Porcine Coronary Endothelial Cells Research Articles

Prevention of Fine Dust-Induced Vascular Senescence by Humulus lupulus Extract and Its Major Bioactive Compounds.

Both short- and long-term exposure to fine dust (FD) from air pollution has been linked to various cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Endothelial cell (EC) senescence is an important risk factor for CVDs, and recent evidence suggests that FD-induced premature EC senescence increases oxidative stress levels. Hop plant (Humulus lupulus) is a very rich source of polyphenols known to have nutritional and therapeutic properties, including antioxidant behavior. The aims of this study were to evaluate whether Humulus lupulus extract prevents FD-induced vascular senescence and dysfunction and, if so, to characterize the underlying mechanisms and active components. Porcine coronary arteries and endothelial cells were treated with FD in the presence or absence of hop extract (HOP), and the senescence-associated-beta galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, cell-cycle progression, expression of senescence markers, oxidative stress level, and vascular function were evaluated. Results indicated that HOP inhibited FD-induced SA-β-gal activity, cell-cycle arrest, and oxidative stress, suggesting that HOP prevents premature induction of senescence by FD. HOP also ameliorated FD-induced vascular dysfunction. Additionally, xanthohumol (XN) and isoxanthohumol (IX) were found to produce the protective effects of HOP. Treatment with HOP and its primary active components XN and IX downregulated the expression of p22phox, p53, and angiotensin type 1 receptor, which all are known FD-induced redox-sensitive EC senescence inducers. Taken together, HOP and its active components protect against FD-induced endothelial senescence most likely via antioxidant activity and may be a potential therapeutic agent for preventing and/or treating air-pollution-associated CVDs.

Abstract 356: Rice Bran Extracts and Its Active Compound, γ-oryzanol, Prevent Particulate Matters-induced Endothelium Senescence

Particulate matters (PMs) derived from are known to be responsible for a wide range of diseases. Recent studies have indicated that long-term exposure PMs is associated with several cardiovascular diseases, at least in part, by increase of inflammation, oxidative stress and nitric oxide (NO) balance disturbance. The present study was to investigate the protective effect of rice bran and its active compound, γ-oryzanol (γ-Orz), on PMs-induced premature endothelial senescence, and if then, to explore the underlying mechanism. Premature senescence was induced in porcine coronary arterial endothelial cells (PCAECs) by incubating 30 μg/mL of PM10. Senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, oxidative stress, expression level of cell cycle regulatory proteins, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate(NADPH) oxidase, and local angiotensin system (LAS) component were evaluated. The result showed that senescence associated-β-gal activity in the PMs-treated PCAECs was attenuated by rice bran extracts (RBEs) and its major constituent, γ-Orz. Pretreatment with γ-Orz inhibited PMs-induced oxidative stress in PCAECs. Similarly, γ-Orz restored the cell proliferation of PCAECs by inhibiting PMs -induced cell cycle arrest. Western blot analyses revealed that cell cycle regulatory protein such as p53, p16, and p21 in senescent PCAECs treated with γ-Orz were reduced from PMs-exposed cells. In addition, γ- Orz prevented senescence associated NADPH oxidase, LAS activity of PM10-exposed cells. Pretreatment of γ-Orz restored PM10-induced endothelial dysfunction by upregulation of endothelial NO synthase expression. The present study demonstrated that γ-Orz protects against PMs induced PCAECs senescence, potentially through abrogating oxidative stress pathway. Taken together, this study can serve as a pharmacological use of rice bran extracts and γ-Orz for the prevention and/or treatment of air pollution-associated coronary artery diseases.

Significance of neutrophil microparticles in ischaemia-reperfusion: Pro-inflammatory effectors of endothelial senescence and vascular dysfunction.

