Ang II-induced Ca2 Research Articles

PS-BPB01-6: PROTECTIVE NOX4 EFFECT IN ENDOTHELIAL CELLS INVOLVES ACTIVATION OF TRANSIENT RECEPTOR POTENTIAL MELASTATIN 2 (TRPM2) CATION CHANNEL

Objective: In endothelial cells, Nox4 is the most prevalent isoform and, in contrast to other Noxes, which generate superoxide O2, Nox4 produces mainly H2O2. Low H2O2 levels have been described to lower blood pressure, which suggests that a certain level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can have protective effects on the cardiovascular system. We demonstrated that TRPM2 is a target of H2O2 in vascular cells. TRPM2 is a redox-sensitive Ca2+ channel and once activated leads to Ca2 influx. Endothelial dysfunction involves a reduction in eNOS activation by Ca2+ and is potentiated in the absence of Nox4. As TRPM2 channel is a H2O2 sensor and regulates Ca2+ entry, we questioned whether protective Nox4 effect in endothelial cells involves the H2O2-TRPM2-Ca2+ axis, with consequent regulation of NO signalling. Design and Methods: WT and TTRhRen hypertensive mice were crossed with Nox4 KO mice. Vascular function was measured by wire myograph in resistance arteries. ROS and H2O2 generation were assessed by lucigenin and amplex red, and Ca2+ influx by fluorescence microscopy in rat aortic endothelial cells (RAEC). eNOS activation was assessed by immunoblotting. Results: Blood pressure was significantly increased in TTRhRen (130.3 ± 7.0 mmHg) and TTRhRen/Nox4 KO mice (141.3 ± 18 mmHg) versus control mice (98.1 ± 8.0 mmHg). TTRhRen mice had reduced endothelium-dependent relaxation (Emax: WT 83.5 ± 4.03 vs TTRhRen 59.1 ± 3.5); an effect worsened by Nox4 KO (37.9 ± 5.4), p < 0.05. The TRPM2 activator, ADPR, improved vascular relaxation in TTRhRen/Nox4 KO mice (75.9 ± 7.7); an effect recapitulated by H2O2 (74.2 ± 15.4), p < 0.05. Ang II-induced ROS and H2O2 generation in RAEC, effect reversed by Nox4 siRNA and followed by increased Ca2+ influx (AUC - Ca2+: 20440.3333 ± 1870.9), important in eNOS activation. Ang II-induced Ca2+ influx in endothelial cells was reduced by TRPM2 siRNA, TRPM2 inhibitors (AUC - Ca2+: 8-br-cADPR 15232.2 ± 1052.1; Olaparib 14952.6 ± 843.2 and 2-APB 13270.8333 ± 277.4, p < 0.05) and by Nox4 siRNA and Nox4 inhibitor GKT137831 (AUC - Ca2+: GKT 15067.5 ± 255.6). Ang II-induced eNOS activation (Ser1177) (%: 72.3 ± 24.7) and NO release were blocked by Nox4 and TRPM2 sirNA, GKT137831, PEG-catalase and the TRPM2 inhibitor 8-br-cADPR (p < 0.05). Conclusions: We defined a novel molecular pathway in endothelial cells, where Nox4-induced H2O2 production activates PARP/TRPM2 signalling followed by Ca2+ influx, eNOS activation and NO release. The absence of Nox4 impairs Ca2+ homeostasis leading to endothelial dysfunction, an effect exacerbated in hypertension. The protective role of Nox4 corroborates the idea that the use of antioxidants based on the sole evidence that decreased oxidative stress is cardioprotective, it is not effective.

Baicalin attenuates angiotensin II-induced blood pressure elevation and modulates MLCK/p-MLC signaling pathway

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi is an extensively used medicinal herb for the treatment of hypertension in traditional Chinese medicine. Baicalin, is an important flavonoid in Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi extracts, which exhibits therapeutic effects on anti-hypertension, but its underlying mechanisms remain to be further explored. Therefore, we investigated the effects and molecular mechanisms of Baicalin on anti-hypertension. In vivo studies revealed that Baicalin treatment significantly attenuated the elevation in blood pressure, the pulse propagation and thickening of the abdominal aortic wall in C57BL/6 mice infused with Angiotensin II (Ang II). Moreover, RNA-sequencing and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses identified 537 differentially expressed transcripts and multiple enriched signaling pathways (including vascular smooth muscle contraction and calcium signaling pathway). Consistently, we found that Baicalin pretreatment significantly alleviated the Ang II induced constriction of abdominal aortic ring, while promoted NE pre-contracted vasodilation of abdominal aortic ring at least partly dependent on L-type calcium channel. In addition, Ang II stimulation significantly increased cell viability and PCNA expression, while were attenuated after Baicalin treatment. Moreover, Baicalin pretreatment attenuated Ang II-induced intracellular Ca2+ release, Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) expression and activation of MLCK/p-MLC pathway in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The present work further addressed the pharmacological and mechanistic insights on anti-hypertension of Baicalin, which may help better understand the therapeutic effect of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi on anti-hypertension.

