Removal of endothelium-dependent relaxation by antibody and complement in afferent arterioles

20-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid contributes to the inhibition of K+ channel activity and vasoconstrictor response to angiotensin II in rat renal microvessels

The present study examined whether 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (HETE) contributes to the vasoconstrictor effect of angiotensin II (ANG II) in renal microvessels by preventing activation of the large conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channel (K_Ca) in vascular smooth muscle (VSM) cells. ANG II increased the production of 20-HETE in rat renal microvessels. This response was attenuated by the 20-HETE synthesis inhibitors, 17-ODYA and HET0016, a phospholipase A₂ inhibitor AACOF₃, and the AT₁ receptor blocker, Losartan, but not by the AT₂ receptor blocker, PD123319. ANG II (10^-11 to 10^-6 M) dose-dependently decreased the diameter of renal microvessels by 41 ± 5%. This effect was blocked by 17-ODYA. ANG II (10^-7 M) did not alter K_Ca channel activity recorded from cell-attached patches on renal VSM cells under control conditions. However, it did reduce the NPo of the K_Ca channel by 93.4 ± 3.1% after the channels were activated by increasing intracellular calcium levels with ionomycin. The inhibitory effect of ANG II on K_Ca channel activity in the presence of ionomycin was attenuated by 17-ODYA, AACOF₃, and the phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor U-73122. ANG II induced a peak followed by a steady-state increase in intracellular calcium concentration in renal VSM cells. 17-ODYA (10^-5 M) had no effect on the peak response, but it blocked the steady-state increase. These results indicate that ANG II stimulates the formation of 20-HETE in rat renal microvessels via the AT₁ receptor activation and that 20-HETE contributes to the vasoconstrictor response to ANG II by blocking activation of K_Ca channel and facilitating calcium entry.

Rapid non-genomic vasoconstrictor actions of aldosterone in the renal microcirculation

There is increasing evidence for the pathophysiological importance of aldosterone in renal diseases. Studies have so far demonstrated that aldosterone exerts deleterious renal effects by inducing oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and fibrosis through a mineralocorticoid receptor (MR)-dependent genomic mechanisms. On the other hand, a number of recent studies provided evidence that aldosterone can act through a rapid non-genomic mechanism in cardiovascular tissues including the kidney, though the relative importance of such actions in renal diseases remains to be determined. We have recently found that physiological concentrations of aldosterone cause rapid vasoconstriction in the renal microcirculation. The vasoconstrictor actions were compatible with non-genomic; the major characteristics was its relatively early onset (apparent within 5min), which was not affected by either actinomycin D or cycloheximide (inhibitors of transcription or protein synthesis). Thus, in addition to genomic actions, such non-genomic vasoconstrictor actions in the renal microcirculation may contribute to the deleterious renal effects of aldosterone in renal diseases.

beta(1) Receptors protect the renal afferent arteriole of angiotensin-infused rabbits from norepinephrine-induced oxidative stress

Renal afferent arterioles (Aff) from angiotensin II (AngII)-infused rabbits have enhanced contractions to AngII that are normalized by tempol (superoxide dismutase mimetic), whereas contractions to norepinephrine (NE) are normal and unaffected by tempol. Tested was the hypothesis that beta-receptor stimulation with NE prevents enhanced reactivity and superoxide generation. Preconstricted Aff from AngII- or vehicle-infused rabbits were perfused at physiologic pressure. Aff from vehicle-infused rabbits had strong, endothelium-independent relaxations to dobutamine (beta(1)-receptor agonist; 78 +/- 6%; P < 0.0001; mean +/- SD) but only weak relaxations to salbutamol (beta(2)-receptor agonist; 13 +/- 3%; P < 0.05) or BRL-37,344 (beta(3)-receptor agonist; 14 +/- 3%; P < 0.05). Contractions to NE were similar in Aff from vehicle- and AngII-infused rabbits (-36 +/- 5 versus -34 +/- 3%; NS) and were unaffected by tempol (-32 +/- 4%; NS). In contrast, phenylephrine contractions (alpha(1) agonist) were enhanced in Aff from AngII-infused rabbits (-59 +/- 6 versus -46 +/- 4%; P < 0.05) and normalized by tempol. NE contractions in Aff from AngII-infused rabbits (-34 +/- 4%) were enhanced (P < 0.01) by propranolol (nonselective beta antagonist; -53 +/- 6%), CGP-20,712A (selective beta(1)-receptor antagonist; -61 +/- 9%), or Rp-cAMP (competitive inhibitor of cAMP; -56 +/- 4%); were normalized by tempol; but were unaffected by ICI-118,551 (selective beta(2)-receptor antagonist) or SR-59,230A (selective beta(3)-receptor antagonist). Superoxide generation in Aff from AngII-infused rabbits that were assessed from ethidium:dihydroethidium was enhanced by addition of CGP-20,712A to NE but was normalized by tempol. Aff have robust alpha(1)-receptor contraction and beta(1)-receptor dilation. NE elicits beta(1) signaling via cAMP that moderates oxidative stress and contractions in Aff from AngII-infused rabbits.

