bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alpha-adrenergic vasoconstriction in normal and hypoperfused myocardium during sympathetic nerve stimulation
Authors: Westby J. , Birkeland S. , Rynning S. E. , Myking O. L. , Lekven J. , Grong K.
Published: December 2017

Coronary vasoconstriction mediated by postjunctional alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenergic receptors was studied in normally perfused (control group) and left coronary hypoperfused (stenosis group) hearts of vagotomized, beta-blocked (propranolol) cats. Cardiac sympathetic nerve stimulation was combined with alpha 1- and subsequent alpha 2-adrenergic antagonism (doxazosin and SK &F 104078). Coronary perfusion pressure and heart rate were kept constant within groups; regional myocardial blood flow and cardiac output were obtained by means of microspheres with concomitant measurement of left ventricular myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2). alpha 1-Adrenergic antagonism alone did not significantly alter blood flow in any wall layer in either group. Subsequent alpha 2-adrenergic antagonism increased epicardial as well as composite transmural flow in the stenosis group (P < 0.025). The inverse correlation between coronary resistance and MVO2 vanished in the stenosis group following alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenergic antagonism. Maximal first derivative of the left ventricular pressure-time relation (dP/dt) and cardiac output were reduced simultaneously (P < 0.001). Hence, the significance of alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenergic stimulation of inotropy and cardiac performance are augmented by myocardial hypoperfusion. Furthermore, alpha 2-adrenergic receptors are responsible for epicardial vasoconstriction in hypoperfused myocardium.
Microvascular ischemia-reperfusion injury in striated muscle: significance of "reflow paradox"
Authors: Menger M. D. , Pelikan S. , Steiner D. , Messmer K.
Published: December 2017

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R)-induced microvascular injury is characterized by capillary “no-reflow” and reflow-associated events, termed “reflow paradox,” including leukocyte-endothelium interaction and increase in microvascular permeability. The major objectives of this study were 1) to elucidate the significance of reflow paradox after 4 h of tourniquet-induced ischemia in striated muscle and 2) to determine the role of reactive oxygen metabolites in the pathogenesis of reflow paradox-dependent microcirculatory alterations. By use of in vivo fluorescence microscopy in a striated muscle preparation of hamsters, leukocyte-endothelium interaction in postcapillary venules and macromolecular extravasation from capillaries and venules were quantified before ischemia and after 30 min, 2 h, and 24 h of reperfusion. I/R elicited marked enhancement (P < 0.01) of leukocyte rolling during initial reperfusion and a 20-fold increase of leukocyte adherence (P < 0.01) lasting for the entire postischemic reperfusion period (n = 7). These phenomena were accompanied by significant leakage (P< 0.01) of macromolecules from capillaries and in particular from postcapillary venules (n = 9). Both superoxide dismutase (SOD, 20 mg/kg body wt, n = 7) and allopurinol (50 mg/kg body wt, n = 7) were effective in attenuating I/R-induced leukocyte rolling and adherence. In addition, microvascular leakage was significantly reduced by allopurinol (n = 9) and completely abolished by SOD (n = 9) (P < 0.01). These results support the concept that reactive oxygen metabolites contribute to I/R-induced reflow paradox, resulting in leukocyte accumulation, adherence, and increase in microvascular permeability.
Systemic hemodynamics and oxygen transport during pregnancy in chronically instrumented, conscious rats
Authors: Gilson G. J. , Mosher M. D. , Conrad K. P.
Published: December 2017

Knowledge about possible alterations in cardiac output (CO), total peripheral vascular resistance (TPVR), and their time course and magnitude of change is conspicuously lacking for the conscious gravid rat. Therefore, we assessed CO using Fick methodology in unrestrained, chronically instrumented, conscious rats. The rats were studied during early (day 7), mid (day 13), or late gestation (day 18) along with nonpregnant control rats matched with respect to age and days postsurgery. Significant differences between pregnant and nonpregnant rats were observed during midgestation, when CO was increased by 26 +/- 12% and TPVR was decreased by 23 +/- 9% in the pregnant animals. These changes were accompanied by a narrowed arterial-mixed venous oxygen content difference (AVD; P < 0.05 vs. nonpregnant). In late gravid rats, CO was higher than nonpregnant values by 49 +/- 8%, and TPVR was lower by 34 +/- 7% (both P < 0.05). Oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production were significantly increased, and AVD further narrowed when compared with the nonpregnant control group. With the exception of absent chronic respiratory alkalosis in pregnant rats, we conclude that cardiovascular and respiratory changes in conscious, gravid rats and in pregnant women are comparable. We speculate that the ultimate purpose of many of these adaptations is to increase CO so that oxygen delivery and the supply of nutrients to the uteroplacental units are sufficient or more than sufficient to meet oxygen and nutrient demands. At midgestation, the rise in CO seems to anticipate the oxygen needs of the nascent uteroplacental units.
Nitric oxide production within cardiac myocytes reduces their contractility in endotoxemia
Authors: Brady A. J. , Poole-Wilson P. A. , Harding S. E. , Warren J. B.
Published: December 2017

