identical microvascular flow conditions, the output signal therefore tends to increase in magnitude when shifting to longer wavelengths.

Surviving anoxia with the brain turned on

Crucian carp is one of few vertebrates that tolerate anoxia. It maintains brain ATP during anoxia partially by reducing ATP consumption. However, unlike turtles, which become comatose during anoxia, this fish remains physically active. This striking difference in anoxic survival strategy is reflected all the way down to the cellular level.

Effect of anoxia and adenosine on cerebral blood flow in the leopard frog (Rana pipiens)

The effect of anoxia on cerebral blood velocity (CBV) on the dorsal surface of telencephalon was examined in the leopard frog, Rana pipiens, using a stereomicroscope. During exposure to anoxia, a transient 228% increase in CBV velocity was seen after 20 min, but CBV fell back to basal values after a further 20 min of anoxia. Topical application of 50 microM adenosine during normoxia caused a 52% increase in CBV, while 250 microM adenosine caused no further increase. At both concentrations, the effect was completely inhibited by the adenosine receptor blocker aminophylline (250 microM). Superfusing the brain with aminophylline during anoxia did not affect the anoxia-induced increase in CBV. We conclude that adenosine can stimulate CBV in R. pipiens. However, unlike in other anoxia-tolerant animals, adenosine seems not to be a main mediator of the anoxia induced increase in CBV in the frog.

Does anoxia induce cell swelling in carp brains? In vivo MRI measurements in crucian carp and common carp

Although both common and crucian carp survived 2 h of anoxia at 18 degrees C, the response of their brains to anoxia was quite different and indicative of the fact that the crucian carp is anoxia tolerant while the common carp is not. Using in vivo T(2) and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we studied anoxia induced changes in brain volume, free water content (T(2)), and water homeostasis (water diffusion coefficient). The anoxic crucian carp showed no signs of brain swelling or changes in brain water homeostasis even after 24 h except for the optic lobes, where cellular edema was indicated. The entire common carp brain suffered from cellular edema, net water gain, and a volume increase (by 6.5%) that proceeded during 100 min normoxic recovery (by 10%). The common carp recovered from this insult, proving that the changes were reversible and suggesting that the oversized brain cavity allows brain swelling during energy deficiency without a resultant increase in intracranial pressure and global ischemia. It is tempting to suggest that this is a function of the large brain cavity seen in many ectothermic vertebrates.

Low mass-specific brain Na+/K+-ATPase activity in elasmobranch compared to teleost fishes: implications for the large brain size of elasmobranchs

Elasmobranch fishes have long been noted for having unusually large brains for ectotherms, and therefore may be exceptions to the rule that vertebrates in general devote less than 8% of their resting metabolic rate to the central nervous system. The brain mass of sharks, skates and rays is often several times larger than that of teleost fishes of the same size. Still, the underlying reasons for this have remained unclear. Ion pumping by the Na+/K+-ATPase is the single most energy consuming process in the brain. In this study, Na+/K+-ATPase activity was measured in the brain of four species of elasmobranchs and 11 species of teleosts. While the average brain mass of the elasmobranchs examined was approximately three times that of the teleosts, the mean specific Na+/K+-ATPase activity was only about one-third of that of the teleosts. Thus, the total brain Na+/K+-ATPase activity was similar in elasmobranchs and teleosts. This suggests that the large brain size of elasmobranchs is at least partly related to a low mass-specific rate of brain energy use.

Branchial and circulatory responses to serotonin and rapid ambient water acidification in rainbow trout

Although the branchial and cardiovascular effects of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) have only partially been characterized, a physiological role for serotonin in the cardiorespiratory responses of fish to environmental changes such as reduced Ph has been suggested. Therefore, we have characterized and compared the effects of serotonin and a rapid reduction of Ph in the ambient water (from pH 8.8 to pH 4.0) on ventral and dorsal aortic blood pressures, heart rate, cardiac output, and arterial pH in rainbow trout, Onchorhynchus mykiss. In addition, the circulation in the branchial microvasculature was observed using in vivo epi-illumination microscopy. The fall in water Ph and injection of serotonin (100 nmol/kg) both increased the branchial resistance and reduced the efferent filamental artery (EFA) blood velocity. Nevertheless, quantitatively, the responses to the two stimuli were different. Although acid exposure caused a much more profound increase in branchial resistance compared with serotonin, the blood flow in the observable distal portion of the EFA was only reduced by 60% in acid water, while it stopped with serotonin. Regardless of the marked branchial resistance elevation, a constriction of the efferent filamental vasculature could not be seen during acid exposure, as occasionally was the case with serotonin. While methysergide completely abolished the serotonin-induced branchial events, it only modestly suppressed the acid-induced reduction of EFA blood velocity. In contrast, all of the systemic changes induced by serotonin and acidic water were insensitive to methysergide. In conclusion, acidic water and injected serotonin elevate the branchial resistance, but the involvement of a serotonergic component in the acidic response appears negligible.

Brain blood flow during hypercapnia in fish: no role of nitric oxide

Very little is known about the regulation of cerebral blood flow (CBF) in lower vertebrates, especially fish. In mammals, hypercapnia causes cerebral vasodilation and increased CBF through mechanisms that involve the production of nitric oxide (NO). We have used epi-illumination microscopy in vivo to observe effects of hypercapnia on venular erythrocyte velocity, used as an index of CBF velocity, in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and crucian carp (Carassius carassius). Rainbow trout exposed to a pCO(2) of 7.5 mmHg displayed a small increase of CBF velocity in two out of five fishes, while dorsal aortic blood pressure (P(DA)) did not change. Exposing trout to a pCO(2) of 22.5 mmHg, resulted in an 80% increase in CBF velocity and a 21% increase in P(DA). Trout exposed to a pCO(2) of 75 mmHg showed an additional increase in blood pressure, while no further increase was seen in CBF velocity compared to a pCO(2) of 22. 5 mmHg. By contrast, no change in CBF velocity was seen in crucian carp, even at a pCO(2) of 75 mmHg. None of the circulatory changes seen in the trout could be blocked by superfusing the brain surface with the NO synthase blocker N(G)-nitro-L-arginine. The results point at striking species differences in the responses of CBF and P(DA) to hypercapnia in fish, and that the hypercapnia induced increase in CBF velocity seen in rainbow trout is independent of NO production.