Regulation of thick ascending limb transport: role of nitric oxide

Nitric oxide (NO) plays a role in many physiological and pathophysiological processes. In the kidney, NO reduces renal vascular resistance, increases glomerular filtration rate, alters renin release, and inhibits transport along the nephron. The thick ascending limb is responsible for absorbing 20-30% of the filtered load of NaCl, much of the bicarbonate that escapes the proximal nephron, and a significant fraction of the divalent cations reclaimed from the forming urine. Additionally, this nephron segment plays a role in K+ homeostasis. This article will review recent advances in our understanding of the role NO plays in regulating the transport processes of the thick ascending limb. NO has been shown to inhibit NaCl absorption primarily by reducing Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransport activity. NO also inhibits bicarbonate absorption by reducing Na+/H+ exchange activity. It has also been reported to enhance luminal K+ channel activity and thus is likely to alter K+ secretion. The source of NO may be vascular structures such as the afferent arteriole or vasa recta, or the thick ascending limb itself. NO is produced by NO synthase 3 in this segment, and several factors that regulate its activity both acutely and chronically have recently been identified. Although the effects of NO on thick ascending limb transport have received a great deal of attention recently, its effects on divalent ion absorption and many other issues remain unexplored.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide activates different signaling pathways in mesenteric lymphatics of guinea pigs

The effects of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) on constriction frequency, smooth muscle membrane potential (V(m)), and endothelial V(m) of guinea pig mesenteric lymphatics were examined in vitro. CGRP (1-100 nM) caused an endothelium-dependent decrease in the constriction frequency of perfused lymphatic vessels. The endothelium-dependent CGRP response was abolished by the CGRP-1 receptor antagonist CGRP-(8-37) (1 microM) and pertussis toxin (100 ng/ml). This action of CGRP was also blocked by the nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor N(G)-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA; 10 microM), an action that was reversed by the addition of L-arginine (100 microM). cGMP, adenylate cyclase, cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), and ATP-sensitive K+ (K+(ATP)) channels were all implicated in the endothelium-dependent CGRP response because it was abolished by methylene blue (20 microM), 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (10 microM), dideoxyadenosine (10 microM), N-[2-(p-bromociannamylamino)-ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide-dichloride (H89; 1 microM) and glibenclamide (10 microM). CGRP (100 nM), unlike acetylcholine, did not alter endothelial intracellular Ca2+ concentration or V(m). CGRP (100 nM) hyperpolarized the smooth muscle V(m), an effect inhibited by L-NNA, H89, or glibenclamide. CGRP (500 nM) also caused a decrease in constriction frequency. However, this was no longer blocked by CGRP-(8-37). CGRP (500 nM) also caused smooth muscle hyperpolarization, an action that was now not blocked by L-NNA (100 microM). It was most likely mediated by the activation of the cAMP/PKA pathway and the opening of K+(ATP) channels because it was abolished by H89 or glibenclamide. We conclude that CGRP, at low to moderate concentrations (i.e., 1-100 nM), decreases lymphatic constriction frequency primarily by the stimulation of CGRP-1 receptors coupled to pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins and the release of NO from the endothelium or enhancement of the actions of endogenous NO. At high concentrations (i.e., 500 nM), CGRP also directly activates the smooth muscle independent of NO. Both mechanisms of activation ultimately cause the PKA-mediated opening of K+(ATP) channels and resultant hyperpolarization.

Superoxide enhances tubuloglomerular feedback by constricting the afferent arteriole

BACKGROUND

Superoxide (O(2) (-)) has been shown to augment tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) both in vivo and in vitro by scavenging nitric oxide (NO) in the macula densa (MD). We hypothesized that in addition to this mechanism O(2) (-) potentiates TGF by acting directly on the afferent arteriole (Af-Art).

METHODS

Microdissected Af-Arts and adherent tubular segments containing the MD were simultaneously microperfused in vitro, maintaining Af-Art pressure at 60 mm Hg. TGF response was determined by measuring changes in Af-Art diameter while increasing NaCl in the MD perfusate from 11/10 to 81/80 mmol/L Na/Cl.

RESULTS

To determine whether O(2) (-) acts at the MD in the absence of MD NO, we inhibited MD nNOS with 7-nitroindazole (7-NI) and added Tempol to the lumen. When 7-NI was added to the MD lumen, it increased TGF from 2.3 +/- 0.2 to 4.2 +/- 0.2 microm (P < 0.01). When Tempol was added to the MD lumen in the presence of 7-NI, it had no effect on TGF. To investigate whether O(2) (-) has any effect via the Af-Art in the absence of MD NO, we inhibited MD nNOS with 7-NI and added Tempol to the bath to scavenge O(2) (-) in the Af-Art. Adding Tempol to the bath with 7-NI in the MD lumen reduced TGF from 3.9 +/- 0.3 to 2.8 +/- 0.5 microm (P < 0.05 vs. 7-NI). To see if this effect was due to O(2) (-) scavenging NO production by the endothelium, we repeated the experiment in Af-Arts with damaged endothelium and found that adding Tempol to the bath lowered TGF from 3.4 +/- 0.9 to 1.2 +/- 0.6 microm (P < 0.01). When catalase was added to the bath together with Tempol, TGF response was not modified.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that it is O(2) (-) rather than H(2)O(2) that enhances TGF response, both directly by constricting the Af-Art and indirectly by scavenging NO in the MD.

