Retinoids inhibit bradykinin B 1 receptor-sensitized responses in human umbilical vein

Abstract

Bradykinin B 1 receptors are not expressed under physiological conditions but are induced under inflammatory conditions. In isolated human umbilical vein, a spontaneous bradykinin B 1 receptor sensitization process has been demonstrated. On the other hand, retinoids have been shown to exert anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory actions. We have now examined the effects of all- trans-retinoic acid and 9- cis-retinoic acid on the bradykinin B 1 receptor-sensitized responses in human umbilical vein. Both retinoids produced a concentration-dependent rightward shift of the concentration–response curves for the bradykinin B 1 receptor agonist, des-Arg 9-bradykinin. Retinoid treatment did not modify the responses to bradykinin B 1 receptor-unrelated agonists, bradykinin or serotonin. In conclusion, retinoids inhibit bradykinin B 1 receptor-sensitized responses and this action could participate in their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.