Endothelial senescence is an emerging cause of vascular dysfunction. Because microparticles are effectors of endothelial inflammation and vascular injury after ischaemia‐reperfusion, we examined leucocyte‐derived microparticles of spleen origin as possible contributors. Microparticles were generated from primary rat splenocytes by either lipopolysaccharide or phorbol‐myristate‐acetate/calcium ionophore, under conditions mimicking innate and adaptive immune responses. Incubation of primary porcine coronary endothelial cells with either type of microparticles, but not with those from unstimulated splenocytes, leads to a similar threefold raise in senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase activity within 48 hours, indicating accelerated senescence, to endothelial oxidative stress, and a fivefold and threefold increase in p21 and p16 senescence markers after 24 hours. After 12‐hour incubation, the endothelial‐dependent relaxation of coronary artery rings was reduced by 50%, at distinct optimal microparticle concentration. In vitro, microparticles were pro‐thrombotic by up‐regulating the local angiotensin system, by prompting tissue factor activity and a secondary generation of pro‐coagulant endothelial microparticles. They initiated an early pro‐inflammatory response by inducing phosphorylation of NF‐κB, MAP kinases and Akt after 1 hour, and up‐regulated VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1 at 24 hours. Accordingly, VCAM‐1 and COX‐2 were also up‐regulated in the coronary artery endothelium and eNOS down‐regulated. Lipopolysaccharide specifically favoured the shedding of neutrophil‐ and monocyte‐derived microparticles. A 80% immuno‐depletion of neutrophil microparticles reduced endothelial senescence by 55%, indicating a key role. Altogether, data suggest that microparticles from activated splenocytes prompt early pro‐inflammatory, pro‐coagulant and pro‐senescent responses in endothelial cells through redox‐sensitive pathways. The control of neutrophil shedding could preserve the endothelium at site of ischaemia‐reperfusion–driven inflammation and delay its dysfunction.

Abstract 18708: Vascular Dysfunction in Hyperhomocysteinemia: In vitro Evidence for Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-mediated Calcium-activated Potassium Channel Dysfunction

Objectives: KCa channels play an important role in the control of vascular tone. Opening of IKCa and SKCa in endothelial cells underlies the classic EDHF pathway and promotes NO production. Smooth muscle BKCa provides a negative feedback mechanism opposing vasoconstriction and is an effector of NO and EDHF. Previous studies demonstrated homocysteine (Hcy), a risk factor for atherosclerosis, compromises NO and EDHF function, however, whether KCa is involved is poorly studied and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. We studied the effect of Hcy on vascular KCa with the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress explored. Methods: In vitro studies were performed in porcine coronary arteries and primary cultured porcine coronary endothelial (PCECs) and smooth muscle cells (PCSMCs). IKCa and SKCa-, and BKCa-mediated relaxations were studied in endothelium-intact and -denuded arteries in a myograph. IKCa and SKCa currents in PCECs and BKCa current in PCSMCs were analyzed by whole-cell patch clamp and channel expressions were examined by western blot. Results: Hcy impairs the role of IKCa and SKCa, and BKCa in vasorelaxation. Relaxant responses to channel activators NS309 and NS1619 were attenuated and EDHF-type response was inhibited. Hcy suppressed IKCa and SKCa currents in PCECs and BKCa currents in PCSMCs. Inhibition of ER stress enhanced KCa currents and improved EDHF-type and channel activators-induced responses. Whole-cell protein levels of IKCa and SKCa remained unchanged in Hcy-exposed PCECs whereas IKCa and SKCa at cell surface were significantly decreased. Hcy lowered protein of β1 but not α subunit of BKCa in PCSMCs. The decrease in cell surface IKCa and SKCa and reduction of BKCa β1 were restored by ER stress inhibition. Further, inhibition of PERK increased BKCa β1 protein and enhanced BKCa current. Conclusion: ER stress mediates Hcy-induced vascular dysfunction through inhibition of KCa. Suppression of cell surface expression underlies ER stress-mediated IKCa and SKCa inhibition. Downregulation of BKCa β1 by PERK-ER stress pathway plays a key role in the loss of BKCa function. This study provides new mechanistic insights into the role of ER stress in vascular dysfunction. Supported by RGC GRF CUHK4774/12M & CUHK14118414, and NSFC 81200123.

Inhibition of neointimal formation by targeted delivery of porcine coronary arterial endothelial cells overexpressing interleukin-8 (IL8) receptors in pig coronary arteries after stent implantation