Endothelium-Derived Nitric Oxide Modulates Vascular Action of Aldosterone in Renal Arteriole

We have recently demonstrated that aldosterone causes nongenomic vasoconstriction by activating phospholipase C (PLC) in the preglomerular afferent arteriole (Af-Art). In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that endothelium modulates this vasoconstrictor action by releasing nitric oxide (NO). In addition, to study the post-PLC mechanism, we examined possible contributions of phosphoinositol hydrolysis products. Rabbit Af-Arts were microperfused at 60 mm Hg in vitro, and increasing doses of aldosterone (10 −10 to 10 −8 mol/L) were added to the bath and lumen. Aldosterone caused dose-dependent vasoconstriction (within 10 minutes); significant ( P <0.01) constriction was observed from 5×10 −9 mol/L, and at 10 −8 mol/L, intraluminal diameter decreased by 29%±3% (n=9). Disrupting the endothelium augmented vasoconstriction; significant constriction was observed from 10 −10 mol/L, and at 10 −8 mol/L, the diameter decreased by 38%±2% (n=6). NO synthesis inhibition reproduced this augmentation (n=7). Pretreatment with chelerythrine (10 −6 mol/L), a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, slightly attenuated the constriction; aldosterone at 10 −8 mol/L now decreased the diameter by 18%±3% (n=7). However, in Af-Arts treated with thapsigargin (10 −6 mol/L) or dantrolene (3×10 −5 mol/L), which blocks inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP 3 )-induced intracellular calcium release, aldosterone at 10 −8 mol/L decreased the diameter by only 9%±1% (n=6) or 9%±2% (n=5), respectively. These results demonstrate that in the Af-Art endothelium-derived NO modulates vasoconstrictor actions of aldosterone that are mediated by the activation of both IP 3 and PKC pathways. Such vasoconstrictor actions of aldosterone may contribute to the development or aggravation of hypertension by elevating renal vascular resistance in cardiovascular diseases associated with endothelium dysfunction.

Contributions of nitric oxide, EDHF, and EETs to endothelium-dependent relaxation in renal afferent arterioles

BACKGROUND

Acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent relaxation in the renal afferent arteriole has been ascribed to nitric oxide, but the role of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factors (EDHFs) and 14,15-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (14,15-EET) are unclear.

METHODS

Single afferent arterioles were dissected from kidney of normal rabbits and microperfused in vitro at 60 mm Hg. Vessels were preconstricted submaximally with norepinephrine (10(-8) mol/L). Relaxation was assessed following cumulative addition of ACh (10(-9) to 10(-4) mol/L) alone, or in the presence of indomethacin (to inhibit cyclooxygenase), Nw-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA) (to inhibit nitric oxide synthase), methylene blue (to inhibit soluble guanylate cyclase), or a combination of L-NNA + methylene blue. To assess contributions by EDHF, studies were repeated with either apamin + charybdotoxin [to block Ca2+-activated K+ channels (KCa)] or with 40 mmol/L KCl. To asses the role of 14,15-EET, relaxations were evaluated in the presence of its competitive inhibitor 14,15-epoxyeicosa-5(Z)-enoic acid (14,15-EEZE).

RESULTS

Relaxation by acetylcholine was abolished following endothelial denudation. It was unaffected by indomethacin but was inhibited 54%+/- 5% (P < 0.001) by L-NNA, 57%+/- 5% by methylene blue, and 60%+/- 4% by the combination of L-NNA plus methylene blue. Relaxation was inhibited further by KCl (80%+/- 6%) or by apamin + charybdotoxin (96%+/- 2%). 14,15-EEZE, alone, inhibited acetylcholine-induced relaxation by 29%+/- 3%, and by 80%+/- 5% in the presence of L-NNA.

CONCLUSION

Acetylcholine-induced afferent arteriolar relaxation depends strongly on both nitric oxide, acting via soluble guanylate cyclase, and on an EDHF, likely 14,15-EET, acting via KCa.