Gut microbiota dependent trimethylamine N-oxide aggravates angiotensin II–induced hypertension

Gut microbiota produce Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) by metabolizing dietary phosphatidylcholine, choline, l-carnitine and betaine. TMAO is implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, obesity and atherosclerosis. We test, whether TMAO augments angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced vasoconstriction and hence promotes Ang II-induced hypertension. Plasma TMAO levels were indeed elevated in hypertensive patients, thus the potential pathways by which TMAO mediates these effects were explored. Ang II (400 ng/kg−1min−1) was chronically infused for 14 days via osmotic minipumps in C57Bl/6 mice. TMAO (1%) or antibiotics were given via drinking water. Vasoconstriction of renal afferent arterioles and mesenteric arteries were assessed by microperfusion and wire myograph, respectively. In Ang II-induced hypertensive mice, TMAO elevated systolic blood pressure and caused vasoconstriction, which was alleviated by antibiotics. TMAO enhanced the Ang II-induced acute pressor responses (12.2 ± 1.9 versus 20.6 ± 1.4 mmHg; P < 0.05) and vasoconstriction (32.3 ± 2.6 versus 55.9 ± 7.0%, P < 0.001). Ang II-induced intracellular Ca2+ release in afferent arterioles (147 ± 7 versus 234 ± 26%; P < 0.001) and mouse vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC, 123 ± 3 versus 157 ± 9%; P < 0.001) increased by TMAO treatment. Preincubation of VSMC with TMAO activated the PERK/ROS/CaMKII/PLCβ3 pathway. Pharmacological inhibition of PERK, ROS, CaMKII and PLCβ3 impaired the effect of TMAO on Ca2+ release. Thus, TMAO facilitates Ang II-induced vasoconstriction, thereby promoting Ang II-induced hypertension, which involves the PERK/ROS/CaMKII/PLCβ3 axis.

NOX4 PROTECTIVE EFFECT IN ENDOTHELIAL FUNCTION INVOLVES ACTIVATION OF TRANSIENT RECEPTOR POTENTIAL MELASTATIN 2 (TRPM2) CATION CHANNEL

Objective: Nox4 regulates endothelium-dependent relaxation through production of H2O2, which in turn acts as an EDHF. We demonstrated that TRPM2 is also a target of H2O2 in vascular cells. TRPM2 is a redox-sensitive Ca2+ channel and once activated leads to Ca2 influx. Hypertension-associated endothelial dysfunction involves reduction in eNOS activation and is potentiated in the absence of NOX4. As TRPM2 channel is a H2O2 sensor and regulates Ca2+ entry, we questioned whether impaired vascular relaxation in hypertensive NOX4 KO mice involves the H2O2-TRPM2-Ca2+ axis in endothelial cells. Design and method: WT and TTRhRen hypertensive mice were crossed with Nox4 KO mice. Vascular function was measured by wire myograph in resistance arteries. Ca2+ influx was assessed by fluorescence microscopy in aortic endothelial cells. eNOS activation was assessed by immunoblotting. Results: Blood pressure was significantly increased in TTRhRen (130.3 ± 7.0 mmHg) and TTRhRen/NOX4 KO mice (141.3 ± 18 mmHg) versus control mice (98.1 ± 8.0 mmHg). TTRhRen mice had reduced endothelium-dependent relaxation (Emax: WT 83.5 ± 4.03 vs TTRhRen 59.1 ± 3.5); an effect worsened by NOX4 KO (37.9 ± 5.4), p&lt;0.05. The TRPM2 activator, ADPR, improved vascular relaxation in TTRhRen/NOX4 KO mice (75.9 ± 7.7); an effect recapitulated by H2O2 (74.2 ± 15.4), p &lt; 0.05. Ang II-induced Ca2+ influx in endothelial cells, important in eNOS activation, was reduced by TRPM2 inhibitors (AUC - Ca2+: 8-br-cADPR 76161 ± 1052.0; Olaparib 74763 ± 843.2 and 2-APB 79625 ± 277.4, p &lt; 0.05) and the NOX1/4 inhibitor GKT137831 (AUC - Ca2+: Ang II 107357 ± 1940.2 vs GKT 60270 ± 255.6, p &lt; 0.05). Ang II-induced activation of eNOS (Ser1177) (%: 72.3 ± 24.7) was blocked by GKT137831, PEG-catalase and the TRPM2 inhibitor 8-br-cADPR (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: Endothelial dysfunction in TTRhRen mice involves impaired TRPM2 activation. Inhibition/downregulation of Nox4 and reduced bioavailability of H2O2 exacerbates these processes. We identify a novel protective effect of NOX4 in endothelial cells involving H2O2-mediated activation of TRPM2-Ca2+-eNOS signalling.