Purpose of the study: We aimed to determine if there is any relationship between long term exposure to ambient air pollution and the blood pressure and inflammatory processes among young subjects. Methods: We recruited permanent residents of two Polish major cities, Krakow and Lublin, with very similar urban structure characteristics, which significantly differ in mean 10-year ambient air pollution levels: PM2.5 (22.4 vs. 41.7mg/m3) and PM10 (29.4 vs. 56.9 mg/m3) respectively. Data regarding BMI, lifestyle, ethnics and family history was collected. Measurements of blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were performed and blood tests, including inflammatory markers were studied. Results: 826 subjects (558 females, 268 males) aged 18.02 1.12 were randomly recruited, 382 in Lublin, 444 in Krakow. There were no differences between groups in BMI (median: 20,80 kg/m2), age, ethnic. We found no significant differences in BP parameters, pulse pressure (PP) between subjects differing in exposure to air pollution. Lublin vs. Krakow: DBP (70.3; IQR 10.5 vs. 69.7; IQR 9.3 mmHg), SBP (122.3; IQR 16.3 vs. 121.3; IQR 16.6 mmHg), PP (50.8; IQR 12.8 vs. 51.3; IQR 12.7 mmHg). Moreover we found lower PP (51.0; IQR 13.0 vs. 53.1; IQR 12.0 mmHg) in subjects drinking energy drinks more frequent than several times a week. We found significantly higher inflammatory parameters in inhabitants of highly polluted city. Lublin vs. Krakow: CRP (0.4; IQR 0.5 vs. 0.77; IQR 0.6 mg/ml, p<0.0001), hs-CRP (0.35; IQR 0.4 vs. 0.50; IQR 0.6 mg/ml, p<.0001), Hcy (9.03; IQR 4.6 vs. 10.3; IQR 4.4 mM, p<.0001) and fibrinogen (244; IQR 57.7 vs. 263; IQR 87.8 mg/dl, p<0.0001). Rhinitis was more frequent in subjects living in Cracow (16.12% vs. 10.36% p1⁄40.035). Highest CRP, fibrinogen, hs-CRP, Hcy levels were in overweight subjects living in Cracow. Conclusions: This study shows, that young adolescents living living in a city with high air pollution show increased levels of cardiovascular risk biomarkers including of inflammatory response.

0179: Polyphenol-rich blackcurrant juice induces NO-mediated relaxation in porcine coronary artery rings via a copper- and iron-dependent redox-sensitive activation of the Src/PI3-kinase/Akt/eNOS pathway

The beneficial cardiovascular effect of polyphenol-rich food and beverages has been attributed, at least in part, to the improvement of the vascular function through the induction of two major endothelial vasoprotective mechanisms. The aim of the present study is to determine whether a polyphenol-rich blackcurrant juice (PRBJ, 2.7 g/l), improves the vasoprotective endothelial function, and, if so, to characterize the underlying mechanism. The reactivity of porcine coronary artery rings was assessed in organ chambers, and the expression and phosphorylation levels of proteins in cultured porcine coronary endothelial cells by Western blot analysis. PRBJ caused potent endotheliumdependent relaxations that were significantly reduced by an eNOS inhibitor, not affected by inhibition of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization, and abolished by both treatments. PRBJ-induced NO-mediated relaxations were significantly reduced by chelators of either copper or iron, membrane permeant analogues of superoxide dismutase and catalase, inhibitors of either Src or PI3-kinase, and by calmidazolium, a calmodulin inhibitor. The NO-mediated relaxation was not affected by inhibitors of either PKC, EGFR, IGFR, or of several endogenous enzymes involved in the formation of ROS (NADPH oxidase, xanthine oxidase, mitochondrial respiration chain, cytochrome P450). In cultured endothelial cells, PRBJ increased the formation of NO as assessed by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. Moreover, PRBJ induced the phosphorylation of Akt and eNOS on activator sites, which were inhibited membrane permeant analogues of superoxide dismutase and catalase and inhibitors of either Src or PI3-kinase. PRBJ is a potent inducer of endothelium- dependent NO-mediated relaxations in porcine coronary artery rings. The NO-mediated relaxation involves an intracellular copper- and iron-dependent redox-sensitive activation the Src/PI3-kinase/Akt pathway leading to activation of eNOS and subsequent formation of NO.

Asenapine increases nitric oxide release and protects porcine coronary artery endothelial cells against peroxidation

Changes in endothelial function and peroxidation could play a significant role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease in psychiatric patients. In particular, endothelial nitric oxide (NO) could either exert a beneficial or detrimental effect depending on the involvement of NO synthase (NOS) subtype. Therefore, we planned to examine the effects of asenapine on NO release and protection against oxidative stress in porcine coronary endothelial cells (CEC). The Griess system and Western blot were used for NO detection and to examine changes in protein activation and expression. In addition, cell oxidative/antioxidant status and mitochondrial membrane potential were measured by specific fluorescent dyes. Asenapine caused a concentration-dependent increase of NO production (p<0.05) by the involvement of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA), phospholipase C (PLC), β2-adrenoceptor-related pathway, Akt, extracellular-signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK). Furthermore, asenapine protected CEC against oxidative stress by preventing reactive oxygen species production and glutathione reduction, mitochondrial membrane potential collapse and apoptosis, and by modulation of the inducible NOS (iNOS). In conclusion, in CEC asenapine induced eNOS-dependent NO production through an intracellular signaling leading to Akt, ERK1/2 and p38MAPK activation. Moreover, asenapine protected CEC against oxidative stress by modulation of antioxidant system, apoptosis, cell survival signaling and mitochondria functioning.