Decrease in plasma NOx concentration by isosorbide dinitrate, an organic nitrate ester

It has been suggested that isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN)-induced venodilation could be ascribed to preferential accumulation of the agent in venous tissues, resulting in higher concentrations of nitric oxide (NO). Here, the authors investigated whether the venodilating effect of ISDN is associated with a preferential increase in plasma concentrations of NOx (NO2- and NO3-, stable end-products of NO) in venous blood than arterial blood. Plasma NOx was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography-Griess system with a sensitivity of 0.01 microM for NO2- and 0.1 microM for NO3-. Arterial and venous blood samples were obtained after coronary angiography from the aorta and right atrium of patients with or without ischemic heart disease. Nicardipine, a calcium channel blocker, was used as a non-NO-related arteriovasodilator. At 1 mg i.v., it did not cause any changes in NOx concentration in arterial and venous blood irrespective of hemodynamic changes. However, ISDN (3 mg i.v.) increased NO2- and decreased NO3- in both arterial and venous blood, with concomitant venodilation. Further analysis revealed that plasma NO increased in the pulmonary circulation and this increase was preserved after nicardipine and ISDN, and that ISDN, but not nicardipine, increased plasma NO3- in the pulmonary circulation. The authors did not detect higher concentrations of NOx in venous blood relative to their level in arterial blood. Further studies are necessary to clarify the kinetics of NO and NO-related compounds in the whole body.

Role of mesangial cells and gap junctions in tubuloglomerular feedback

BACKGROUND

Tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) is a process whereby the resistance of the afferent arterioles delivering blood to the glomeruli is regulated by the NaCl concentration of the forming urine in the lumen of the macula densa. Intraglomerular mesangial cells are located between capillaries within the glomerulus, while extraglomerular mesangial cells are located between the macula densa and the afferent arteriole. They are electrically and chemically coupled via gap junctions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of mesangial cells and gap junctions in TGF using the isolated, perfused juxtaglomerular apparatus.

METHOD

Juxtaglomerular apparatuses were dissected from male New Zealand white rabbits and perfused in vitro. The NaCl concentration at the macula densa was changed from 17/2 to 65/50 Na/Cl to initiate a TGF response. Afferent arterioles were perfused at 60 mm Hg throughout the experiment. Changes in luminal diameter caused by increasing the NaCl concentration at the macula densa were taken as the TGF response. TGF was measured before and after disrupting the gap junctions or damaging the mesangial cells in paired experiments.

RESULTS

During the control period, TGF decreased afferent arteriole diameter by 2.9 +/- 0.2 microm. After mesangial cells were damaged by perfusing Thy 1-1 antibody and complement into the afferent arteriole, the TGF response was completely eliminated. Separate experiments showed no statistically significant change in TGF response with time, or when antibody and complement were perfused into the macula densa lumen. The presence of Thy 1-1 antibody and complement in the afferent arteriole perfusate did not alter the ability of norepinephrine to constrict or acetylcholine to dilate the afferent arteriole. To investigate the role of gap junctions in TGF, we used heptanol to disrupt them. During the control period, TGF decreased afferent arteriole diameter by 2.9 +/- 0.4 microm. After perfusing heptanol into the lumen of the afferent arteriole, the TGF response was completely eliminated. When heptanol was added to the bath, it had no significant effect on TGF response.

DISCUSSION

The data show that after mesangial cells were selectively damaged, the constriction of the afferent arteriole induced by increasing the NaCl concentration at the macula densa was eliminated. However, such treatment had no effect when Thy 1-1 was perfused into the macula densa lumen, and did not alter the response of the afferent arteriole to norepinephrine or acetylcholine. Disruption of the gap junctions also eliminated the TGF response. These data indicate that the mesangial cells play a key role in mediating the TGF response, and that gap junctions among mesangial cells and between mesangial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells communicate the TGF signal to the afferent arteriole.

Mechanism of cGMP contribution to the vasodilator response to NO in rat middle cerebral arteries

This study examined the mechanism by which cGMP contributes to the vasodilator response to nitric oxide (NO) in rat middle cerebral arteries (MCA). Administration of a NO donor, diethylaminodiazen-1-ium-1,2-dioate (DEA-NONOate), or 8-bromo-cGMP (8-BrcGMP) increased the diameter of serotonin-preconstricted MCA by 79 +/- 3%. The response to DEA-NONOate, but not 8-BrcGMP, was attenuated by iberiotoxin (10(-7) M) or a 80 mM high-K(+) media, suggesting that activation of K(+) channels contributes to the vasodilator response to NO but not 8-BrcGMP. The effects of NO and cGMP on the vasoconstrictor response to Ca(2+) were also studied in MCA that were permeabilized with alpha-toxin and ionomycin. Elevations in bath Ca(2+) from 10(-8) to 10(-5) M decreased the diameter of permeabilized MCA by 76 +/- 5%. DEA-NONOate (10(-6) M) and 8-BrcGMP (10(-4) M) blunted this response by 60%. Inhibition of guanylyl cyclase with 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazole[4,3-a] quinoxalin-1-one (10(-5) M) blocked the inhibitory effect of the NO donor, but not 8-BrcGMP, on Ca(2+)-induced vasoconstriction. 8-BrcGMP (10(-4) M) had no effect on intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) in control, serotonin-stimulated, or alpha-toxin- and ionomycin-permeabilized vascular smooth muscle cells isolated from the MCA. These results indicate that the vasodilator response to NO in rat MCA is mediated by activation of Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels via a cGMP-independent pathway and that cGMP also contributes to the vasodilator response to NO by decreasing the contractile response to elevations in [Ca(2+)](i).