We investigated whether increased nitric oxide (NO) synthase activity within cardiac myocytes contributes to the depressed cardiac contractility observed in endotoxic shock. Isolated ventricular myocytes were studied to examine the effects of substrates and inhibitors of NO synthase on myocyte contractility. When stimulated electrically, the resting length of myocytes from control animals shortened by 5.3 +/- 0.3% (means +/- SE, n = 32). Baseline contraction of myocytes from endotoxin-treated animals was reduced to 3.0 +/- 0.3% (n = 17, P < 0.001). The NO synthase inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10(-4) M) had no effect on myocytes from control animals, but it increased the contraction of myocytes from endotoxin-treated animals by 40% (fractional shortening increased to 4.3 +/- 0.4%, P < 0.01). Similar results were obtained with NG-methyl-L-arginine. The effect of L-NAME could be reversed by excess L-arginine, but not D-arginine. The effect of endotoxin was abolished by dexamethasone pretreatment. Methylene blue also reversed the effects of endotoxin but had toxic effects on myocytes. Agents that either prevent synthesis or the effects of NO reverse the depression of myocyte contraction seen following endotoxin treatment.
Effects of perfusion pressure on intracellular calcium, energetics, and function in perfused rat hearts
Authors: Kojima S. , Wu S. T. , Watters T. A. , Parmley W. W. , Wikman-Coffelt J.
Published: December 2017

Effects of perfusion pressure in a range from 50 to 140 cmH2O on intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) were evaluated along with cardiac function, energy metabolism, and left ventricular geometry in a concentration of 2 or 4 mM of extracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]o) in isovolumic perfused rat hearts. [Ca2+]i was evaluated with a surface fluorometry technique in hearts loaded with indo-1/AM. The systolic and diastolic values and the amplitude (difference between systolic and diastolic values) of indo-1 fluorescence ratio (an index of [Ca2+]i) were linearly related to perfusion pressure. Changes in the fluorescence ratio were harmonious with rapid changes in left ventricular pressure and stabilized within 30-40 s after changes in perfusion pressure. Developed pressure and O2 consumption were closely, linearly correlated with the fluorescence ratio irrespective of [Ca2+]o. Left ventricular end-diastolic wall thickness, measured by 2-dimensional echocardiography, paralleled perfusion pressure and showed a good correlation with the fluorescence ratio. Diastolic myocardial adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate significantly decreased only at the lowest perfusion pressure. The ln[phosphocreatine]/[Pi] also changed with altered perfusion pressure. In conclusion, perfusion pressure modulates [Ca2+]i, which in turn regulates myocardial contraction and associated O2 utilization.
Effects of coronary arterial reperfusion on beta-adrenergic receptor-adenylyl cyclase coupling
Authors: Vatner D. E. , Kiuchi K. , Manders W. T. , Vatner S. F.
Published: December 2017

The effects of 1 h of coronary arterial occlusion (CAO) followed by 15 min reperfusion (CAR) were examined in nine conscious dogs. Ischemia was verified by decreased regional blood flow (radioactive microspheres) and loss of systolic regional wall motion in the ischemic zone. beta-Adrenergic receptor density assessed by 125I-labeled cyanopindolol binding in a crude membrane fraction tended to decrease but was not significantly different. However, adenylyl cyclase activity and the guanine nucleotide stimulatory protein (Gs) were reduced in ischemic subendocardium compared with nonischemic subendocardium. The fraction of beta-adrenergic receptors binding agonist with high affinity increased in ischemic subendocardial and subepicardial layers. Compared with prior data in experiments with 1 h CAO without CAR, the increase in beta-adrenergic receptor density that occurs with myocardial ischemia is rapidly reversed with CAR of 15 min duration, while the decreased fraction of receptors binding agonist with high affinity was reversed to an increase in high-affinity receptors. The global decreases in adenylyl cyclase and Gs, which have been observed with simple CAO, persist but are observed selectively in the previously ischemic subendocardium after CAR. Thus both CAO and CAR affect beta-adrenergic receptors and adenylyl cyclase differently. During CAR, increased numbers of beta-adrenergic receptors binding agonist with high affinity occur potentially as a compensatory mechanism in the face of persistent reductions in adenylyl cyclase activity and Gs.
Transforming growth factor-beta attenuates ischemia-induced alterations in cerebrovascular responses
Authors: Armstead W. M. , Mirro R. , Zuckerman S. L. , Shibata M. , Leffler C. W.
Published: December 2017