Activation of canonical transient receptor potential channels preserves Ca2+ entry and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor–mediated function in vitro in porcine coronary endothelial cells and coronary arteries under conditions of hyperkalemia

Although membrane depolarization by hyperkalemia is known to reduce Ca2+ influx in endothelial cells, the mechanism by which endothelial Ca2+ channel is affected by hyperkalemia remains poorly studied. We studied the effect of hyperkalemia on canonical transient receptor potential channels, in particular canonical transient receptor potential channel 3, in modulation of endothelial intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated function is Ca2+ dependent, and hyperkalemic cardioplegia/organ preservation solutions impair endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated function. We explored the role of canonical transient receptor potential channel 3 in endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated function and investigated whether modulation of these channels preserves endothelial Ca2+ influx and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated function under the condition of hyperkalemic/cardioplegic exposure. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured with fluorescent dye in primary cultured porcine coronary endothelial cells exposed to hyperkalemic/cardioplegic solutions containing mild to extreme high K+ concentration. Endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated relaxation under hyperkalemic/cardioplegic exposure was studied in small porcine coronary arteries in a myograph in the presence of cyclooxygenase and nitric oxide synthase inhibitors and nitric oxide scavenger. Canonical transient receptor potential channel 3 blocker inhibited bradykinin-induced Ca2+ influx and attenuated endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated response. Hyperkalemic exposure inhibited canonical transient receptor potential channel 3-mediated Ca2+ influx in a K+ concentration-dependent manner (120>20>10 mmol/L). Ca2+ influx decreased in porcine coronary endothelial cells exposed to histidine-tryptophan-ketoglutarate, St Thomas' Hospital, and University of Wisconsin solutions that contained mild (10 mmol/L), moderate (20 mmol/L), and extreme high (125 mmol/L) K+ concentration, respectively. Canonical transient receptor potential channel activator prevented the reduction of Ca2+ influx in porcine coronary endothelial cells exposed to solutions containing mild to moderate high [K+]o and restored endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated response that was impaired by hyperkalemic exposure. Canonical transient receptor potential channel 3 is involved in endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated function in coronary arteries. Hyperkalemia inhibited canonical transient receptor potential channel 3-mediated Ca2+ influx in endothelial cells. Canonical transient receptor potential channel activation restores Ca2+ influx suppressed by hyperkalemia and prevents dysfunction of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor.

EPA-0717 – Effects of asenapine on endothelial functions and cardiac cell survive

Bipolar patients have an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases for lifestyle habits and the use of antipsychotics that correlates with endothelial dysfunctions, in particular the decrease of eNOS activity and plasma NO levels. We aimed to examine the effects of the new atypical antipsychotic Asenapine on NO release and oxidative stress in porcine coronary endothelial cells (CEC). NO production was measured in CEC isolated from coronary arteries of pigs and plated in 0.1% gelatin-coated dishes with starvation medium overnight at 37 °C with 5% CO 2 . Cells were treated with asenapine 10 pM-100 μM and asenapine+inhibitors. Oxidative stress was generated with 200 μM hydrogen peroxide in the presence of asenapine for 15 min. The cells undergoing apoptosis were measured and proteins extracted from cell lysates were quantified and used for electrophoresis and immunoblotting studies. Asenapine increased NO release in CEC in a time-dependent way (p<0.05) by the phosphorylation of eNOS and plateau was reached at 120s stimulation; no effect was observed on iNOS activation. The association of asenapine and inhibitors suggested the involvement of cAMP/PKA, PLC, p38MAPK, PI3K and ERK1/2 in the intracellular signaling and the β 2 adrenergic receptors-related pathway. Data were confirmed by Western blot analysis. Pre-treatment of CEC with asenapine prevented cell death and mitochondrial membrane potential collapse caused by hydrogen peroxide (p<0.05) and counteracted the activation of apoptotic markers. Asenapine could play a protective role on endothelial function and cardiac cell survival, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease in maniac patients.