Biphasic vasodilator action of troglitazone on the renal microcirculation

Recent studies have demonstrated that thiazolidinediones, novel antidiabetic compounds that improve the insulin sensitivity, lower BP and decrease urinary protein excretion. However, neither the target vasculature nor the underlying mechanism for their actions is well understood. In this study, the action of troglitazone (Tro), a thiazolidinedione compound, on the glomerular afferent (Af-Arts) and efferent (Ef-Arts) arterioles, crucial vascular segments to the control of glomerular hemodynamics, were directly examined. Rabbit Af-Arts or Ef-Arts were microdissected from the superficial cortex and perfused at constant pressure. Increasing doses of Tro (10(-8) to 10(-5) M) were added to both the bath and lumen of preconstricted arterioles. In Af-Arts, Tro caused dose-dependent and biphasic dilation. Tro at 10(-5) M increased the diameter by 28 +/- 6% (n = 8, P < 0.01) until 20 min, with the diameter remaining at this level for 60 min, and then Tro began to dilate Af-Arts again. At 120 min, Tro at 10(-5) M further increased the diameter by 23 +/- 4% (n = 6). Disrupting the endothelium had no effect on either dilation (n = 7 or n = 5). Pretreatment with SKF 96365 (50 microM), which inhibits both voltage- and receptor-operated calcium channels, abolished the early-phase dilation without affecting the late-phase dilation; 20 or 120 min after adding Tro at 10(-5) M, the diameter increased by 4 +/- 2% (n = 7) or 28 +/- 3% (n = 6), respectively. In contrast to Af-Arts, Tro caused monophasic dilation in Ef-Arts; Tro at 10(-5) M did not cause significant dilation until 80 min, and at 120 min the diameter increased by 37 +/- 4% (n = 5). These results suggest that in the Af-Art Tro has biphasic endothelium-independent vasodilator action, which is partly mediated by an inhibition of calcium influx. This vasodilator action may play a role in the BP-lowering effect of Tro. In addition, by dilating the postglomerular Ef-Art, Tro may decrease the glomerular capillary pressure and hence the excretion of urinary protein.

K+ currents underlying the action of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor in guinea-pig, rat and human blood vessels

Membrane currents attributed to endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) were recorded in short segments of submucosal arterioles of guinea-pigs using single microelectrode voltage clamp. The functional responses of arterioles and human subcutaneous, rat hepatic and guinea-pig coronary arteries were also assessed as changes in membrane potential recorded simultaneously with contractile activity. The current-voltage (I-V) relationship for the conductance due to EDHF displayed outward rectification with little voltage dependence. Components of the current were blocked by charybdotoxin (30-60 nM) and apamin (0.25-0.50 microM), which also blocked hyperpolarization and prevented EDHF-induced relaxation. The EDHF-induced current was insensitive to Ba2+ (20-100 microM) and/or ouabain (1 microM to 1 mM). In human subcutaneous arteries and guinea-pig coronary arteries and submucosal arterioles, the EDHF-induced responses were insensitive to Ba2+ and/or ouabain. Increasing [K+]o to 11-21 mM evoked depolarization under conditions in which EDHF evoked hyperpolarization. Responses to ACh, sympathetic nerve stimulation and action potentials were indistinguishable between dye-labelled smooth muscle and endothelial cells in arterioles. Action potentials in identified endothelial cells were always associated with constriction of the arterioles. 18beta-Glycyrrhetinic acid (30 microM) and carbenoxolone (100 microM) depolarized endothelial cells by 31 +/- 6 mV (n = 7 animals) and 33 +/- 4 mV (n = 5), respectively, inhibited action potentials in smooth muscle and endothelial cells and reduced the ACh-induced hyperpolarization of endothelial cells by 56 and 58 %, respectively. Thus, activation of outwardly rectifying K+ channels underlies the hyperpolarization and relaxation due to EDHF. These channels have properties similar to those of intermediate conductance (IKCa) and small conductance (SKCa) Ca2+-activated K+ channels. Strong electrical coupling between endothelial and smooth muscle cells implies that these two layers function as a single electrical syncytium. The non-specific effects of glycyrrhetinic acid precludes its use as an indicator of the involvement of gap junctions in EDHF-attributed responses. These conclusions are likely to apply to a variety of blood vessels including those of humans.