Effects on skin blood flow by provocation during local analgesia

Although topical analgesia cream has been used for several years, little is known about its effects on the microcirculation. Previous studies have shown a vasoconstrictive effect after short application times and a vasodilatation after longer application. It has also been shown that vasomotion does not occur in the analgesized skin. The present study was undertaken to investigate the alterations in skin blood perfusion following local cooling, local heating and pin-pricking after the establishment of analgesia. In 11 healthy volunteers, skin analgesia was attained by use of a eutectic mixture of lidocaine and prilocaine (EMLA, Astra Pain Control AB, Sweden) applied to the skin three hours prior to provocation. The changes in skin blood perfusion, after applying three different provocation methods, were studied using the laser Doppler technique. Local cooling and heating to temperatures of +10 and +45 degrees C, respectively, were applied for 9 s by use of a copper probe (O12 mm). In the pin-prick provocation method, a combined effect of deflection and penetration of the skin to in total 3 mm was attained. Identical provocation methods were applied to placebo treated and untreated skin areas. After heat provocation, significant differences in the perfusion response between the treatments were seen (P < 0.0001). Skin areas treated with analgesia cream responded with a slow increase in perfusion that persisted beyond the four minute measurement period. Placebo and untreated areas decreased their perfusion over time. After cooling a significant reduction in skin perfusion was seen, irrespective of the treatment. Similarly, after pin-pricking a perfusion increase was seen for all treatments. The findings indicate that topical analgesia influences the myogenic control of the blood flow in those vascular plexa measured by laser Doppler following heat provocation. No differences could be seen in the response to pin-pricking and cooling for the different treatments.

Tissue-specific changes in RNA synthesis in vivo during anoxia in crucian carp

The overall energy budget for protein synthesis (i.e., transcription plus translation) is thought to consist of fixed and variable components, with RNA synthesis accounting for the former and protein synthesis the latter. During anoxia, the downregulation of protein synthesis (i.e., the variable component), to reduce energetic demand, is an important aspect of survival in crucian carp. The present study examines RNA synthesis during anoxia by labeling with [(3)H]uridine. A novel synthesis rate calculation is presented, which allows for the tissue-specific salvage of uridine, with synthesis rates finally expressed relative to DNA. After 48 h anoxia, the decline (29%) in brain RNA synthesis and increases in the heart and liver (132 and 871%, respectively) support known RNA functions during hypoxic/anoxic survival. This study provides evidence that, in an anoxia-tolerant species, survival mechanisms involving RNA are able to operate because tissue-specific restructuring of the RNA synthesis process enables fixed synthesis costs to be maintained; this may be as vital to survival as exploiting the variable energetic demand of protein synthesis.

Principles and practice of the laser-Doppler perfusion technique

This paper reviews the development and use of laser-Doppler perfusion monitors and imagers over the past two decades. The enormous interest in microvascular blood perfusion coupled with the 'ease of use' of the technique has led to 1500+ publications citing its use. However, useful results can only be achieved with an understanding of the basic principles of the instrumentation and its application in the various clinical disciplines. The basic theoretical background is explored and definitions of blood perfusion and laser-Doppler perfusion are established. The calibration method is then described together with potential routes to standardisation. A guide to the limitations in application of the technique gives the user a clear indication of what can be achieved in new studies as well as possible inadequacy in some published investigations.

Relationships between sex and the size and number of forebrain gonadotropin-releasing hormone-immunoreactive neurones in the ballan wrasse (Labrus berggylta), a protogynous hermaphrodite

This study is the first to examine the brain gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) cell population phenotype in a protogynous and monandric sequentially hermaphroditic fish. Male ballan wrasse (Labrus berggylta) had on average higher numbers of GnRH-immunoreactive (GnRH-ir) cells within the brain preoptic area (POA) than females, a difference not found in GnRH-ir cells in other brain regions. Furthermore, in males, but not females, the number of these POA GnRH-ir cells correlated with body size. Maturational state (prespawning or postspawning) had marked effects on mean profile sizes (but not numbers) of both GnRH-ir cell bodies and cell nuclei, even when existing differences in body size and allometric relationships had been taken into account. Postspawning males tended to have larger GnRH-ir profiles in all brain regions relative to both prespawning males and females. Moreover, the GnRH-ir cell number in POA, and the cell body profile size in both POA and at the level of the anterior commissure, correlated with gonad size in spermiated prespawning males, indicating a relationship between both size and number of GnRH cells and male gonadal development. These results suggest that temporary changes in the size of brain GnRH-ir neurones are coupled to the male spawning cycle, and that permanent POA GnRH-ir cell number changes are involved in the process of sex change in sequential hermaphrodites. However, smaller males had no more preoptic GnRH-ir cells than equally sized females, which may argue against a proximate inducing role of GnRH cell number changes in naturally occurring sex reversal.