Calcium handling in porcine coronary endothelial cells by gastrin-17

In porcine coronary artery endothelial cells (PCAEC), gastrin-17 has recently been found to increase nitric oxide (NO) production by the endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) isoform through cholecystokinin 1/2 (CCK1/2) receptors and the involvement of protein kinase A (PKA), PKC and the β2-adrenoreceptor-related pathway. As eNOS is the Ca(2)(+)-dependent isoform of the enzyme, we aimed to examine the effects of gastrin-17 on Ca(2)(+) movements. Thus, experiments were performed in Fura-2-acetoxymethyl-ester-loaded PCAEC, where changes of cytosolic Ca(2)(+) ([Ca(2)(+)]c) caused by gastrin-17 were analysed and compared with those of CCK receptors and β2-adrenoreceptors agonists/antagonists. In addition, some experiments were performed by stimulating cells with gastrin-17 in the presence or absence of cAMP/PKA activator/inhibitor and of phospholipase C (PLC) and Ca(2)(+)-calmodulin dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) blockers. The results have shown that gastrin-17 can promote a transient increase in [Ca(2)(+)]c mainly originating from an intracellular pool sensitive to thapsigargin and from the extracellular space. In addition, the response of cells to gastrin-17 was increased by the adenylyl cyclase activator and the β2-adrenoreceptor agonists and affected mainly by the CCK2 receptor agonists/antagonists. Moreover, the effects of gastrin-17 were prevented by β2-adrenoreceptors and CaMKII blockers and the adenylyl cyclase/PKA and PLC inhibitors. Finally, in PCAEC cultured in Na(+)-free medium or loaded with the plasma membrane Ca(2)(+) pump inhibitor, the gastrin-17-evoked Ca(2)(+) transient was long lasting. In conclusion, this study shows that gastrin-17 affected intracellular Ca(2)(+) homeostasis in PCAEC by both promoting a discharge of an intracellular pool and by interfering with the operation of store-dependent channels through mainly CCK2 receptors and PKA/PLC- and CaMKII-related signalling downstream of β2-adrenoreceptor stimulation.

TRPC Channels In Ca2+ Regulation And Endothelial Function During Cardioplegic Exposure

Elevation of [Ca2+]i is essential to endothelial function and depolarization of endothelial membrane results in a reduction of Ca2+ influx. We studied whether canonical transient receptor potential channels (TRPC), i.e., TRPC3, is involved in [Ca2+]i dysregulation and endothelial dysfunction caused by depolarizing cardioplegia. [Ca2+]i was measured in porcine coronary endothelial cells (PCECs) and relaxation was studied in porcine small coronary arteries. Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ influx via TRPC3 were decreased in PCECs exposed to hyperkalemic solutions (10, 20 or 120 mM K+) in a concentration‐dependent manner and similar reductions occurred in cardioplegic exposure (ST, HTK or UW solution). The reduction was prevented by TRPC3/6/7 activator OAG. Hyperkalemic or cardioplegic solutions decreased EDHF‐mediated relaxation that was restored by OAG‐addition (in 20 mM K+: 52.5±4.0% vs. 67.2±4.3%; in ST: 52.2±4.8% vs. 65.0±4.8%; p&lt;0.01). We conclude that the decrease of Ca2+ influx via TRPC3 is involved in endothelial [Ca2+]i reduction caused by depolarizing cardioplegia. TRPC activation restores Ca2+ influx and prevents EDHF impairment. This study may provide new insight for improvement of cardioplegic solutions.Supported by GRF CUHK4789/09M; CUHK2041688; China Nat'l Ministry of Sci. &amp; Tech. 2009DFB30560 &amp; 2010CB529502(973); Tianjin Municipal Sci. &amp; Tech. Commission 09ZCZDSF04200 &amp; 10JCYBJC26400.

Differential genomic changes caused by cholesterol- and PUFA-rich diets in regenerated porcine coronary endothelial cells

Endothelial regeneration and dyslipidemia impair endothelium-dependent relaxation, while supplementation with fish oil (FO) prevents it. The genomic impact of different diets was compared in primary cultures derived from native and regenerated endothelial cells. Pigs were fed with high-cholesterol (CHL) or FO-rich diet. Partial in vivo removal of endothelium was performed to induce endothelial regeneration. Native and regenerated cells were harvested, cultured, and prepared for genomic (microarray experiments, real-time PCR) and proteomic (Western blotting) analysis. The analysis identified genomic changes induced by chronic CHL diet in native cultures resembling those induced by in vivo regeneration, as well as those that could be prevented by FO diet. At the protein level, the reduced and increased presences of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and F2, respectively, observed after regeneration combined with CHL diet were alleviated by FO. The comparison of the differential changes induced by regeneration in vivo in endothelial cells from both diet groups revealed a limited number of genes as the most likely contributors to reduction in endothelium-dependent relaxations in porcine coronary arteries lined with regenerated endothelium.