We observed previously that 20 min of global cerebral ischemia followed by 45 min of reperfusion selectively blocked cerebral vasodilation to hypercapnia and hypotension. This study determines the effects of pretreatment with transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) on cerebrovascular responses after cerebral ischemia in piglets equipped with closed cranial windows. Hypercapnia-induced pial arteriolar dilation was blocked after cerebral ischemia (20 +/- 1 vs. 2 +/- 1% dilation before and after ischemia, respectively). Similarly, the increases in periarachnoid cortical cerebrospinal fluid 6-ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) concentration in response to hypercapnia were blocked (2.5 +/- 0.2- vs. 0.2 +/- 0.4-fold and 2.1 +/- 0.1- vs. 0.3 +/- 0.4-fold increase in 6-keto-PGF1 alpha and PGE2, respectively). Treatment with topical TGF-beta (400 ng/ml) before and during ischemia-reperfusion attenuated the loss of hypercapnia-induced cerebrovascular dilation (20 +/- 1 vs. 14 +/- 1% dilation before and after ischemia, respectively) and the loss of associated changes in cerebrospinal fluid prostanoids (2.0 +/- 0.2- vs. 1.7 +/- 0.2-fold and 2.3 +/- 0.2- vs. 2.2 +/- 0.3-fold increase in 6-keto-PGF1 alpha and PGE2 before and after ischemia, respectively). The loss of cerebrovascular dilation in response to hemorrhagic hypotension after ischemia was similarly prevented by TGF-beta. Cerebrovascular dilation to topical isoproterenol was unchanged after ischemia. TGF-beta may preserve endothelial cell function. We conclude that topical TGF-beta can attenuate cerebromicrovascular compromise caused by ischemia-reperfusion in newborn pigs.
Effects of afterload and heart rate on NAD(P)H redox state in the isolated rabbit heart
Authors: Heineman F. W. , Balaban R. S.
Published: December 2017

NAD(P)H redox state was monitored using surface fluorescence in isolated, normothermic, working rabbit hearts under conditions of limited substrate (glucose alone) and abundant substrate (glucose + lactate). To alter work, afterload was varied between 75 and 150 cmH2O or heart rate was increased in steps until no further increase in myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2) occurred. Alterations in afterload did not cause a significant change in NAD(P)H fluorescence. Progressive increases in heart rate did not alter NAD(P)H emission until MVO2 began to decline (approximately 300 beats/min), ventricular performance decompensated, and there was evidence of ischemia, at which time NAD(P)H fluorescence increased. Although the addition of 3 mM lactate to the perfusate resulted in a rapid increase in NAD(P)H fluorescence, NAD(P)H fluorescence still did not respond to altered workload. The results suggest that NAD(P)H redox state is not the primary stimulus for increased myocardial respiration secondary to tachycardia or afterload. However, despite increased rates of cardiac work, NAD(P)H was maintained at a relatively stable level, suggesting that reducing equivalent supply to the electron transport chain increases in parallel with increased MVO2.
Mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity affects adaptation of cardiac oxygen consumption to demand
Authors: Hak J. B. , Van Beek J. H. , Eijgelshoven M. H. , Westerhof N.
Published: December 2017

The effect of regulation of mitochondrial dehydrogenase activities on the mean response time of mitochondrial oxygen consumption, which characterizes the delay between changes in ATP hydrolysis and changes in oxygen consumption, was investigated in isolated rabbit hearts and perfused with Tyrode solution at 28 degrees C. Perfusion with ruthenium red (RR) blocks mitochondrial calcium uptake and thus decreases mitochondrial dehydrogenase activities. Perfusion with pyruvate increases pyruvate dehydrogenase activity. The mean response time was 11.8 +/- 0.7 s (means +/- SE) during control, 12.2 +/- 1.2 s during perfusion with 0.9 microgram/ml RR, and 20.7 +/- 3.4 s during perfusion with 2.1 micrograms/ml RR. Blockade with 0.9 microgram/ml RR, which is presumably partial, did not slow the response, suggesting that mitochondrial calcium uptake may not be rate limiting. Strong blockade of mitochondrial calcium uptake increases the mean response time, presumably due to decreased calcium activation of the mitochondrial dehydrogenases. Perfusion with pyruvate significantly decreased the mean response time to 10.0 +/- 1.4 s compared with 11.9 +/- 0.7 s during perfusion with glucose. This decrease with pyruvate is not compatible with a shift to regulation by high-energy phosphates but may reflect increased mitochondrial oxidative capacity caused by increased NADH levels.
Nitric oxide as a regulator of adrenal blood flow
Authors: Breslow M. J. , Tobin J. R. , Bredt D. S. , Ferris C. D. , Snyder S. H. , Traystman R. J.
Published: December 2017