Hypoxia stimulates cerebral blood flow in the estuarine crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)

The effect of N2 respiration on cerebral blood flow (CBF) velocity on the dorsal surface of cerebellum was examined in the estuarine crocodile, Crocodylus porosus, using epi-illumination microscopy. Twelve minutes of N2 respiration resulted in a 126% increase in CBF velocity. N2 respiration had no effect on blood pressure, indicating an underlying cerebral vasodilation. In addition, heart rate increased significantly. Systemic injections of aminophylline and the NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor nitro-L-arginine (L-NA) did not affect the hypoxia induced increase in CBF. We conclude that C. porosus responds to hypoxia with adenosine and nitric oxide (NO) independent cerebral vasodilation, and that this is likely to be a mechanism protecting the brain from energy deficiency during prolonged dives.

Cardiovascular and gill microcirculatory effects of endothelin-1 in atlantic cod: evidence for pillar cell contraction

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) has been shown to cause a considerable increase in the vascular resistance of fish gills. In trout, recent evidence suggest that this is the result of pillar cell contraction in the gill lamellae. Using epi-illumination microscopy to observe the gill lamellae of anaesthetised Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), we show that ET-1 (100 ng kg-1, injected into the ventral aorta) causes an increase in pillar cell diameter, consistent with pillar cell contraction, and a shift of intralamellar blood flow from the lamellar sheet to the outer marginal channels. Simultaneously, there was an increase in ventral aortic blood pressure, a reduction in cardiac output, an increase in gill vascular resistance and a reduction in the oxygen partial pressure of venous blood. All these effects were blocked by the ETA/ETB receptor antagonist bosentan (5 mg kg-1). Pillar cell contraction is likely to be a mechanism for matching the functional respiratory surface area with the instantaneous respiratory needs of the fish.

Brain blood flow and blood pressure during hypoxia in the epaulette shark Hemiscyllium ocellatum, a hypoxia-tolerant elasmobranch

The key to surviving hypoxia is to protect the brain from energy depletion. The epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) is an elasmobranch able to resist energy depletion and to survive hypoxia. Using epi-illumination microscopy in vivo to observe cerebral blood flow velocity on the brain surface, we show that cerebral blood flow in the epaulette shark is unaffected by 2 h of severe hypoxia (0.35 mg O2 l-1 in the respiratory water, 24 C). Thus, the epaulette shark differs from other hypoxia- and anoxia-tolerant species studied: there is no adenosine-mediated increase in cerebral blood flow such as that occurring in freshwater turtles and cyprinid fish. However, blood pressure showed a 50 % decrease in the epaulette shark during hypoxia, indicating that a compensatory cerebral vasodilatation occurs to maintain cerebral blood flow. We observed an increase in cerebral blood flow velocity when superfusing the normoxic brain with adenosine (making sharks the oldest vertebrate group in which this mechanism has been found). The adenosine-induced increase in cerebral blood flow velocity was reduced by the adenosine receptor antagonist aminophylline. Aminophylline had no effect upon the maintenance of cerebral blood flow during hypoxia, however, indicating that adenosine is not involved in maintaining cerebral blood flow in the epaulette shark during hypoxic hypotension.

Extracellular levels of amino acid neurotransmitters during anoxia and forced energy deficiency in crucian carp brain

The crucian carp is one of the few vertebrates that has the ability to survive long periods of anoxia. A devastating event in the anoxic mammalian brain is a massive release of excitatory neurotransmitters, particularly glutamate. Using microdialysis to measure extracellular levels of several amino acid neurotransmitters and related compounds in the telencephalon of crucian carp in vivo, we show here that this species avoids a release of glutamate during anoxia, which is probably related to its ability to maintain energy charge. Instead, 6 h of anoxia produced a doubling of the extracellular level of GABA, the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in brain. The release of GABA may be a mechanism for lowering neuronal activity and energy use, thereby facilitating the maintenance of energy charge. Perfusing the microdialysis probe with a high-K+ Ringer showed that the telencephalon had the ability to release both glutamate and GABA. Moreover, if energy deficiency was produced during anoxia, by inhibiting glycolysis with iodoacetate (IAA), the resulting release of GABA was more rapid and profound than that of glutamate, possibly reflecting a second line of anoxia defence aimed at minimising the effect of a temporary energy failure.

Acute defense mechanisms against hemorrhage from mechanical gill injury in rainbow trout

By cutting gill filaments in anesthetized rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), observing the bleeding through a stereomicroscope, and using blockers of various known endogenous filament artery vasoconstrictors, we have here attempted to characterize hemostatic mechanisms in gills. The immediate hemostatic response to a cut in a gill filament artery was a local vasoconstriction, stopping the hemorrhage within approximately 20 s. In heparinized fish, the hemorrhage recommenced after approximately 8 min, suggesting that the vasoconstriction soon subsides and blood clotting becomes responsible for the hemostasis. Antagonists of acetylcholine, adenosine, and serotonin receptors were unable to block the hemostatic vasoconstriction. Also, tetrodotoxin was without effect, indicating a nonnervous origin. By contrast, indomethacin significantly affected the measured bleeding times, suggesting that eicosanoids play a significant role in this process (possibly by stimulating vasoconstriction and/or by inducing local thrombocyte aggregation). By possessing several hundred virtually identical filaments with readily observable vasculature, the fish gill appears to be a good experimental model for studying hemostatic mechanisms.

A note on the compartmental analysis and related issues in laser Doppler flowmetry

Compartmental analysis (CA) in laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) means deciphering the nutritional and thermoregulating flows from the measured perfusion flux. Based on the new theories proposed in [1] and [2], the CA is formulated here as an optimal approximation without directly involving the geometric information of the vessel network. It is seen that this approximation approach could also solve the biological zero (BZ) problem simultaneously, therefore, it actually provides a systematic solution to the BZ problem without estimating the BZ flux experimentally. In addition, the BZ problem with compartmental differences is reformulated, and the condition under which multiple compartments can be treated as a single one is investigated. The result, together with some computer simulations, showed that the theory in [2] is still an easy and useful approximation in practice. This note serves as an useful supplement to [1] and [2] and may help to solve and clarify some critical problems in LDF.