CCK receptors-related signaling involved in nitric oxide production caused by gastrin 17 in porcine coronary endothelial cells

In anesthetized pigs gastrin-17 increased coronary blood flow through CCK1/CCK2 receptors and β2-adrenoceptors-related nitric oxide (NO) release. Since the intracellular pathway has not been investigated the purpose of this study was to examine in coronary endothelial cells the CCK1/CCK2 receptors-related signaling involved in the effects of gastrin-17 on NO release. Gastrin-17 caused a concentration-dependent increase of NO production (17.3–62.6%; p<0.05), which was augmented by CCK1/CCK2 receptors agonists (p<0.05). The effect of gastrin-17 was amplified by the adenylyl-cyclase activator and β2-adrenoceptors agonist (p<0.05), abolished by cAMP/PKA and β2-adrenoceptors and CCK1/CCK2 receptors blockers, and reduced by PLC/PKC inhibitor. Finally, Western-blot revealed the preferential involvement of PKA vs. PKC as downstream effectors of CCK1/CCK2 receptors activation leading to Akt, ERK, p38 and endothelial NOS (eNOS) phosphorylation. In conclusion, in coronary endothelial cells, gastrin-17 induced eNOS-dependent NO production through CCK1/CCK2 receptors- and β2-adrenoceptors-related pathway. The intracellular signaling involved a preferential PKA pathway over PKC.

TRPC3 channel contributes to nitric oxide release: significance during normoxia and hypoxia–reoxygenation

Intracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)) regulation in endothelial cells depends on transient receptor potential channels (TRPs), and the role of canonical TRPs (TRPCs) during hypoxia-reoxygenation (H-R) is unclear. We hypothesized that TRPC3 contributes to endothelial nitric oxide (NO) release and that H-R may reduce TRPC3 activity and the associated endothelial function, including NO release. Measurements of [Ca(2+)](i) and patch-clamp study in primary cultured porcine coronary endothelial cells, measurements of NO and endothelium-dependent relaxation in porcine coronary arteries, and RT-PCR and western blot were conducted. Pre-treatment with SKF96365 (an inhibitor of TRPCs) or the selective TRPC3 inhibitor Pyr3 significantly decreased bradykinin-induced vasorelaxation. One hour of hypoxia followed by reoxygenation significantly reduced the vasorelaxation (70.3 ± 6.4 vs. 88.9 ± 3.5%) and NO concentration (24.0 ± 1.3 vs. 45.2 ± 2.8 nmol/L), and they were restored by pre-incubation with the TRPC3/6/7 activator 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (96.4 ± 1.8% and 41.1 ± 4.7 nmol/L, respectively). In porcine coronary endothelial cells, H-R inhibited bradykinin-activated membrane current (8.6 ± 0.4 vs. 14.0 ± 1.5 pA/pF) and Pyr3-sensitive TRPC3 current (3.8 ± 0.3 vs. 6.3 ± 0.6 pA/pF; P< 0.01). H-R also inhibited bradykinin-induced Ca(2+) influx and the Ca(2+) influx via TRPC3. Cell surface expression of TRPC3 was decreased after H-R. We have, for the first time, demonstrated that Ca(2+) entry via endothelial TRPC3 contributes to NO release and have revealed that H-R is associated with inhibition of TRPC3 activity. Inhibition of channel trafficking to the cell surface is involved in the underlying mechanism of the decrease of TRPC3 current and the reduction in Ca(2+) entry through TRPC3 during H-R. This study suggests that TRPC3 may have the potential to be a new target for endothelial protection during H-R.

