Upregulated Angiotensin Ia Receptors in the Hypothalamic Paraventricular Nucleus Sensitize Neuroendocrine Vasopressin Release and Blood Pressure in a Rodent Model of Polycystic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Introduction: Angiotensin (Ang) II signalling in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) via Ang type-1a receptors (AT1R) regulates vasopressin release and sympathetic nerve activity – two effectors of blood pressure regulation. We determined the cellular expression and function of AT1R in the PVN of a rodent model of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), the Lewis polycystic kidney (LPK) rat, to evaluate its contribution to blood pressure regulation and augmented vasopressin release in PKD. Methods: PVN AT1R gene expression was quantified with fluorescent in situ hybridization in LPK and control rats. PVN AT1R function was assessed with pharmacology under urethane anaesthesia in LPK and control rats instrumented to record arterial pressure and sympathetic nerve activity. Results: AT1R gene expression was upregulated in the PVN, particularly in corticotrophin-releasing hormone neurons, of LPK versus control rats. PVN microinjection of Ang II produced larger increases in systolic blood pressure in LPK versus control rats (36 ± 5 vs. 17 ± 2 mm Hg; p < 0.01). Unexpectedly, Ang II produced regionally heterogeneous sympathoinhibition (renal: −33%; splanchnic: −12%; lumbar: no change) in LPK and no change in controls. PVN pre-treatment with losartan, a competitive AT1R antagonist, blocked the Ang II-mediated renal sympathoinhibition and attenuated the pressor response observed in LPK rats. The Ang II pressor effect was also blocked by systemic OPC-21268, a competitive V_1A receptor antagonist, but unaffected by hexamethonium, a sympathetic ganglionic blocker. Discussion/Conclusion: Collectively, our data suggest that upregulated AT1R expression in PVN sensitizes neuroendocrine release of vasopressin in the LPK, identifying a central mechanism for the elevated vasopressin levels present in PKD.