To determine whether nitric oxide (NO) is involved in adrenal medullary vasodilation during splanchnic nerve stimulation (NS)-induced catecholamine secretion, blood flow (Q) and secretory responses were measured in pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs before and after administration of the NO synthase inhibitor, NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). L-NAME (40 mg/kg iv over 5 min, followed by 40 mg.kg-1.h-1) reduced NO synthase activity of medullary and cortical homogenates from 5.2 +/- 0.3 to 0.7 +/- 0.1 pmol.min-1.mg protein-1 and from 1.2 +/- 0.2 pmol.min-1.mg protein-1 to undetectable levels, respectively. L-NAME reduced resting medullary and cortical Q by 42 and 60%, respectively. NS before L-NAME increased medullary Q from 181 +/- 16 to 937 +/- 159 ml.min-1.100 g-1 and epinephrine secretion from 1.9 +/- 0.8 to 781 +/- 331 ng/min. NS after L-NAME had no effect on medullary Q (103 +/- 14 vs. 188 +/- 34 ml.min-1.100 g-1), while epinephrine secretion increased to the same extent as in control animals (1.9 +/- 0.7 vs. 576 +/- 250 ng/min). L-NAME also unmasked NS-induced cortical vasoconstriction; cortical Q decreased from 96 +/- 8 to 50 +/- 5 ml.min-1.100 g-1. Administration of hexamethonium (30 mg/kg iv), a nicotinic receptor antagonist, reduced NS-induced epinephrine secretion by 90%. These data suggest independent neural control of medullary Q and catecholamine secretion, the former by NO and the latter by acetylcholine.
Different responses of the human gastroepiploic and internal mammary arteries to vasoactive peptides
Authors: Luu T. N. , Chester A. H. , O'Neil G. S. , Tadjkarimi S. , Pepper J. R. , Yacoub M. H.
Published: December 2017

Peptidergic influences have been implicated in the control of tone in human arteries. We have examined the response of human gastroepiploic arteries (GEA) and internal mammary arteries (IMA) to three vasoactive peptides in vitro. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP, 10(-11) to 3 x 10(-7) M) elicited relaxations in the GEA and IMA [maximum generated response (Emax) 74.6 +/- 9.4 and 56.5 +/- 7.7%, respectively] that were significantly reduced after removal of endothelium. NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) and indomethacin partially inhibited the response of the GEA to VIP (P < 0.05). In the IMA, VIP-induced relaxation was significantly attenuated by L-NMMA but not indomethacin. Bombesin (10(-10) to 3 x 10(-6) M) produced endothelium-dependent relaxation selectively in the GEA, which was only inhibited by indomethacin (Emax reduced from 59.0 +/- 10.0 to 12.8 +/- 4.9%, P < 0.001). Bombesin elicited a weak endothelium-independent constriction in the IMA, giving 12.7 +/- 1.2% of the response to 90 mM KCl. Gastrin (10(-10) to 3 x 10(-7) M) had no effect on IMA segments but induced a relaxation of 40.0 +/- 3.2% in the GEA via a direct action on the smooth muscle. It is concluded that human GEA and IMA exhibit heterogenous responses to VIP, bombesin, and gastrin that may have important physiological and clinical implications.
Cardiac functional responses to adenosine by PD 81,723, an allosteric enhancer of the adenosine A1 receptor
Authors: Mudumbi R. V. , Montamat S. C. , Bruns R. F. , Vestal R. E.
Published: December 2017

Adenosine, a locally released and rapidly metabolized nucleoside, protects the heart from damage during ischemia by reducing oxygen demand and increasing oxygen supply. The aminothiophene derivative (2-amino-4,5-dimethylthien-3-yl)[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-met hanone (PD 81,723) has been shown to act as an allosteric enhancer of the adenosine A1 receptor in brain membranes and thyroid cells. The present study investigates the effects of PD 81,723 in spontaneously contracting right atria and electrically stimulated left atria isolated from Sprague-Dawley rats. N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA), an adenosine A1 receptor agonist, produced concentration-dependent inhibition of heart rate in right atria and contractile parameters in left atria. In the right atrium, 5 microM of PD 81,723 significantly shifted the concentration-response curves for CPA to the left, both in the absence and presence of a nonselective adenosine receptor antagonist, 8-(p-sulfophenyl)theophylline (8-SPT, 10 microM). In the left atrium, PD 81,723 also shifted the concentration-response curves for CPA to the left, but only in the presence of 8-SPT. Potentiation of CPA-induced negative chronotropic and inotropic responses with PD 81,723, although not significant, was also observed in the presence of a selective adenosine A1 receptor antagonist, 1,3-dipropyl-8-cyclopentylxanthine (DPCPX, 1 nM). These results demonstrate that PD 81,723 enhances the direct negative chronotropic and inotropic effects of adenosine A1 receptor activation in rat atria.
Glycolysis is necessary to preserve myocardial Ca2+ homeostasis during beta-adrenergic stimulation
Authors: Nakamura K. , Kusuoka H. , Ambrosio G. , Becker L. C.
Published: December 2017