Abstract P090: Nox5 Induces Vascular Damage Through C-src Activation In Human Hypertension

Nox5 is the major ROS-generating Nox isoform in human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). The role of Nox5 in oxidative stress and redox signaling underlying vascular dysfunction in hypertension is unclear. We examined molecular processes that regulate VSMC Nox5-induced ROS generation, focusing on c-Src. VSMC isolated from small arteries from normotensive (NT) and hypertensive (HT) subjects were studied. Nox5 expression and phosphorylation (immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation); ROS generation (chemiluminescence); activation of contractile signaling pathways (immunoblotting), Ca 2+ influx (Cal-520AM fluorescence), reversible protein oxidation (cysteine sulfenic acid probe BCN-E-BCN), actin polymerization (phalloidin staining) and migration (wound healing assay) were assessed in absence/presence of Nox5 (melittin) and Src (PP2) inhibitors. To study Nox5-specific effects, we used p22phox-silenced VSMCs (siRNA). Vascular function in VSMC-specific Nox5 transgenic mice was studied by wire myography. In HT, ROS levels (139±27%), Nox5 expression (103±23%) and phosphorylation were increased (77±17.93%) (p&lt;0.05, vs NT). Activation of c-Src (101±26%), PKC (96±33%), MLC 20 (416±71%) and Ang II-induced Ca 2+ influx (574±44 vs NT:451±26) were also increased in HT (p&lt;0.05, vs NT). Melittin reduced Ang II-induced ROS generation in both groups (p&lt;0.05 vs Ctl). In contrast, p22phox silencing increased ROS in both groups, an effect blocked by melittin (p&lt;0.05 vs Ctl). Nox5 inhibition reduced Ang II-induced c-Src phosphorylation and oxidation. In HT, p22phox silencing was associated with sustained Ang II-induced PKC (83±21% vs Ctl) and MLC 20 (89±22% vs Ctl) phosphorylation, effects blocked by melittin and PP2 (p&lt;0.05 vs Ctl). Nox5 and c-Src inhibition reduced Ca 2+ influx, actin polymerization and migration in HT. Hypercontractility observed in Nox5 mice was abolished by melittin and PP2. Our findings demonstrate that Nox5 is upregulated in human hypertension. This is associated with activation of c-Src, increased redox signaling and VSMC cytoskeletal reorganization, migration and vascular contraction. We define a novel Nox5-ROS-c-Src signaling pathway that may play a role in vascular remodeling/dysfunction in hypertension.

Angiotensin-II-Evoked Ca2+ Entry in Murine Cardiac Fibroblasts Does Not Depend on TRPC Channels.

TRPC proteins form cation conducting channels regulated by different stimuli and are regulators of the cellular calcium homeostasis. TRPC are expressed in cardiac cells including cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and have been implicated in the development of pathological cardiac remodeling including fibrosis. Using Ca2+ imaging and several compound TRPC knockout mouse lines we analyzed the involvement of TRPC proteins for the angiotensin II (AngII)-induced changes in Ca2+ homeostasis in CFs isolated from adult mice. Using qPCR we detected transcripts of all Trpc genes in CFs; Trpc1, Trpc3 and Trpc4 being the most abundant ones. We show that the AngII-induced Ca2+ entry but also Ca2+ release from intracellular stores are critically dependent on the density of CFs in culture and are inversely correlated with the expression of the myofibroblast marker α-smooth muscle actin. Our Ca2+ measurements depict that the AngII- and thrombin-induced Ca2+ transients, and the AngII-induced Ca2+ entry and Ca2+ release are not affected in CFs isolated from mice lacking all seven TRPC proteins (TRPC-hepta KO) compared to control cells. However, pre-incubation with GSK7975A (10 µM), which sufficiently inhibits CRAC channels in other cells, abolished AngII-induced Ca2+ entry. Consequently, we conclude the dispensability of the TRPC channels for the acute neurohumoral Ca2+ signaling evoked by AngII in isolated CFs and suggest the contribution of members of the Orai channel family as molecular constituents responsible for this pathophysiologically important Ca2+ entry pathway.