Endothelin and nitric oxide mediate reduced myogenic reactivity of small renal arteries from pregnant rats

We tested the hypothesis that endothelin acting through the endothelial ET(B) receptor subtype and the nitric oxide (NO) pathway accounts for reduced myogenic reactivity of the renal resistance vasculature during pregnancy. Small renal arteries (100-200 microm) were isolated from virgin and midterm pregnant rats when gestational renal hyperfiltration and vasodilation are maximal in this species. Myogenic reactivity (the adjustment of arterial diameter in response to a change in transmural pressure) was assessed with a pressurized myograph system. A rapid increase in transmural pressure from 60 to 80 mmHg resulted in a 2.4% diameter increase in vessels from virgin compared with an 8.1% increase in arteries from midgestation rats (n = 8 each, P < 0.05). Thus myogenic reactivity is markedly reduced during pregnancy. Incubation with the NO synthase inhibitors, an ET(B) receptor subtype antagonist (RES-701-1), the nonselective ET(A/B) receptor blocker (SB-209670), or endothelial removal abrogated the reduced myogenic reactivity of vessels from gravid rats without affecting myogenic reactivity in arteries from virgin animals. Thus the endothelium mediates the reduced myogenic reactivity of small renal arteries of midgestation rats most likely through the ET(B) receptor subtype and NO pathway.

Role of cGMP versus 20-HETE in the vasodilator response to nitric oxide in rat cerebral arteries

This study examined the response to nitric oxide (NO) in rat middle cerebral arteries (MCA). NO donors increased the activity of a 205-pS K(+) channel recorded from vascular smooth muscle (VSM) cells isolated from MCA 10-fold. Blockade of guanylyl cyclase activity with 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazole[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ, 10(-5) M) did not alter the effect of NO on this channel. In contrast, adding 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) to the bath (10(-7) M) abolished the response to NO. NO donors also increased the diameter of serotonin-preconstricted MCA to 85% of control. Blockade of K(+) channels with iberiotoxin or a high-K(+) medium reduced this response by 50%. ODQ (10(-5) M) reduced this response by 47 +/- 3%, whereas preventing the fall of 20-HETE levels reduced the response by 59 +/- 2% (n = 5). Blockade of both pathways eliminated the response to NO donors. These results indicate that activation of K(+) channels contributes 50% to vasodilator response to NO in rat MCA. This is mediated by a fall in 20-HETE levels rather than a rise in cGMP levels or a direct effect of NO.

Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids constrict isolated pressurized rabbit pulmonary arteries

Little information is available regarding the vasoactive effects of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) in the lung. We demonstrate that 5, 6-, 8,9-, 11,12-, and 14,15-EETs contract pressurized rabbit pulmonary arteries in a concentration-dependent manner. Constriction to 5,6-EET methyl ester or 14,15-EET is blocked by indomethacin or ibuprofen (10(-5) M), SQ-29548, endothelial denuding, or submaximal preconstriction with the thromboxane mimetic U-46619. Constriction of pulmonary artery rings to phenylephrine is blunted by treatment with the epoxygenase inhibitor N-methylsulfonyl-6-(2-propargyloxyphenyl)hexanamide. Pulmonary arteries and peripheral lung microsomes metabolize arachidonate to products that comigrate on reverse-phrase HPLC with authentic regioisomers of 5,6-, 8,9-, 11,12-, and 14,15-EETs, but no cyclooxygenase products of EETs could be demonstrated. Proteins of the CYP2B, CYP2E, CYP2J, CYP1A, and CYP2C subfamilies are present in pulmonary artery and peripheral lung microsomes. Constriction of isolated rabbit pulmonary arteries to EETs is nonregioselective and depends on intact endothelium and cyclooxygenase, consistent with the formation of a pressor prostanoid compound. These data raise the possibility that EETs may contribute to regulation of pulmonary vascular tone.

Impaired flow-dependent dilatation in distal mesenteric arteries from the spontaneously hypertensive rat

1. The aim of the study was to examine the hypothesis that flow-dependent dilatation is impaired in distal mesenteric arteries from adult spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) compared with normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rat (WKY) controls and to assess the role of nitric oxide (NO). 2. Arterial segments were cannulated, pressurized to 80 mmHg and allowed to develop spontaneous myogenic tone. Flow was increased incrementally in vessels from both strains and responses were also assessed before and after incubation with the NO synthase inhibitor Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). Responses to flow in control vessels were also assessed before and after intraluminal perfusion with antibody-complement to disrupt the endothelium. 3. At a flow rate of 5 microliter min-1, arteries from the WKY dilated significantly (22 +/- 5%, P < 0.01, n = 29) compared with the diameter at zero flow, whereas arteries from the SHR did not (4 +/- 4%, n.s., n = 16). Incubation with L-NAME had no inhibitory effect on the responses to flow in either rat strain. In control arteries, antibody-complement treatment abolished the dilatation in response to both flow and acetylcholine (ACh, 1 microM). 4. We conclude that flow-dependent dilatation is impaired in distal mesenteric arteries from adult SHR compared with WKY controls. Furthermore, flow-dependent dilatation is endothelium dependent, but L-NAME insensitive, thus excluding the NO pathway in this abnormality. Impaired flow-dependent dilatation may contribute to the increased peripheral resistance in hypertension.