Although ATP derived from glycolysis represents only a small fraction of total myocardial ATP production, metabolic compartmentation may result in preferential use of glycolytic ATP for certain membrane activities, including pumping of Ca2+ from the cytoplasm. We tested this hypothesis by looking for evidence of Ca2+ overload in normoxic perfused rabbit hearts given iodoacetate (IAA, 50 microM) to block glycolysis and isoproterenol (Iso, 0.05 microM) to stimulate Ca2+ entry. The hearts beat isovolumically and were perfused with 16 mM glucose and 5 or 10 mM pyruvate (to preserve oxidative metabolism) in a superconducting magnet for 31P-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements of high energy phosphates or 19F-NMR measurements of intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). IAA by itself had no effect on left ventricular (LV) developed pressure, end-diastolic pressure, pressure-rate product, or tissue high-energy phosphates. During exposure to Iso, mean LV end-diastolic pressure increased from 10.7 to 49.3 mmHg in hearts pretreated with IAA (n = 7) but did not change in control hearts (n = 7). During Iso, there were substantial reductions in developed pressure, ATP, and phosphocreatine in IAA-treated hearts but not in control hearts. After exposure to IAA and Iso, a doubling of diastolic [Ca2+]i was observed with 19F-NMR. In IAA-treated hearts, reduction of perfusate Ca2+ concentration from 2.5 to 0.6 mM during Iso exposure (n = 6) prevented the mechanical dysfunction and decrease in high-energy phosphates. These findings suggest that glycolysis is necessary to preserve myocardial Ca2+ homeostasis during beta-adrenergic stimulation.
Formation and salvage of adenosine by macrovascular endothelial cells
Authors: Deussen A. , Bading B. , Kelm M. , Schrader J.
Published: December 2017

Contribution of extracellular adenine nucleotide degradation to adenosine formation and internal salvage of adenosine via adenosine kinase were quantified in macrovascular porcine endothelial cells. Microcarrier beads covered with endothelial cells were kept in a perfusion column at a flow rate of 2 ml/min. Total adenine nucleotide (AN) release was quantified with a sensitive firefly luciferin-luciferase assay after enzymatic rephosphorylation of AMP and ADP to ATP. Adenosine (ADO) was measured by radioimmunoassay or high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques. Basal AN and ADO release under steady-state conditions were 2.2 and 13.8 pmol.min-1 x ml column volume (CV)-1, respectively. Inhibition of adenosine deaminase with erythro-9-(2-hydroxy-3-nonyl)adenine (5 x 10(-6) M) enhanced ADO release by 3.3 pmol.min-1 x ml CV-1, and AN release remained unchanged (2.8 pmol.min-1 x ml CV-1). Inhibition of adenosine kinase by 5-iodotubercidine (10(-5) M) greatly enhanced ADO release by 97.7 pmol.min-1 x ml CV-1, while AN release was unaffected. Inhibition of ecto-5'-nucleotidase by alpha,beta-methylene-ADP (5 x 10(-5) M) enhanced AN release from 2.6 to 8.2 pmol.min-1 x ml CV-1 and reduced ADO release by an equivalent extent. Stimulation of endothelial cells with Ca ionophore A23187 dose dependently augmented AN and ADO release to 2,013.2 and 92.5 pmol.min-1 x ml CV-1, respectively. Thrombin (1 U/ml) enhanced AN release from 5.0 to 8.7 pmol.min-1 x ml CV-1, whereas several other endothelium-dependent and -independent vasodilators including acetylcholine, bradykinin, isoproterenol, and norepinephrine were proven to have no significant effect.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Lysophosphatidylcholine modifies G protein-dependent signaling in porcine endothelial cells
Authors: Flavahan N. A.
Published: December 2017