Upregulation of Transient Receptor Potential Canonical Type 3 Channel via AT1R/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 Induces Atrial Fibrosis in Aging and Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats.

Fibroblast proliferation and migration are central in atrial fibrillation (AF) promoting structure remodeling, which is strongly associated with aging and hypertension. Transient receptor potential canonical-3 channel (TRPC3) is a key mediator of cardiac fibrosis and the pathogenesis of AF. Here, we have observed the increased TRPC3 expression that induced atrial fibrosis which possibly is either mediated by the aging process or related to hypertensive progression. In this study, we measured the pathological structure remodeling by H&E staining, Masson staining, and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The protein expression levels of fibrotic biomarkers and TRPC3 were measured by Western blotting with atrial tissues from normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY 4m-o (4 months old)), old WKY (WKY 24m-o (24 months old)), spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR 4m-o (4 months old)), and old SHR (SHR 24m-o (24 months old)). To illuminate the molecular mechanism of TRPC3 in atrial fibrosis of aging rats and SHR, we detected the inhibited role of TRPC3 selective blocker ethyl-1-(4-(2,3,3-trichloroacrylamide) phenyl)-5-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate,pyrazole-3 (Pyr3) on angiotensin II (Ang II) induced fibrosis in neonatal rat atrial fibroblasts. The pathological examination showed that the extracellular matrix (ECM) and collagen fibrils were markedly increased in atrial tissues from aged and hypertensive rats. The protein expressions of fibrotic biomarkers (collagen I, collagen III, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)) were significantly upregulated in atrial tissues from the WKY 24m-o group, SHR 4m-o group, and SHR 24m-o group compared with the WKY 4m-o group. Meanwhile, the expression level of TRPC3 was significantly upregulated in WKY 24m-o and SHR 4m-o atrial tissues compared to WKY 4m-o rats. In isolated and cultured neonatal rat atrial fibroblasts, Ang II induced the atrial fibroblast migration and proliferation and upregulated the expression levels of TRPC3 and fibrotic biomarkers. TRPC3 selected blocker Pyr3 attenuated the migration and proliferation in neonatal rat atrial fibroblasts. Furthermore, Pyr3 significantly alleviated Ang II-induced upregulation of TRPC3, collagen I, collagen III, and TGF-β1 through the molecular mechanism of the TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway. Similarly, knocking down TRPC3 using short hairpin RNA (shTRPC3) also attenuated Ang II-induced upregulation of TGF-β1. Pyr3 preconditioning decreased Ang II-induced intracellular Ca2+ transient amplitude elevation. Furthermore, AT1 receptor was involved in Ang II-induced TRPC3 upregulation. Hence, upregulation of TRPC3 in aging and hypertension is involved in an atrial fibrosis process. Inhibition of TRPC3 contributes to reverse Ang II-induced fibrosis. TRPC3 may be a potential therapeutic target for preventing fibrosis in aging and hypertension.

Tumor necrosis factor-α potentiates the effects of angiotensin II on subfornical organ neurons.

Inflammation is thought to play a fundamental role in the pathophysiology of hypertension and heart failure, although the mechanisms for this remain unclear. Proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), influence the subfornical organ (SFO) to modulate sympathetic activity and blood pressure. The pressor effects of TNF-α in the SFO are partially mediated by angiotensin II (ANG II) receptor type 1 (AT1R), and TNF-α is known to potentiate ANG II-induced hypertension. However, the cellular mechanism of the interaction between TNF-α and ANG II/AT1R signaling remains unknown. In the present study, we performed Ca2+ imaging on dissociated SFO neurons in vitro from male Sprague-Dawley rats to determine whether TNF-α modulates ANG II-induced increases in intracellular Ca2+ in SFO neurons. We first established that a proportion of SFO neurons respond to ANG II, an effect that required AT1R signaling and extracellular Ca2+. We then tested the hypothesis that TNF-α may modulate the effects of ANG II on SFO neurons by examining the effects of TNF-α treatment on the ANG II-induced rise in intracellular Ca2+. We discovered that TNF-α potentiated the ANG II-induced rise in intracellular Ca2+, an effect that was dependent on the duration of TNF-α treatment. Finally, we determined that this potentiation of ANG II-induced Ca2+ activity relied on tetrodotoxin-sensitive voltage-gated Na+ (vgNa+) channels. These data suggest that the potentiation of ANG II/AT1R activity by TNF-α in SFO neurons results from the previously demonstrated ability of this cytokine to modulate the activation threshold of vgNa+ currents.