Secretoneurin facilitates endothelium-dependent relaxations in porcine coronary arteries

Secretoneurin enhances the adhesion and transendothelial migration properties of monocytes and is a part of the peptide family encoded by the secretogranin II gene. The expression of the secretogranin II gene is upregulated in senescent endothelium. The present study was designed to examine the effects of secretoneurin on endothelium-dependent responsiveness. Isometric tension was measured in rings (with or without endothelium) of porcine coronary arteries. Secretoneurin did not induce contraction of quiescent or contracted rings. In preparations contracted by U-46619, relaxation was observed with high concentrations of the peptide. This relaxation was endothelium dependent and reduced by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME). It was abolished when the preparations were incubated with l-NAME in combination with the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin. The relaxation was not affected by the combination of 1-[(2-chlorophenyl)diphenylmethyl]-1H-pyrazole (TRAM-34) and 6,12,19,20,25,26-hexahydro-5,27:13,18:21,24-trietheno-11,7-etheno-7H-dibenzo[b,m][1,5,12,16]tetraazacyclotricosine-5,13-diiumditrifluoroacetate hydrate (UCL 1684), which abrogates endothelium-dependent hyperpolarizations. These results indicate that secretoneurin acutely induces relaxation through the activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and cyclooxygenase, with nitric oxide playing the dominant role. Prolonged (24 h) incubation with physiological concentrations of secretoneurin enhanced the relaxations to bradykinin and to the calcium ionophore A-23187, but this difference was not observed in preparations incubated with l-NAME or the calmodulin antagonist calmidazolium. Under these conditions, the relaxation to sodium nitroprusside remained unchanged. Incubation with secretoneurin significantly augmented the expression of eNOS and calmodulin as well as the dimerization of eNOS in cultures of porcine coronary arterial endothelial cells. These observations suggest that secretoneurin not only acutely causes but also, upon prolonged exposure, enhances endothelium-dependent relaxations.

Senescence of Cultured Porcine Coronary Arterial Endothelial Cells Is Associated with Accelerated Oxidative Stress and Activation of NFĸB

Aims: Endothelial dysfunction occurs following multiple passaging in vitro,but the molecular mechanisms involved remain unidentified. The present study defined the genomic changes related to dysfunction in cultured senescent endothelial cells. Methods and Results: Senescent cells were produced by multiple passaging of porcine coronary arterial endothelial cells for up to 4 weeks. Genomic and proteomic studies on cultured cells at the first passage (P1) and the fourth passage (P4) were performed. Senescence and decreased NO production were observed in cells and several signaling pathways – such as IFN/STAT, IGF, TGF-β, cytoskeleton rearrangement and lipid metabolism – were altered at P4, as judged from the microarray analysis. The basal and stimulated (by TNF-α) levels of NFĸB were augmented in senescent cells in electrophoretic mobility shift assays in association with increased oxidative stress, increased p53 protein stability, and activated apoptotic pathways. The increased oxidative stress was alleviated by treatment with the superoxide dismutase mimetic MnTMPyP. Conclusions: After multiple passaging in vitro, porcine coronary endothelial cells exhibited dysfunction and senescence associated with reduced proliferative capacity, increased oxidative stress, and activation of the NFĸB and p53 signaling pathways.

Intracoronary intermedin 1–47 augments cardiac perfusion and function in anesthetized pigs: role of calcitonin receptors and β-adrenoreceptor-mediated nitric oxide release

Systemic intermedin (IMD)1-47 administration has been reported to result in vasodilation and marked hypotension through calcitonin-related receptor complexes. However, its effects on the coronary circulation and the heart have not been examined in vivo. The present study was therefore planned to determine the primary in vivo effect of IMD1-47 on coronary blood flow and cardiac function and the involvement of the autonomic nervous system and nitric oxide (NO). In 35 anesthetized pigs, IMD1-47, infused into the left anterior descending coronary artery at doses of 87.2 pmol/min, at constant heart rate and arterial blood pressure, augmented coronary blood flow and cardiac function. These responses were graded in a further five pigs by increasing the infused dose of IMD1-47 between 0.81 and 204.1 pmol/min. In the 35 pigs, the blockade of cholinergic receptors (intravenous atropine, 5 pigs), alpha-adrenoceptors (intravenous phentolamine, 5 pigs), and beta1-adrenoceptors (intravenous atenolol, 5 pigs) did not abolish the cardiac response to IMD1-47, the effects of which were prevented by blockade of beta2-adrenoceptors (intravenous butoxamine, 5 pigs), NO synthase (intracoronary N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, 5 pigs), and calcitonin-related receptors (intracoronary CGRP8-37/AM22-52, 10 pigs). In porcine coronary endothelial cells, IMD1-47 induced the phosphorylation of endothelial NO synthase and NO production through cAMP signaling leading to ERK, Akt, and p38 activation, which was prevented by the inhibition of beta2-adrenoceptors, calcitonin-related receptor complexes, and K+ channels. In conclusion, IMD1-47 primarily augmented coronary blood flow and cardiac function through the involvement of calcitonin-related receptor complexes and beta2-adrenoreceptor-mediated NO release. The intracellular signaling involved cAMP-dependent activation of kinases and the opening of K+ channels.