Certain endothelial receptors are coupled to a pertussis toxin-sensitive inhibitory guanine nucleotide-binding regulatory (Gi) protein. In pigs, hypercholesterolemia causes a selective impairment of this Gi protein-dependent pathway. Recent studies have suggested that hypercholesterolemia-induced endothelial dysfunction may be caused by lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) derived from oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The aim of the present study was to determine whether LPC could inhibit the Gi protein-dependent pathway. Isolated rings of porcine coronary arteries were suspended for isometric tension recording in organ chambers filled with physiological salt solution (37 degrees C, 95% O2-5% CO2). In rings with endothelium contracted with prostaglandin F2 alpha, pertussis toxin (100 ng/ml) or LPC (10(-5) M) inhibited the endothelium-dependent relaxations evoked by UK-14,304, an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist, or by serotonin, but not those caused by bradykinin or ADP. LPC also did not inhibit relaxations produced by SIN 1, an endothelium-derived relaxing factor-nitric oxide donor. After treatment of the rings with pertussis toxin, LPC no longer inhibited the endothelium-dependent relaxations to serotonin. Although LPC inhibited the responses of membrane-bound receptors that activate the pertussis toxin-sensitive Gi protein, LPC did not affect the endothelium-dependent relaxations evoked by direct activation of the pertussis toxin-sensitive Gi protein by fluoride. These results suggest that LPC selectively inhibits a Gi protein-dependent pathway in porcine endothelial cells possibly by disrupting receptor-G protein interactions. LPC that is associated with oxidized LDL may mediate in part the dysfunction in the endothelial Gi protein-dependent pathway associated with hypercholesterolemia.
Intracellular mechanisms mediating reversal of beta-adrenergic stimulation in intact beating hearts
Authors: Talosi L. , Edes I. , Kranias E. G.
Published: December 2017

The changes in 32P labeling of phosphoproteins were studied in Langendorff-perfused guinea pig hearts during reversal of the stimulatory effects of isoproterenol. Exposure of the hearts to isoproterenol was associated with significant increases in adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) levels and in the phosphate incorporation into phospholamban in sarcoplasmic reticulum, the 15-kDa protein in the sarcolemma, and troponin I in the myofibrils. Phospholamban was phosphorylated on serine and threonine residues, both of which are sites for cAMP-dependent and Ca(2+)-calmodulin-dependent protein kinases, respectively. Termination of isoproterenol infusion was associated with reversal of the mechanical effects of isoproterenol stimulation and reversal of the increases in tissue cAMP levels. However, the decreases in cAMP levels correlated only with dephosphorylation of phosphoserine in phospholamban. Dephosphorylation of phosphothreonine in phospholamban, the 15-kDa sarcolemmal protein, and troponin I occurred at a slower rate. These findings suggest that cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of phospholamban (phosphoserine) may play a prominent role during beta-adrenergic stimulation of intact hearts.
Short time-scale LV systolic dynamics: pressure vs. volume clamps and effect of activation
Authors: Shroff S. G. , Campbell K. B. , Kirkpatrick R. D.
Published: December 2017

We recently proposed a new model-based approach to quantifying short time-scale left ventricular (LV) systolic dynamics. In this study we examine the hypothesis that the quantitation of LV dynamics using the proposed approach is independent of external mechanical perturbations and the level of activation. Mechanical perturbation independence was assessed in seven isolated ferret hearts in which controlled changes in pressure (pressure clamp) or volume (volume clamp) were introduced at the time of peak isovolumetric pressure (protocol 1), and responses to these clamps were analyzed over the first 16 ms. The model described both pressure- and volume-clamps responses equally well. Model parameters were not different among various pressure clamps, and parameters estimated from volume clamps could accurately predict responses to pressure clamps [r2 range: 0.993–0.999; normalized root-mean-square error (NRMSE) range: 2.35–5.86%]. To examine activation independence, volume- (4 hearts) and pressure-clamp (4 hearts) responses were obtained and analyzed for baseline and postextrasystolic potentiated beats in a manner similar to protocol 1. The model parameter values estimated from the baseline state accurately predicted responses for the postextrasystolic potentiated state (r2 and NRMSE range for volume-clamp data: 0.989–0.998 and 3.35–6.88%, respectively; r2 and NRMSE range for pressure-clamp data: 0.992–0.996 and 4.26–5.23%, respectively). Thus the proposed approach can dissect the contributions of changes in activation from those due to changes in contractile unit properties on the function of the intact LV.
CGS 8515 and indomethacin attenuate cytokine-induced cardiopulmonary dysfunction in pigs
Authors: Kruse-Elliott K. T. , Olson N. C.
Published: December 2017