AT2 antagonist-sensitive potentiation of angiotensin II-induced constriction by NO blockade and its dependence on endothelium and P450 eicosanoids in rat renal vasculature

1. We showed earlier that NO inhibition caused a left-shift and augmented Emax of the concentration-response curve of AT1-mediated (angiotensin II)-induced vasoconstrictions (AII-VC) in the rat kidney. The 0.01-0.1 nM AII-VC unmasked by the potentiating effect of NO inhibition, were sensitive not only to AT1 (L158809), but also to AT2 receptor (PD123319) antagonists. We now demonstrate the role of endothelium and eicosanoids in the NO-masked AT1/AT2-mediated component of the AII-VC in isolated indomethacin-perfused kidneys of the rat. 2. L-NAME increased 0.1 nM AII-VC 7.2 fold. Pretreatment of the kidneys with factor VIII antibody/complement or with the detergent CHAPS to damage endothelium, decreased carbachol-induced vasodilatation and blunted by 60 and 30% respectively, the enhancement of AII-VC during NO inhibition. 3. L-NAME also increased 3 microM noradrenaline (NA)-induced vasoconstriction (NA-VC) 8.1 fold. In contrast to AII-VC, endothelium damage was without effect on the enhancement of NA-VC by L-NAME, suggesting a dominant role of endothelium-derived NO in the enhancement of NA-VC. 4. During NO inhibition, ETYA (2 microM; an inhibitor of all arachidonic acid derived pathways) and alpha-naphtoflavone (10 microM; an inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 isozymes), decreased by 85% the 0.1 nM AII-VC. 5. In conclusion, during NO inhibition, the AT1-mediated constriction to low concentrations of AII, which is sensitive to AT2 antagonists, depends on intact endothelium, and can be blocked by inhibition of eicosanoid synthesis. The results suggest that the AII-mediated vasoconstriction through AT1 receptors is potentiated in the absence of NO, by the release of eicosanoids from the endothelium through AT2 receptors.

Evidence that the substance P-induced enhancement of pacemaking in lymphatics of the guinea-pig mesentery occurs through endothelial release of thromboxane A2

1. In vitro studies were performed to examine the mechanisms underlying substance P-induced enhancement of constriction rate in guinea-pig mesenteric lymphatic vessels. 2. Substance P caused an endothelium-dependent increase in lymphatic constriction frequency which was first significant at a concentration of 1 nM (115 +/- 3% of control, n = 11) with 1 microM, the highest concentration tested, increasing the rate to 153 +/- 4% of control (n = 9). 3. Repetitive 5 min applications of substance P (1 microM) caused tachyphylaxis with tissue responsiveness tending to decrease (by an average of 23%) and significantly decreasing (by 72%) for application at intervals of 30 and 10 min, respectively. 4. The competitive antagonist of tachykinin receptors, spantide (5 microM) and the specific NK1 receptor antagonist, WIN51708 (10 microM) both prevented the enhancement of constriction rate induced by 1 microM substance P. 5. Endothelial cells loaded with the Ca2+ sensing fluophore, fluo 3/AM did not display a detectable change in [Ca2+]i upon application of 1 microM substance P. 6. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase by NG nitro-L-arginine (L-NOARG; 100 microM) had no significant effect on the response induced by 1 microM substance P. 7. The enhancement of constriction rate induced by 1 microM substance P was prevented by the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin (3 microM), the thromboxane A2 synthase inhibitor, imidazole (50 microM), and the thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist, SQ29548 (0.3 microM). 8. The stable analogue of thromboxane A2, U46619 (0.1 microM) significantly increased the constriction rate of lymphangions with or without endothelium, an effect which was prevented by SQ29548 (0.3 microM). 9. Treatment with pertussis toxin (PTx; 100 ng ml-1) completely abolished the response to 1 microM substance P without inhibiting either the perfusion-induced constriction or the U46619-induced enhancement of constriction rate. 10. Application of the phospholipase A2 inhibitor, antiflammin-1 (1 nM) prevented the enhancement of lymphatic pumping induced by substance P (1 microM), without inhibiting the response to either U46619 (0.1 microM) or acetylcholine (10 microM). 11. The data support the hypothesis that the substance P-induced increase in pumping rate is mediated via the endothelium through NK1 receptors coupled by a PTx sensitive G-protein to phospholipase A2 and resulting in generation of the arachidonic acid metabolite, thromboxane A2 this serving as the diffusible activator.