A mathematical analysis on the biological zero problem in laser Doppler flowmetry

The biological zero (BZ) problem is a critical issue inherent in laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). It causes confusion when measuring low tissue blood flows. Many experimental studies have been done on the question of whether the BZ flux should be subtracted from the normally measured flux in various situations. However this problem can only be solved after a proper mathematical analysis. Only then can we clearly define and formulate what flux is truly meaningful in blood perfusion measurement and what movement generates the BZ flux and how can we correctly remove it. Following this motivation, the movement of moving blood cells (MBC's) is decomposed into a net translation and a random wondering based on in vivo observations. This important step leads to a clear definition of the BZ and net perfusion flux and reveals that subtraction of BZ flux from the normal flux will certainly cause an underestimation of the net flux. Using this decomposition, the relationship between the net, BZ and normal flux is established which leads to the correct formula to recover the net flux from the BZ and normal fluxes. This recovered net flux is shown to be bounded by the normal flux and the normal flux minus the BZ flux. Numerical studies, preliminary phantom model and clinical evaluations manifest that the new approach is more accurate and reasonable at measuring low net fluxes. In contrast, subtracting BZ flux causes a systematic underestimation of perfusion and is apparently inappropriate even from a methodological point of view. In addition to the novel BZ solution, a general density function of the speed of MBC's is given which is more faithful than the Maxwell density used in [4]. This general density function offers new possibilities for further theoretical developments in LDF.

Comparative aspects on nitric oxide in brain and its role as a cerebral vasodilator

Histological studies have detected nitric oxide (NO) synthase in the central nervous system of all vertebrates examined, from lampreys to mammals. However, there are still very few comparative physiological studies on the function of NO synthase in the brain of non-mammalian vertebrates. So far, we know that acetylcholine can cause an NO-dependent increase in brain blood flow in turtles and some fish species (crucian carp and rainbow trout), whereas some other fishes appear to lack such a mechanism. Hypercapnia can induce NO-dependent cerebral vasodilation in mammals, but such a mechanism appears to be lacking in the ectothermic vertebrates examined. The number of species studied needs to be expanded before we can draw any firm conclusions about the origin of NO-dependent brain blood flow regulation: if it has evolved more than once or if it has been occasionally lost during evolution. We conclude that NO synthase may be present in all vertebrate brains but that its functions can vary, as judged from its role in cerebral blood flow regulation. The diversity of functions that NO has proven to have within the mammalian brain is likely to be paralleled by the same degree of diversity of function between vertebrate groups.

Anoxic depression of light-evoked potentials in retina and optic tectum of crucian carp

The crucian carp is an exceptionally anoxia-tolerant vertebrate. For the brain, with its very high rate of ATP use, depression of energy use is likely to be an important strategy for anoxic survival. This study shows that the light-evoked response of the retina and the corresponding evoked potential in optic tectum decrease in amplitude by 69 and 75%, respectively, during 38 min of anoxia, and by about 90% after 1 h in anoxia. Both responses were restored upon reoxygenation. The length of light exposure (5 s or 100 ms) did not affect the degree of anoxic depression. These results are the first to show an anoxia-induced depression of central nervous system (CNS) activity in vivo in this species, and indicate that the crucian carp temporarily turns off its visual sense in order to reduce neural energy use during anoxic condition.

Brain Na+/K+-ATPase activity in two anoxia tolerant vertebrates: crucian carp and freshwater turtle

The crucian carp (Carassius carassius) and freshwater turtles (Trachemys scripta) are among the very few vertebrates that can survive extended periods of anoxia. The major problem for an anoxic brain is energy deficiency. In the brain, the Na+/K+-ATPase is the single most ATP consuming enzyme, being responsible for maintaining ion gradients. We here show that the Na+/K+-ATPase activity in the turtle brain is reduced by 31% in telencephalon and by 34% in cerebellum after 24 h of anoxia. Both changes were reversed upon reoxygenation. By contrast, the Na+/K+-ATPase activities were maintained in the anoxic crucian carp brain. These results support the notion that crucian carp and turtles use divergent strategies for anoxic survival. The fall in Na+/K+-ATPase activities displayed by the turtle is likely to be related to the strong depression of brain electric and metabolic activity utilized as an anoxic survival strategy by this species.

Serotonin as a regulator of hypothalamic-pituitary-interrenal activity in teleost fish

Evidence for the presence of a serotonin1A (5-HT1A) receptor subtype in the salmonid fish brain has recently been presented. In the present study the potent 5-HT1A receptor agonist, 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)-tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) was tested for its effect on plasma cortisol concentrations in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Blood was sampled and 8-OH-DPAT administered through a catheter in the dorsal aorta. Thirty minutes after the injection of 40 microg of 8-OH-DPAT/kg, plasma cortisol levels had increased from 12 to 149 ng/ml, whereupon they fell, reaching baseline levels after 4 h. The effect of 1-40 microg 8-OH-DPAT/kg on plasma cortisol concentrations was dose-dependent. The results lends further support to the hypothesis that the brain serotonergic system plays a key role in integrating autonomic, behavioral and neuroendocrine stress-responses in fish as well as mammals, suggesting that not only the structural and biochemical organization, but also the function of the serotonergic system has been conserved during vertebrate evolution.