We evaluated the effect of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha) on pig cardiopulmonary function by intravenously infusing each cytokine individually or in combination (0.5 microgram/kg from 0 to 0.5 h + 5 ng.kg-1 x min-1 from 0.5 to 6 h for each cytokine). The role of eicosanoids in mediating the TNF-alpha + IL-1 alpha-induced cardiopulmonary dysfunction was also investigated by pretreating cytokine-infused pigs with CGS 8515 (5-lipoxygenase inhibitor) or indomethacin (cyclooxygenase inhibitor). Coinfusion of TNF-alpha with IL-1 alpha caused additive increases (P < 0.05) in total peripheral resistance and plasma concentrations of 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha (PGF1 alpha). The increases in mean pulmonary arterial pressure (Ppa), pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), alveolar-arterial O2 gradient (AaDO2), alveolar dead space-to-tidal volume ratio (VD/VT), and plasma concentrations of thromboxane B2 were either additive or synergistic. CGS 8515 blocked the TNF-alpha + IL-1 alpha-induced increases (P < 0.05) in mean aortic pressure, total peripheral resistance (4-6 h), VD/VT (5-6 h), and, at 6 h, attenuated the increases in Ppa, PVR, and AaDO2. Indomethacin blocked or attenuated the cytokine-induced increases (P < 0.05) in Ppa, PVR, AaDO2, VD/VT, and plasma concentrations of thromboxane B2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha. The 1-to 2-h systemic hypotension, caused by TNF-alpha + IL-1 alpha, was not abrogated by either indomethacin or CGS 8515. The cytokines did not alter plasma concentrations of leukotriene B4 or 5-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid. We conclude that coinfusion of TNF-alpha with IL-1 alpha induces physiological responses that are additive or synergistic and that cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase products (other than leukotriene B4 and 5-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid) importantly mediate cardiopulmonary dysfunction in pigs infused with TNF-alpha + IL-1 alpha.
Arteriolar endothelium-dependent vasodilation occurs during endotoxin shock
Authors: Baker C. H. , Sutton E. T.
Published: December 2017

Endotoxin shock has been reported to alter endothelial structure as well as function of large arteries from in vitro experiments. Cremaster muscle arteriolar dilator reactivity of pentobarbital-anesthetized rats was determined by videomicroscopy at control and 30, 90, 150, and 210 min after intravenous infusion of Escherichia coli endotoxin (6 mg/kg, 1-h period). The dilator response was tested by intra-arterial injections of 90 ng acetylcholine (ACh). At control A1, A2, and A3 arterioles dilated 45, 21, and 34%, respectively. Postendotoxin arterial pressure decreased progressively, the A1 arterioles constricted (P < 0.05), A2 diameters were unchanged and A3 diameters increased. Postendotoxin ACh dilations averaged 28, 23, and 25%. A1 dilation was significantly (P < 0.05) less than at control. Methylene blue (2.5 mg ia) attenuated the ACh response at control, but after endotoxin an intense downstream vasoconstriction resulted in stasis and reduced survival time occurred. Hydroquinone (HQ) partially blocked the responses to ACh postendotoxin. HQ significantly increased the survival time postendotoxin. It is evident postendotoxin that the endothelia of arterioles are functional and able to release nitric oxide (NO) throughout the entire survival period. The microvascular release of NO and the dilation response to ACh were substantially attenuated by methylene blue and HQ. The latter may block the more lethal effects of the inducible NO synthase.
PAF increases capillary pressure but not vascular permeability in isolated blood-perfused canine lungs
Authors: Shibamoto T. , Yamaguchi Y. , Hayashi T. , Saeki Y. , Kawamoto M. , Koyama S.
Published: December 2017

We determined the effects of platelet-activating factor (PAF) on pulmonary vascular resistance, lung weight, and microvascular permeability in isolated canine lungs perfused at constant pressure with autologous blood. PAF caused a dose-dependent increase in total pulmonary vascular resistance (Rt) and pulmonary capillary pressure assessed as double-occlusion pressure. PAF (33 micrograms; n = 7) caused a 10-fold increase in Rt and a decrease in precapillary-to-postcapillary vascular resistance ratio from 0.97 +/- 0.10 to 0.38 +/- 0.03, suggesting predominant pulmonary venoconstriction. Shortly after PAF, lung weight decreased transiently and then increased, reaching a plateau above baseline (112.5 +/- 1.6%) at 30 min. In lungs perfused in the antidromic direction from the pulmonary vein to the artery (n = 5), PAF (33 micrograms) produced marked precapillary vasoconstriction, consistent with pulmonary venoconstriction, and a remarkable and sustained decrease in lung weight below baseline by 30 min. Vascular permeability, measured 30 min after PAF using the capillary filtration coefficient and isogravimetric capillary pressure, did not change significantly from baseline. Thus we conclude that PAF produces lung weight gain by means of an increase in capillary pressure predominantly due to pulmonary venoconstriction without significant changes in vascular permeability in isolated blood-perfused canine lungs.
Effect of carotid sinus stimulation on resistance and critical closing pressure of the canine hindlimb
Authors: Shrier I. , Hussain S. N. , Magder S.
Published: December 2017