Loss of p21-activated kinase 1 (Pak1) promotes atrial arrhythmic activity

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is initiated through arrhythmic atrial excitation from outside the sinus node or remodeling of atrial tissue that allows reentry of excitation. Angiotensin II (AngII) has been implicated in the initiation and maintenance of AF through changes in Ca2+ handling and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We aimed to determine the role of p21-activated kinase 1 (Pak1), a downstream target in the AngII signaling cascade, in atrial electrophysiology and arrhythmia. Wild-type and Pak1-/- mice were used to determine atrial function invivo on the organ and cellular level by quantification of electrophysiological and Ca2+ handling properties. We demonstrate that reduced Pak1 activity increases the inducibility of atrial arrhythmia invivo and invitro. On the cellular level, Pak1-/- atrial myocytes (AMs) exhibit increased basal and AngII (1 μM)-induced ROS production, sensitivity to the NADPH oxidase-2 (NOX2) inhibitors gp91ds-tat and apocynin (1 μM), and enhanced membrane translocation of Ras-related C3 substrate 1 (Rac1) that is part of the multimolecular NOX2 complex. Upon stimulation with AngII, Pak1-/- AMs exhibit an exaggerated increase in the intracellular Calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) and arrhythmic events that were sensitive to sodium-calcium exchanger (NCX) inhibitors (KB-R7943 and SEA0400; 1 μM) and suppressed in AMs from NOX2-deficient (gp91phox-/-) mice. Pak1 stimulation (FTY720; 200 nM) in wild-type AMs and AMs from a canine model of ventricular tachypacing-induced AF prevented AngII-induced arrhythmic Ca2+ overload by attenuating NCX activity in a NOX2-dependent manner. The experimental results support that Pak1 stimulation can attenuate NCX-dependent Ca2+ overload and prevent triggered arrhythmic activity by suppressing NOX2-dependent ROS production.

Abstract P219: Vascular Cross-talk Between Redox and Calcium Signaling in Hypertension Involves Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 2 Channel Activation

The transient receptor potential melastatin 2 cation channel (TRPM2) is redox-sensitive and promotes Ca 2+ influx after H 2 O 2 activation through oxidative modification and PARP-ADPR-dependent mechanisms. TRPM2 also regulates Na + influx, and by increasing [Na + ]i interferes with the Na + -Ca 2+ exchanger (NCX) inducing reverse mode action, promoting Ca 2+ influx. These processes may be driven by Nox4-derived H 2 O 2. We tested the hypothesis that vascular dysfunction in hypertension involves oxidative stress-induced TRPM2 activation through H 2 O 2 production, which in turn promotes Ca 2+ influx. Mesenteric arteries isolated from wildtype (WT), LinA3 (mice expressing human renin with Ang II-dependent hypertension), Nox4 -/- and LinA3/Nox4 -/- mice and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from hypertensive and normotensive patients were used. Arteries from hypertensive LinA3 mice, exhibit increased U46619-induced vasoconstriction versus WT mice (Emax - LinA3 vs WT: 9.37 ± 0.51 vs 6.79 ± 0.29), an effect attenuated by olaparib (PARP-ADPR inhibitor) and 2-APB (TRPM2 blocker) and also increased mRNA expression (Fold change - related to control) of NOX4 (3.05 ± 0.30), TRPM2 (1.38 ± 0.24), NCX (1.973 ± 0.34) and salt inducible kinase 1 (1.833 ± 0.12) and sodium-potassium pump (1.43 ± 0.16), which are activated when intracellular levels of Na + rise beyond a critical point. These events seem to be regulated by NOX4, since they were not observed in mesenteric arteries from LinA3/Nox4 -/- mice. Ang II-induced Ca 2+ influx is potentiated in VSMCs from hypertensive patients (AUC-Ex490/Em535: normotensive: 15400±917.5 vs hypertensive - 22460±2388), a response followed by increased generation of O 2 - and H 2 O 2 in cells from hypertensive patients. These ROS effects were attenuated by catalase, and 2-APB, 8-br and olaparib (TRPM2 inhibitors) and benzamil, KB-R7943 and YM244769 (NCX inhibitors). Our data indicate that TRPM2 ion channel activation contributes to redox-sensitive vascular dysfunction in hypertension. These findings suggest that dysregulation of TRPM2-NOX4-derived ROS and NCX may contribute to redox- and Ca 2+ signalling important in vascular function in hypertension. TRPM2 may be a point of cross-talk between ROS and Ca 2+ signalling.

159 Trpm2 ion channel activation contributes to redox-sensitive vascular dysfunction in hypertension

The interplay between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca2?+ plays a major role in the regulation of vascular function. However, mechanisms underlying ROS-induced Ca2+-influx and signalling are not fully established....