Levosimendan induces NO production through p38 MAPK, ERK and Akt in porcine coronary endothelial cells: role for mitochondrial KATPchannel

Levosimendan acts as a vasodilator through the opening of ATP-sensitive K(+) channels (K(ATP)) channels. Moreover, the coronary vasodilatation caused by levosimendan in anaesthetized pigs has recently been found to be abolished by the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, indicating that nitric oxide (NO) has a role in the vascular effects of levosimendan. However, the intracellular pathway leading to NO production caused by levosimendan has not yet been investigated. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of levosimendan on NO production and to evaluate the intracellular signalling pathway involved. In porcine coronary endothelial cells (CEC), the release of NO in response to levosimendan was examined in the presence and absence of N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, an adenylyl cyclase inhibitor, K(ATP) channel agonists and antagonists, and inhibitors of intracellular protein kinases. In addition, the role of Akt, ERK, p38 and eNOS was investigated through Western blot analysis. Levosimendan caused a concentration-dependent and K(+)-related increase of NO production. This effect was amplified by the mitochondrial K(ATP) channel agonist, but not by the selective plasma membrane K(ATP) channel agonist. The response of CEC to levosimendan was prevented by the K(ATP) channel blockers, the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor and the Akt, ERK, p38 inhibitors. Western blot analysis showed that phosphorylation of the above kinases lead to eNOS activation. In CEC levosimendan induced eNOS-dependent NO production through Akt, ERK and p38. This intracellular pathway is associated with the opening of mitochondrial K(ATP) channels and involves cAMP.

The presence and activity of SP-D in porcine coronary endothelial cells depend on Akt/PI3K, Erk and nitric oxide and decrease after multiple passaging

Surfactant protein D (SP-D) mediates clearance of microorganisms and modulates inflammation in response to cytotoxic stimulation. It is present in various epithelia, but also in vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells. Experiments were designed to determine whether or not SP-D is present in porcine coronary arterial endothelial cells and if so, to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying this presence. The expression of SP-D, NO synthase, Akt 1/2 and Erk 1/2 proteins was determined in cultures at passages 1 (#1) and 4 (#4). SP-D in primary cells existed in three isoforms (37–38kDa and 50kDa). The 37–38kDa SP-D forms were the dominant isoforms in the porcine endothelium and were prominent at #1 but partially lost at #4. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) significantly augmented the level of SP-D expression at #1 but not at #4. The basal level of 37–38kDa SP-D isoforms at #1 was reduced by L-NAME, wortmannin and PD 98059. The low basal expression at #4 could be increased by DETA NONOate (donor of NO) or insulin (activator of PI3K/Akt). The presence of nitric oxide synthase was reduced while that of Akt 1/2 and Erk 1/2 was increased at #4. In cells both at passages 1 and 4, TNF-α downregulated NO synthase and up-regulated p-Erk 1/2 protein. The present findings demonstrate the presence of SP-D in endothelial cells which is NO-, PI3K/Akt- and Erk-dependent. They suggest a protective role of SP-D in these cells.

Genomic Changes in Regenerated Porcine Coronary Arterial Endothelial Cells

Genomic changes were defined in cultures of regenerated porcine coronary endothelial cells to explain the alterations that underlie their dysfunction. Regeneration of the endothelium was triggered in vivo by endothelial balloon denudation. After 28 days, both left circumflex (native cells) and left anterior descending (regenerated cells) coronary arteries were dissected, their endothelial cells harvested, and primary cultures established. The basal cyclic GMP production was reduced in regenerated cells without significant reduction in the response to bradykinin and A23187. The mRNA expression levels in both native and regenerated cells were measured by microarray and RT-PCR. The comparison revealed genomic changes related to vasomotor control (cyclooxygenase-1, angiotensin II receptor), coagulation (F2 and TFPI), oxidative stress (Mn SOD, GPX3, and GSR), lipid metabolism (PLA2 and HPGD), and extracellular matrix (MMPs). A-FABP and MMP7 were induced by regeneration. RT-PCR revealed upregulation of A-FABP and downregulation of eNOS and TR. The differential gene expression profiles were confirmed at the protein level by Western blotting for eNOS, F2, Mn SOD, MMP7, and TR. Cultures from regenerated coronary endothelial cells exhibit genomic changes explaining endothelial dysfunction and suggesting facilitation of coagulation, lipid peroxidation, and extracellular matrix remodeling.