Abstract
Cardiovascular system is exposed to pathogens and danger signals (endogenous ligands), resulting in activation of pattern‐recognition receptors including Toll like receptors (TLR). TLR4 have been shown in experimental models of atherosclerosis and heart failure, however it has not been described in hypertension. Our purpose was to investigate the gene expression of TLR4 in aorta, mesenteric arterioles, heart and kidney of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) in phases: pre‐hypertensive (5 weeks) and hypertensive (10 and 15 week) and in this last the effect of treatment with anti‐hypertensive. A gradual increase in TLR4 mRNA in mesenteric arterioles, heart and kidney was observed in SHR according to age. At the age of 15 weeks, the gene expression of TLR4 in aorta of SHR was reduced while in the kidney it was increased when compared with WT rats. The treatment for 15 days with losartan and amlodipine decreased BP and TLR4 expression in mesenteric arterioles, heart and kidney. On the other hand, both treatments increased the TLR4 expression in aorta. We suggest that TLR4 has a role in the chronic inflammatory process present in hypertension.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call