Effects of L-thyroxine on brain monoamines during parr-smolt transformation of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.)

During spring, seaward migrating juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) undergo parr-smolt transformation (PST) which involves changes in physiology, including one or two peaks in plasma thyroxine (T4). To investigate if changes in plasma T4 influence neural function, we measured levels of dopamine (DA) and its metabolites, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and homovanillic acid (HVA), and also measured serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) and its metabolite, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in brain regions of two groups of Atlantic salmon parr on an 8:16 h light/dark photoperiod. One group was treated with ambient T4 to simulate the natural smolt peak in plasma T4. T4 treatment depressed DOPAC levels as well as DOPAC/DA and 5-HIAA/5-HT ratios in the olfactory system but with no changes in the optic tectum. We conclude that during PST monoaminergic functions in specific brain regions of juvenile Atlantic salmon are affected by T4 treatment.

Neurochemical mechanisms behind gill microcirculatory responses to hypoxia in trout: in vivo microscopy study

In vivo microscopy combined with systemic blood flow and pressure measurements were used to examine the hemodynamic and microcirculatory responses to hypoxia in gills of rainbow trout and to clarify if the underlying mechanisms are adrenergic, cholinergic, serotonergic, or adenosinergic. Hypoxia (P(O2) 1.07-1.33 kPa) reduced, halted, or reversed the blood flow in the distal portion of the efferent filamental artery (EFA). Simultaneously, a large overflow to the central venous system appeared, allowing a continuous flow through many of the secondary lamellae. No vasoconstriction could be observed in this portion of the filament, showing that a vasoconstriction occurred elsewhere, possibly at the EFA sphincter, because the gill resistance (R(G)) increased. These effects were mimicked by prebranchial injection of acetylcholine, a treatment that also strongly constricted the distal efferent filamental vasculature. Atropine blocked most of the hypoxia-induced hemodynamic changes, although a minor increase in R(G) remained. The latter appeared to be of a nonadrenergic noncholinergic origin, being unaffected by additional treatment with an alpha-adrenoreceptor antagonist. It was also unaffected by blockers of serotonin and adenosine-A1 receptors. Other responses seen included a cholinergic maintenance of the systemic resistance during hypoxia and an alpha-adrenoceptor-mediated posthypoxic hypertension. This study demonstrates that hypoxia evoked a cholinergic reflex vasoconstriction located at proximal parts of the efferent filamental vasculature.

Effects of inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis and of hypercapnia on blood pressure and brain blood flow in the turtle

In the mammalian brain, nitric oxide (NO) is responsible for a vasodilatory tonus as well as the elevation of cerebral blood flow (CBF) induced by hypercapnia. There have been few comparative studies of cerebral vasoregulation in lower vertebrates. Using epi-illumination microscopy in vivo to observe CBF velocity on the brain surface (cerebral cortex), we show that turtles (Trachemys scripta) exposed to hypercapnia (inspired PCO2 = 4.9 kPa) displayed a 62% increase in CBF velocity, while systemic blood pressure remains constant. Exposing turtles to a PCO2 of 14.9 kPa caused an additional increase in CBF velocity, to 104% above control values, as well as a 30% increase in systemic blood pressure. The elevated CBF velocity during hypercapnia could not be blocked by a systemic injection of the NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine (L-NA). However, L-NA injection caused a temporary stop in CBF as well as a persistent increase in systemic blood pressure, suggesting that there is a NO tonus that is attenuated by the NOS inhibitor and that CBF is strongly dependent on this tonus, although compensatory mechanisms exist. Thus, although the cerebrovascular reaction to hypercapnia appeared to be NO-independent, the results suggest that there is a NO-dependent vasodilatory tonus affecting both cerebral and systemic blood circulation in this species.

Superficial blood flow following photodynamic therapy of malignant non-melanoma skin tumours measured by laser Doppler perfusion imaging

Laser Doppler perfusion imaging offers a new modality for in vivo monitoring of the superficial blood perfusion in biological tissue. In this study, the superficial blood perfusion of malignant non-melanoma skin tumours and the surrounding normal skin was measured in conjunction with photodynamic therapy (PDT) using topical delta-aminolaevulinic acid (ALA)-induced protoporphyrin IX as a photosensitizer. The results clearly show that, in contradiction to PDT with the intravenously administered photosensitizer Photofrin, no direct vascular damage can be seen. With the topical sensitization the blood perfusion is increased immediately after the treatment irradiation. The increased blood flow is seen up to a week after treatment, in a similar way as for an inflammatory reaction. Despite this, all basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in situ lesions in this study healed without any sign of residual tumour after the treatment, suggesting an efficient direct tumour cell destruction induced by PDT.

Contrasting strategies for anoxic brain survival--glycolysis up or down

Anoxia-tolerant turtles and carp (Carassius) exhibit contrasting strategies for anoxic brain survival. In the turtle brain, the energy consumption is deeply depressed to the extent of producing a comatose-like state. Brain metabolic depression is brought about by activating channel arrest to reduce ion flux and through the release of inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and the upregulation of GABAA receptors. Key glycolytic enzymes are down-regulated during prolonged anoxia. The result is a suppression of neurotransmission and a substantial depression in brain electrical activity. By contrast, Carassius remain active during anoxia, though at a reduced level. As in the turtle, there is an adenosine-mediated increase in brain blood flow but, in contrast to the turtle, this increase is sustained throughout the anoxic period. Key glycolytic enzymes are up-regulated and anaerobic glycolysis is enhanced. There is no evidence of channel arrest in Carassius brain. The probable result is that electrical activity in the brain is not suppressed but instead maintained at a level sufficient to regulate and control the locomotory and sensory activities of the anoxic carp. The key adaptations permitting the continued high level of glycolysis in Carassius are the production and excretion of ethanol as the glycolytic end-product, which avoids self-pollution by lactate produced during glycolysis that occurs in other vertebrates.