DL0805-2, a novel indazole derivative, relaxes angiotensin II-induced contractions of rat aortic rings by inhibiting Rho kinase and calcium fluxes.

DL0805-2 [N-(1H-indazol-5-yl)-1-(4-methylbenzyl) pyrrolidine-3-carboxamide] is a DL0805 derivative with more potent vasorelaxant activity and lower toxicity. This study was conducted to investigate the vasorelaxant mechanisms of DL0805-2 on angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced contractions of rat thoracic aortic rings in vitro. Rat thoracic aortic rings and rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were pretreated with DL0805-2, and then stimulated with Ang II. The tension of the aortic rings was measured through an isometric force transducer. Ang II-induced protein phosphorylation, ROS production and F-actin formation were assessed with Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays. Intracellular free Ca(2+) concentrations were detected with Fluo-3 AM. Pretreatment with DL0805-2 (1-100 μmol/L) dose-dependently inhibited the constrictions of the aortic rings induced by a single dose of Ang II (10(-7) mol/L) or accumulative addition of Ang II (10(-10)-10(-7) mol/L). The vasodilatory effect of DL0805-2 was independent of endothelium. In the aortic rings, pretreatment with DL0805-2 (1, 3, and 10 μmol/L) suppressed Ang II-induced Ca(2+) influx and intracellular Ca(2+) mobilization, and Ang II-induced phosphorylation of two substrates of Rho kinase (MLC and MYPT1). In VSMCs, pretreatment with DL0805-2 (1, 3, and 10 μmol/L) also suppressed Ang II-induced Ca(2+) fluxes and phosphorylation of MLC and MYPT1. In addition, pretreatment with DL0805-2 attenuated ROS production and F-actin formation in the cells. DL0805-2 exerts a vasodilatory action in rat aortic rings through inhibiting the Rho/ROCK pathway and calcium fluxes.

NF-κB-Dependent Upregulation of NCX1 Induced by Angiotensin II Contributes to Calcium Influx in Rat Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells

BackgroundThe reverse mode of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) 1 can transport Ca2+ into cells and is involved in the contractile regulation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and the development of hypertension. We hypothesized that upregulation of NCX1 expression induced by angiotensin II (Ang II) could be dependent on activation of nuclear factor–kappa B (NF-κB) and contributes to Ca2+ influx in VSMCs. MethodsAn osmotic minipump was implanted for administration of Ang II in Sprague-Dawley rats, and blood pressure, as well as NCX1 expression, in the aorta was measured. VSMCs were cultured to verify that Ang II–upregulated NCX1 expression is dependent on activation of NF-κB and contributes to Ca2+ influx. ResultsAng II–upregulated NCX1 expression in rat aortas (2.1-fold at day 6) and VSMCs (1.7-fold at 24 hours) and NF-κB knockdown and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor resulted in 2.1- and 2.0-fold decreases in Ang II–upregulated NCX1 expression in VSMCs. KB-R7943 (an inhibitor of NCX1 reversal) and NCX1 knockdown decreased Ang II–induced Ca2+ influx 1.4- and 1.3- fold, respectively. KB-R7943 and removal of extracellular Na+ decreased Ang II–initiated store depletion–mediated Ca2+ entry by 1.5- and 1.3-fold, respectively. Moreover, NF-κB knockdown and use of a p38 MAPK inhibitor resulted in about 1.3-fold decreases in Ang II–induced Ca2+ influx through activation of reverse-mode NCX1. ConclusionsAng II upregulates NCX1 expression through p38 MAPK and NF-κB pathways, and reverse-mode NCX1 plays an important part in Ang II-induced Ca2+ influx in VSMCs, which may be associated with Ang II–initiated store-operated channel entry.

Direct evidence of intracrine angiotensin II signaling in neurons

The existence of a local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in neurons was first postulated 40 years ago. Further studies indicated intraneuronal generation of ANG II. However, the function and signaling mechanisms of intraneuronal ANG II remained elusive. Since ANG II type 1 receptor (AT1R) is the major type of receptor mediating the effects of ANG II, we used intracellular microinjection and concurrent Ca(2+) and voltage imaging to examine the functionality of intracellular AT1R in neurons. We show that intracellular administration of ANG II produces a dose-dependent elevation of cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) in hypothalamic neurons that is sensitive to AT1R antagonism. Endolysosomal, but not Golgi apparatus, disruption prevents the effect of microinjected ANG II on [Ca(2+)]i. Additionally, the ANG II-induced Ca(2+) response is dependent on microautophagy and sensitive to inhibition of PLC or antagonism of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors. Furthermore, intracellular application of ANG II produces AT1R-mediated depolarization of hypothalamic neurons, which is dependent on [Ca(2+)]i increase and on cation influx via transient receptor potential canonical channels. In summary, we provide evidence that intracellular ANG II activates endolysosomal AT1Rs in hypothalamic neurons. Our results point to the functionality of a novel intraneuronal angiotensinergic pathway, extending the current understanding of intracrine ANG II signaling.