Parathyroid hormone-related protein detection and interaction with NO and cyclic AMP in the renovascular system

The presence of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) in human kidney vasculature and the signal transduction pathways stimulated during PTHrP-induced vasodilation of the rabbit kidney were investigated. Immunostaining of human kidney revealed the abundant presence of PTHrP in media and intima of all microvessels as well as in macula densa. In isolated perfused rabbit kidney preconstricted with noradrenaline, 10(-5) M Rp-cAMPS, a direct inhibitor of protein kinase A, produced comparable inhibition of 2.5 x 10(-7) M forskolin- and 10(-7) M PTHrP-induced vasorelaxations. Renal vasorelaxation and renal microvessel adenylyl cyclase stimulation underwent comparable desensitization following exposure to PTHrP. Nitric oxide (NO)-synthase inhibition by L-NAME (10(-4) M), NO scavenging by an imidazolineoxyl N-oxide (10(-4) M) and guanylyl cyclase inhibition by methylene blue (10(-4) M) decreased PTHrP-induced vasorelaxation by 27 to 53%, abolished bradykinin-induced vasorelaxation and did not affect forskolin-induced vasorelaxation. The effects of Rp-cAMPS and L-NAME were not additive on PTHrP-induced vasorelaxation. Damaging endothelium by treating the kidney with either anti-factor VIII-related antibody and complement, gossypol or detergent, did not affect PTHrP- or forskolin-induced vasorelaxations but reduced bradykinin-induced vasorelaxation by 53 to 92%. Conversely, endothelial damage did not alter the inhibitory action of L-NAME on PTHrP-induced vasorelaxation. In conclusion, PTHrP is present throughout the human renovascular tree and juxtaglomerular apparatus. Activation of both adenylyl cyclase/protein kinase A and NO-synthase/guanylyl cyclase pathways are directly linked to the renodilatory action of PTHrP in a way that does not require an intact endothelium in the isolated rabbit kidney.

20-HETE requires increased vascular tone to constrict rabbit afferent arterioles

Renal production of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE), a cytochrome P-450-dependent arachidonate metabolite, increases during development of hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats, and inhibition of its production prevents hypertension. Since 20-HETE is a potent vasoconstrictor, these findings suggest that 20-HETE may contribute to the development of hypertension by elevating renal vascular resistance. In this study we examined the direct action of 20-HETE on the afferent arteriole, a vascular segment crucial to the control of renal vascular resistance. Rabbit afferent arterioles were microperfused at 60 mm Hg in vitro, and 20-HETE was added to the lumen. Although 20-HETE (10(-10) to 10(-6) mol/L) had no effect on the diameter of non-treated afferent arterioles (n=6), it caused dose-dependent constriction when vascular tone was increased with norepinephrine (0.3 micromol/L); 20-HETE at 10(-6) mol/L decreased diameter by 43 +/- 4% (n=6, P < .001). This constriction was abolished by disrupting the endothelium (n=5). Moreover, pretreatment with the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (50 micromol/L) or the thromboxane/endoperoxide receptor antagonist SQ29548 (1 micromol/L) significantly (P < .03) attenuated 20-HETE-induced constriction: 20-HETE at 10(-6) mol/L constricted norepinephrine-treated afferent arterioles by 28 +/- 3% (n=6) and 25 +/- 4% (n=5), respectively. These results demonstrate that an increase in afferent arteriolar tone is required for the vasoconstrictor action of 20-HETE, which is partly mediated by the endothelial cyclooxygenase pathway. THus, increased production of 20-HETE in the kidney and increase in afferent arteriolar tone, both of which often precede the development of hypertension, may synergistically contribute to the development of hypertension by elevating renal vascular resistance.

Angiotensin II action in isolated microperfused rabbit afferent arterioles is modulated by flow

We have recently presented evidence that endogenous nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins (PGs) modulate angiotensin II (Ang II) action in microperfused afferent arterioles (Af-Arts). Because flow may be a physiological stimulus of endothelial release of NO and PGs, we tested the hypothesis that flow through the lumen of the Af-Art stimulates the endothelium to produce NO and PGs, which in turn modulate the action of Ang II. We microdissected the terminal segment of an interlobular artery together with two Af-Arts, their glomeruli and efferent arterioles (Ef-Art). The two Af-Arts were perfused simultaneously from the interlobular artery, while one Ef-Art was occluded. Since the arteriolar perfusate contained 5% albumin, oncotic pressure built up in the glomerulus with the occluded Ef-Art and opposed the force of filtration, resulting in little or no flow through the corresponding Af-Art. Thus this preparation allowed us to observe Ang II action in free-flow and non-flow Af-Arts simultaneously. Ang II-induced constriction was weaker in free-flow than non-flow Af-Arts, with the luminal diameter decreasing by 8 +/- 2% and 23 +/- 3% at 10(-9) M, respectively (P < 0.013 free-flow vs. non-flow; N = 9). Disrupting the endothelium augmented Ang II action in free-flow (33 +/- 5.1%; P < 0.01 vs. intact endothelium) but not non-flow Af-Arts (31 +/- 5.3%), thus abolishing the differences between them (N = 8). Pretreatment with an inhibitor of either NO synthase (N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester) or cyclooxygenase (indomethacin) augmented Ang II action more in free-flow than non-flow Af-Arts, likewise abolishing the differences between them. These results suggest that intraluminal flow modulates the vasoconstrictor action of Ang II in Af-Arts via endothelium-derived NO and PGs. Thus flow may be important in the fine control of glomerular hemodynamics.