A role for adenosine in metabolic depression in the marine invertebrate Sipunculus nudus

Involvement of neurotransmitters in metabolic depression under hypoxia and hypercapnia was examined in Sipunculus nudus. Concentration changes of several putative neurotransmitters in nervous tissue during anoxic or hypercapnic exposure or during combined anoxia and hypercapnia were determined. Among amino acids (gamma-aminobutyric acid, glutamate, glycine, taurine, serine, and aspartate) and monoamines (serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine), some changes were significant, but none were consistent with metabolic depression under all experimental conditions applied. Only the neuromodulator adenosine displayed concentration changes in accordance with metabolic depression under all experimental conditions. Levels increased during anoxia, during hypercapnia, and to an even greater extent during anoxic hypercapnia. Adenosine infusions into coelomic fluid via an indwelling catheter induced a significant depression of the normocapnic rate of O2 consumption from 0.36 +/- 0.04 to a minimum of 0.24 +/- 0.02 (SE) mumol.g-1.h-1 after 90 min (n = 6). Application of the adenosine antagonist theophylline caused a transient rise in O2 consumption 30 min after infusion during hypercapnia but not during normocapnia. Effects of adenosine and theophylline were observed in intact individuals but not in isolated body wall musculature. The results provide evidence for a role of adenosine in inducing metabolic depression in S. nudus, probably through the established effects of decreasing neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter release. In consideration of our previous finding that metabolic depression in isolated body wall musculature was elicited by extracellular acidosis, it is concluded that central and cellular mechanisms combine to contribute to the overall reduction in metabolic rate in S. nudus.

Tissue-specific changes in protein synthesis rates in vivo during anoxia in crucian carp

Mechanisms of anoxia tolerance were investigated in crucian carp. Rates of protein synthesis were calculated in selected tissues of normoxic and anoxic animals. Exposure to 48 h of anoxia resulted in a significant reduction in protein synthesis in the liver (> 95%), heart (53%), and red and white muscle (52 and 56%, respectively), whereas brain protein synthesis rates were unaffected. Seven days of anoxia produced similar results. After 24 h of recovery from a 48-h anoxic period, protein synthesis rates had virtually returned to normoxic values. The effect of anoxia on the amount of RNA (relative to protein) varied depending on the tissue and also the length of exposure (except in the brain, where it was consistently reduced). However, the effect on RNA translational efficiency was purely tissue specific (i.e., independent of exposure time) and was unaffected in the heart, reduced in the liver and red and white muscle, and increased in the brain. Downregulation of protein synthesis on a tissue-specific basis appears to be a significant mechanism for energy conservation as well as maintaining neural function, thus promoting survival during anoxia.

Laser Doppler perfusion imaging of eyelid skin

We report an initial laser Doppler perfusion study of the eyelids and compare the results with those of other cutaneous regions. Eleven healthy subjects with no prior medical or surgical history, or eyelid malposition underwent laser Doppler perfusion scanning of six skin locations: right forearm, right middle fingertip, right upper eyelid, right lower eyelid, left upper eyelid, and left lower eyelid. Cutaneous perfusion in the four eyelid locations and right middle fingertip were statistically similar to each other but significantly higher than that in the right forearm (p = 0.002). Also, mean perfusion in pretarsal skin was > 50% than that in preseptal skin (p = 0.002). In addition, in an eyelid with histopathologically documented basal cell carcinoma, cutaneous perfusion was significantly higher than the mean of the normal eyelids (p = 0.002). Eyelids are perfused at the same high rate as are other regions of the head, and significantly higher than low flow regions, such as the extremities. Future application of this laser Doppler perfusion scanning include assessing burn depth, postoperative monitoring of periorbital tissue transfer, distinguishing benign and malignant adnexal skin lesions, and establishing the pathologic margins of lid tumors.

Duplex laser Doppler perfusion imaging

A duplex mode for recoding of both spatial and temporal blood perfusion components has been developed and evaluated. This modality, which has been implemented as a software module in the laser Doppler perfusion imager, consists of various local area scan (LAS) configurations. These include single-point recording or multipoint recording after repeated movements of the laser beam in quadratic patterns including 2 x 2 or 4 x 4 measurement sites. For the 2 x 2 and 4 x 4 LAS, the output value constitutes the average perfusion of all values captured within the actual region of interest. The 2 x 2 local area scan is corrected by time shifting the sequentially recorded measurement values at consecutive tissue sites, while the 4 x 4 LAS is presented as a vector of the individual subimages. With the standard setting of 65 msec for the signal integration time at each measurement site, the 1 x 1 and 2 x 2 LAS configurations can capture and reproduce perfusion signals with maximal bandwidths of 7.7 and 1.9 Hz, respectively. System evaluation showed that the signal integration time can be reduced to 45 msec without impaired signal quality, thereby further increasing the system bandwidth with a factor of about 1.5. Skin recordings showed that averaged time traces of adjacent measurement sites improve the signal-to-noise ration and allow for a more reliable analysis of, for example, the reactive hyperemic response. Individual time-trace extraction, however, showed reperfusion patterns that differed markedly between sites.