Pathways of [Ca2+]i rise evoked by angiotensin II in MDCK renal tubular cells

The effect of angiotensin II (Ang II) on cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) in MDCK renal tubular cells was explored. The Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent dye fura-2 was applied to measure [Ca2+]i. Ang II at concentrations of 5–40 µM induced a [Ca2+]i rise in a concentration-dependent manner. The response was reduced partly by removing Ca2+. Ang II evoked store-operated Ca2+ entry that was inhibited by La3+ and Gd3+. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, incubation with the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone (BHQ) or thapsigargin abolished Ang II-induced Ca2+ release. Inhibition of phospholipase C with U73122 abolished Ang II-induced [Ca2+]i rise. Three Ang II analogues [(ASN1,VAL5)-Ang II acetate, (SAR1,THR8)-Ang II acetate, (VAL5)-Ang II acetate] failed to induce a [Ca2+]i rise. Together, in MDCK cells, Ang II induced a [Ca2+]i rise via Ca2+ entry through store-operated Ca2+ channels and phospholipase C-dependent Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum. Moreover, Ang II’s amino acid sequence is important in its stimulatory effect on [Ca2+]i.

Oxidative Stress and Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF), one of the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmias, afflicts >3 million people in the United States.1 Because the risk of developing AF increases with age, the prevalence of AF is projected to be 7.6 million in 2050,1 when 1 in 5 Americans will be over the age of 65.2 AF not only causes debilitating symptoms and functional impairments owing to worsened hemodynamics and embolic stroke, it also increases the risk of mortality up to 1.5- to 1.9-fold.3 Despite the significant morbidity and mortality burden incurred with AF, there are limited therapeutic options that may improve the outcomes of AF patients, and these options are associated with significant AF recurrence rates.4 Article see p 1748 One possible explanation for the limitations of current therapies is that they do not address effectively or completely the underlying causes of AF. Evidence has been mounting that AF is associated with systemic and cardiac oxidation.4,5 Risk factors for AF are similar to those of atherosclerosis, a disease known to be perpetuated by oxidative stress. These risk factors, such as hypertension, aging, diabetes mellitus, and coronary artery bypass surgery, have each been associated with increases in the systemic markers of oxidation.4 In addition, there is also evidence of increased cardiac oxidation of myofibrillar protein5 and membrane lipids6 with AF or with risk factors linked to AF. Although it is not clear whether cardiac oxidation leads to systemic markers of oxidation or whether systemic oxidation leads to cardiac oxidation, the association of oxidative stress and AF is robust and suggests that AF is possibly a manifestation of a systemic disease. Despite the link between oxidative stress and AF, systemic antioxidant therapy for arrhythmias has not met with much success in clinical trials.7, …

Roles of transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels and reverse-mode Na+/Ca2+ exchanger on cell proliferation in human cardiac fibroblasts: Effects of transforming growth factor β1

Expression of transient receptor potential canonical channels (TRPC) and the effects of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) on Ca2+ signals and fibroblast proliferation were investigated in human cardiac fibroblasts. The conventional and quantitative real-time RT-PCR, western blot, immunocytochemical analysis, and intracellular Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+]i measurement were applied. Cell proliferation and cell cycle progression were assessed using MTT assays and fluorescence activated cell sorting. Human cardiac fibroblasts have the expression of TRPC1,3,4,6 mRNA and proteins. 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG) and thapsigargin induced extracellular Ca2+-mediated [Ca2+]i rise. siRNA for knock down of TRPC6 reduced OAG-induced Ca2+ entry. Hyperforin as well as angiotensin II (Ang II) induced Ca2+ entry. KB-R7943, a reverse-mode Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) inhibitor, and/or replacement of Na+ with NMDG+ inhibited thapsigargin-, OAG- and Ang II-induced Ca2+ entry. Treatment with TGF-β1 increased thapsigargin-, OAG- and Ang II-induced Ca2+ entry with an enhancement of TRPC1,6 protein expression, suppressed by KB-R7943. TGF-β1 and AngII promoted cell cycle progression from G0/G1 to S/G2/M and cell proliferation. A decrease of the extracellular Ca2+ and KB-R7943 suppressed it. Human cardiac fibroblasts contain several TRPC-mediated Ca2+ influx pathways, which activate the reverse-mode NCX. TGF-β1 enhances the Ca2+ influx pathways requiring Ca2+ signals for its effect on fibroblast proliferation.