Branchial and systemic roles of adenosine receptors in rainbow trout: an in vivo microscopy study

The purinergic branchial vasomotor control in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) was studied using an epi-illumination microscope equipped with a water-immersion objective. Cardiac output (Q), heart rate, and dorsal (PDA) and ventral (PVA) aortic pressures were recorded simultaneously. Prebranchial injection of adenosine or the A1-receptor agonist N6-cyclopentyl-adenosine (CPA) constricted the distal portion of the filament vasculature, which coincided with an increase of PVA. The A2-receptor agonist PD-125944 was without effect. After adenosine and CPA injection, an overflow of blood to the secondary system was repeatedly observed unless blood flow came to a complete stop. The lack of a concomitant reduction of Q suggested a redistribution of blood to the secondary system and to more proximal parts of the filament. The branchial effects of adenosine and CPA were completely blocked by the unspecific adenosine receptor antagonist amino-phylline and the specific A1-receptor antagonist N6-cyclopen-tyltheophylline. The results suggest that A1-receptors alone mediate the branchial vasoconstriction observed. Thus the responses of the branchial vasculature to adenosine include a vasoconstriction of the filament vasculature mediated via specific A1 receptors and a redistribution of blood flow to the secondary system and to proximal parts of the filament. Additional cardiovascular effects of adenosine included decreased systemic vascular resistance and heart rate.

Role of nitric oxide in the elevation of cerebral blood flow induced by acetylcholine and anoxia in the turtle

Nitric oxide (NO)-dependent regulation of brain blood flow has hitherto not been studied in reptiles. By observing the brain surface (telencephalon) of the freshwater turtle (Trachemys scripta) with epiillumination microscopy, we show that topical application of acetylcholine (ACh) induces an increase in CBF velocity that can be completely blocked by the NO synthase inhibitor N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). The effect of L-NAME was reversed by L-arginine. Also, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), which decomposes to liberate NO, caused an increase in CBF velocity. By contrast, L-NAME could not block the increase in blood flow velocity caused by anoxia. Interestingly, superfusing the brain with ACh or SNP during anoxia had no effect on the blood flow velocity. The results suggest that NO is an endogenous vasodilator in the turtle brain, mediating the effects of ACh during normoxia. By contrast, anoxia does not rely on NO as a vasodilator.

Agonistic interactions affect brain serotonergic activity in an acanthopterygiian fish: the bicolor damselfish (Pomacentrus partitus)

Bicolor damselfish were allowed to interact in pairs for 15 min a day during a five-day period. Agonistic behaviour was quantified, and at the end of the experimental series, concentrations of serotonin (5-HT), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) and tryptophan (TRP, the amino acid precursor of 5-HT) were measured, and 5-HIAA/5-HT ratios (an index of 5-HT activity) were calculated in the telencephalon, hypothalamus and brain stem. Socially interacting fish, dominant as well as subordinate, showed higher telencephalic 5-HIAA/5-HT ratios than isolated controls. Social interaction also decreased telencephalic TRP concentrations in subordinate fish but did not affect 5-HT concentrations in any of the brain parts. In subordinate fish, 5-HIAA/5-HT ratios in the telencephalon were positively correlated with the number of aggressive acts received. Moreover, in dominant fish 5-HIAA/5-HT ratios in the hypothalamus were positively correlated with the number of aggressive acts performed. These results indicate that the brain serotonergic system is involved in intraspecific aggression and/or stress reactions in bicolor damselfish.

Anoxia tolerant animals from a neurobiological perspective

This paper discusses the mechanisms for brain anoxia survival seen in crucian carp (Carassius carassius) and a few species of freshwater turtle (Chrysemys and Trachemys species). Comparisons are made with the hypoxic tolerant mammalian neonate brain. In the anoxic tolerant species the basic strategy for anoxia survival appears to be the maintenance of ion gradients, and thereby the avoidance of anoxic depolarization. Important facilitating factors involve having huge glycogen stores, increased blood supply to the brain, the suppression of electrical activity, increased release of inhibitory neuromodulators and neurotransmitters, upregulation of inhibitory neuroreceptors, the down-regulation of excitatory ion conductance and the down-regulation of Ca2+ channels. By contrast, for the mammalian neonate the most important causes of its increased hypoxia tolerance may be just simple consequences of the comparatively undifferentiated state of the brain of the newborn, with its lower energy requirements, slower decline in ATP and lower excitability levels acting to delay depolarization.

Anoxic brain failure in an ectothermic vertebrate: release of amino acids and K+ in rainbow trout thalamus

The release of excitatory amino acids such as glutamate contributes greatly to anoxic and/or ischemic brain damage in mammals. However, for anoxia-intolerant ectothermic vertebrates, there has been no information on how anoxia affects extracellular amino acid levels, or how such changes relate temporally to major ion movements. We have investigated the effects of environmental anoxia on extracellular amino acid and K+ concentrations in rainbow trout thalamus in vivo at 15 degrees C, using microdialysis and K(+)-selective microelectrodes. Systemic blood pressure was also monitored. In separate experiments, endogenous neurotransmitter release was provoked by perfusing the microdialysis probe with a high-K+ Ringer solution, thereby establishing which amino acids are released by depolarization. Anoxia exposure resulted in the release of several amino acids, including glutamate, aspartate, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glycine, and taurine. GABA release appeared to be delayed compared with that of glutamate, for example. The loss of ion homeostasis (starting after 23 min) preceded the release of amino acids (starting after > or = 45 min). The amino acid release had no apparent effect on the rate of increase in extracellular K+. Thus, if these events are interrelated, the loss of ion homeostasis is likely to trigger the amino acid release but not vice versa.

Nitric oxide synthase inhibitor blocks acetylcholine induced increase in brain blood flow in rainbow trout

Nitric oxide (NO) dependent regulation of blood flow has hitherto not been demonstrated in rainbow trout or other salmonid fish. Through in vivo observations of the brain surface (optic lobes) of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) with epi-illumination microscopy, we show that application of acetylcholine (ACh) to the brain surface induces an increase in cerebral blood flow velocity that can be completely blocked by the NO synthase inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine. Also sodium nitroprusside, which decomposes to form NO, stimulated cerebral blood flow velocity. The results indicate that NO is a vasodilator in rainbow trout brain, mediating the effect of ACh.

Control of gill filament blood flow by serotonin in the rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss

The effects of exogenously applied serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] on the distal arterial vasculature of gill filaments were observed using an epi-illumination microscope equipped with a water-immersion objective and connected to a video camera. In addition, ventral aortic flow (Q) and celiac artery pressure (PCA) were measured. Intra-arterial injection of serotonin (100 nmol/kg) completely stopped the blood flow in the distal part of the filaments and caused a rapid decrease of PCA. Repeatedly, the flow reduction was found to coincide with a constriction of the distal portion of the efferent filamental vasculature. Because there was no concomitant reduction in Q, it is concluded that a redistribution of blood to more proximal parts of the filaments occurred. After treatment with the serotonergic receptor antagonist methysergide, the vasoconstrictor effect of serotonin on the filamental vasculature was eliminated, while a decrease in PCA was still observed. The results demonstrate a specific site(s) for the serotonergic vasoconstriction in the distal portion of the filament.

Evidence that acetylcholine mediates increased cerebral blood flow velocity in crucian carp through a nitric oxide-dependent mechanism

Nitric oxide (NO)-dependent regulation of brain blood flow has not been proved to exist in fish or other ectothermic vertebrates. Using epi-illumination microscopy on the brain surface (optic lobes) of crucian carp (Carassius carassius), we show that superfusing the brain with acetylcholine (ACh) induces an increase in cerebral blood flow velocity that can be completely blocked by the NO synthase inhibitors NG-nitro-L-arginine methylester (L-NAME) and NG-nitro-L-arginine. Also, sodium nitroprusside, which decomposes to liberate NO, causes an increase in cerebral blood flow velocity. By contrast, L-NAME does not block the increase in blood flow velocity caused by anoxia. The results suggest that NO is an endogenous vasodilator in crucian carp brain that mediates the effects of ACh. Because teleost fish deviated from other vertebrates 400 million years ago, these results suggest that NO-dependent brain blood flow regulation was an early event in vertebrate evolution.

Time course of anoxia-induced increase in cerebral blood flow rate in turtles: evidence for a role of adenosine

The exceptional ability of the turtle brain to survive prolonged anoxia makes it a unique model for studying anoxic survival mechanisms. We have used epi-illumination microscopy to record blood flow rate in venules on the cortical surface of turtles (Trachemys scripta). During anoxia, blood flow rate increased 1.7 times after 45-75 min, whereupon it fell back, reaching preanoxic values after 115 min of anoxia. Topical superfusion with adenosine (50 microM) during normoxia caused a 3.8-fold increase in flow rate. Superfusing the brain with the adenosine receptor blocker aminophylline (250 microM) totally inhibited the effects of both adenosine and anoxia, while aminophylline had no effect on normoxic flow rate. None of the treatments affected systemic blood pressure. These results indicate an initial adenosine-mediated increase in cerebral blood flow rate during anoxia, probably representing an emergency response before deep metabolic depression sets in.

Anoxia and adenosine induce increased cerebral blood flow rate in crucian carp

The crucian carp (Carassius carassius) has the rare ability to survive prolonged anoxia, indicating an extraordinary capacity for glycolytic ATP production, especially in a highly energy-consuming organ like the brain. For the brain to be able to increase its glycolytic flux during anoxia and profit from the large liver glycogen store, an increased glucose delivery from the blood would be expected. Nevertheless, the effect of anoxia on brain blood flow in crucian carp has never been studied previously. We have used epireflection microscopy to directly observe and measure blood flow rate on the brain surface (optic lobes) during normoxia and anoxia in crucian carp. We have also examined the possibility that adenosine participates in the regulation of brain blood flow rate in crucian carp. The results showed a 2.16-fold increase in brain blood flow rate during anoxia. A similar increase was seen after topical application of adenosine during normoxia, while adenosine was without effect during anoxia. Moreover, superfusing the brain with the adenosine receptor blocker aminophylline inhibited the effect of anoxia on brain blood flow rate, clearly suggesting a mediatory role of adenosine in the anoxia-induced increase in brain blood flow rate.

Spatial heterogeneity in normal skin perfusion recorded with laser Doppler imaging and flowmetry

Spatial and temporal variations in forearm skin perfusion captured by laser Doppler perfusion imaging (LDI) have been compared with topographic maps recorded by laser Doppler flowmetry. In order to determine the shortest LDI sampling time required at each measurement site, with an adequate signal-to-noise ratio and with the ability to display the heterogeneity in skin perfusion, the noise-limited resolution of the LDI system as well as various sampling times were tested. The noise-limited resolution for medium and high light intensities were less than 0.5% (temporal) and 0.3% (spatial) of full scale. A sampling time of 1 sec was selected and image presentation was made by performing bilinear interpolation between perfusion values. The same area (10 x 10 mm) was mapped with LDI and topographic mapping at seven different sites. In addition, a larger area covering the surrounding skin was recorded with LDI. The small area recordings with LDI and topographic mapping could be identified in the larger LDI image. High-and low-perfusion spots coincided between the two systems. Temporal variations were studied by repeated LDI recordings of the same areas as above. Small spots were selected in the areas and plotted versus time. Without provocation, the total perfusion changes at each spot showed large variations, but the relative perfusion levels between neighboring spots persisted. Provocation with heat increased the perfusion in all spots.