Pinocembrin inhibits angiotensin II-induced vasoconstriction via suppression of the increase of [Ca2+]i and ERK1/2 activation through blocking AT1R in the rat aorta

Pinocembrin (5,7-dihydroxyflavanone) is one of the primary flavonoids in propolis. Angiotensin II (AngII) is a biologically active peptide that induces vasoconstriction via the activation of the angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R). In the present study, we investigated the vasorelaxant effect of pinocembrin on AngII-induced vasoconstriction and the molecular mechanism of action. Pinocembrin was observed to inhibit AngII-induced vasoconstriction in rat aortic rings with either intact or denuded endothelium. In endothelium-denuded tissues, pinocembrin (pD́′2pD2′ 4.28±0.15) counteracted the contractions evoked by cumulative concentrations of AngII. In a docking model, pinocembrin showed effective binding at the active site of AT1R. Pinocembrin was shown to inhibit both AngII-induced Ca2+ release from internal stores and Ca2+ influx. Moreover, the increase in the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) and myosin light chain 2 (MLC2) induced by AngII was blocked by pinocembrin. These results demonstrate that pinocembrin inhibits AngII-induced rat aortic ring contraction, and these inhibitory effects may be related to the reduction of the AngII-induced increase in [Ca2+]i and ERK1/2 activation via blocking AT1R.

Peach (Prunus persica) extract inhibits angiotensin II-induced signal transduction in vascular smooth muscle cells

Angiotensin II (Ang II) is a vasoactive hormone that has been implicated in cardiovascular diseases. Here, the effect of peach, Prunus persica L. Batsch, pulp extract on Ang II-induced intracellular Ca2+ mobilization, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and signal transduction events in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) was investigated. Pretreatment of peach ethyl acetate extract inhibited Ang II-induced intracellular Ca2+ elevation in VSMCs. Furthermore, Ang II-induced ROS generation, essential for signal transduction events, was diminished by the peach ethyl acetate extract. The peach ethyl acetate extract also attenuated the Ang II-induced phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor and myosin phosphatase target subunit 1, both of which are associated with atherosclerosis and hypertension. These results suggest that peach ethyl acetate extract may have clinical potential for preventing cardiovascular diseases by interfering with Ang II-induced intracellular Ca2+ elevation, the generation of ROS, and then blocking signal transduction events.

948 VASORELAXANT DI-PEPTIDE, TRP-HIS, REGULATES CA2+-SIGNALING PATHWAY BY INHIBITING THE PHOSPHORYLATION OF VOLTAGE-DEPENDENT L-TYPE CA2+ CHANNEL IN VASCULAR SMOOTH MUSCLE CELLS

Objective: A series of our studies provided evidences that vasorelaxant di-peptide, Trp-His (WH), exhibits an anti-atherogenic effect and partly inhibited a Ca2+ influx like dihydropyridine type-voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ channel (VDCC) blocker. However, further inhibitory potential(s) in intracellular Ca2+-signaling pathways are still unclear. In this study, we attempted to elucidate alternative vasoprotective mechanism of WH in the intracellular Ca2+-signaling pathways. Methods: Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from 8-wk-old WKY rats were used to determine [Ca2+]i. Measurement of [Ca2+]i was performed using Fura-2, a Ca2+-specific probe, monitored at of dual-excited fluorescence at 340/380 nm (Emission: 500 nm). Activities of Protein Kinase C (PKC)s and calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMK II) were measured by ELISA and phosphorylation of VDCC was evaluated by Western blot. Results: WH (300 μM, not its corresponding amino acids) strongly suppressed the increase in [Ca2+]i in angiotensin II (Ang II)-stimulated VSMCs (Δ[Ca2+]i: Control; 620.0 nM, WH; 53.3 nM, P < 0.01). WH did not attenuate Ang II-induced Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum, while significantly inhibited phospholipase C (PLC)-activated [Ca2+]i elevation in m-3M3FBS (a PLC activator)-stimulated VSMCs (Δ[Ca2+]i: Control; 221.8 nM, WH; 63.2 nM, P < 0.01). In PLC-related signaling pathways, involving the facilitation of VDCC by Ca2+-related kinases such as CaMK II, WH inhibited CaMK II activity (P < 0.05). Furthermore, WH suppressed the phosphorylation of VDCC (P < 0.05). Conclusions: In AngII-induced vasoconstriction signaling pathway, we demonstrated for the first time that WH regulates [Ca2+]i in VSMCs through the suppression of PLC/CaMK II/VDCC phosphorylation pathway.