Sympathetically mediated changes in blood pressure are thought to occur through changes in arterial resistance (Ra). To test whether the critical closing pressure (Pcrit) could also play a role, we pump-perfused the vascularly isolated canine hindlimb at constant flow. Carotid sinuses were isolated and both vagus nerves cut. Carotid sinus (Pcar), arterial, perfusion (Pper), and venous (Pv) pressures and flow to the hindlimb (Q, electromagnetic flow probe) were measured. By decreasing pump flow to zero over time periods of 1-10 s and measuring the pressure at zero-flow, it was possible to estimate arterial compliance and Pcrit. Ra was calculated as (Pper - Pcrit)/Q. Venous resistance was calculated as (Pel - Pv)/Q, where Pel is the pressure in the compliant region obtained by the double-occlusion technique. Raising Pcar from 115 +/- 7 to 203 +/- 10 mmHg (n = 6) decreased Pcrit from 49.7 +/- 4.3 to 25.9 +/- 2.6 mmHg and Ra from 10.7 +/- 1.2 to 6.8 +/- 0.9 mmHg.min.100 g-1.ml-1 (P < 0.05). Lowering Pcar from 119 +/- 6 to 71 +/- 6 mmHg (n = 6) increased Pcrit from 37.0 +/- 3.3 to 61.0 +/- 8.5 mmHg and Ra from 10.0 +/- 1.6 to 14.0 +/- 2.4 mmHg.min.100 g.ml-1 (P < 0.05). Arterial compliance increased when Pcar was raised (P < 0.05) and decreased when Pcar was decreased (P < 0.1). Venous resistance did not change when Pcar was altered. In conclusion, changes in carotid sinus stimulation alters blood flow to the hindlimb through changes in both Pcrit and Ra.
Disintegration of cytoskeletal structure of actin filaments in energy-depleted endothelial cells
Authors: Kuhne W. , Besselmann M. , Noll T. , Muhs A. , Watanabe H. , Piper H. M.
Published: December 2017

In a previous study [Watanabe, H., W. Kuhne, R. Spahr, P. Schwartz, and H. M. Piper. Am. J. Physiol. 260 (Heart Circ. Physiol. 29): H1344-H1352, 1991] metabolic inhibition (5 mM KCN + 5 mM 2-deoxy-D-glucose, for 2 h) was found to cause disintegration of F-actin filaments, cell retraction, and augmented paracellular macromolecule permeability in monolayer cultures of porcine aortic endothelial cells after a rapid depletion of ATP stores (90% in 5 min). These changes were reversible. In the present study, the nature of this cytoskeletal disintegration was investigated. 1) Disintegration of F-actin filaments within 2-h incubation under metabolic inhibition was accompanied by appearance of F-actin clumps in the cells, but total contents of F-actin remained unaltered. 2) Cytosolic Ca2+ levels rapidly rose in metabolically inhibited cells; after 2 h a 10-fold increase was observed. 3) Presence of the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 (10 microM) mimicked the reversible effect of metabolic inhibition on F-actin filaments and monolayer permeability but not the extensive depletion of ATP stores. 4) Existence of the Ca(2+)-activatable actin-severing protein gelsolin in endothelial cells was demonstrated. The results show that during the reversible phase of endothelial energy depletion disintegration of F-actin filaments is only partial, since it is based on their fragmentation and not depolymerization. Increase in cytosolic Ca2+ levels seems to be the primary cause for the fragmentation, possibly through the activation of gelsolin.
Vasopressin contributes to the cardiovascular response to dynamic exercise
Authors: Stebbins C. L. , Symons J. D.
Published: December 2017

Vasopressin is a powerful vasoconstrictor that is released into the systemic circulation during exercise. We tested the hypothesis that this peptide contributes to the cardiovascular response during treadmill exercise in the pig. Seventeen miniswine were instrumented with epicardial electrocardiogram leads, left atrial and aortic catheters, and a left ventricular pressure transducer for measurement of heart rate (HR), regional blood flow, arterial blood pressure (MAP), and myocardial contractility [first derivative of left ventricular pressure (dP/dt) at 40 mmHg developed pressure] at rest and during exercise. At a work intensity of 80% of each animal's maximal HR reserve, exercise-induced increases in MAP, HR, dP/dt at 40 mmHg developed pressure, and cardiac output were measured. On a separate day, the workload performed by each animal was replicated in the presence of selective vasopressin V1-receptor inhibition using the specific V1 antagonist, [d(CH2)5Tyr(Me)]arginine vasopressin (10-14 micrograms/kg iv). During exercise, MAP was lower (96 +/- 3 vs. 104 +/- 2 mmHg) and cardiac output was higher (13.5 +/- 0.6 vs. 12.6 +/- 1.0 l/min) in the presence of V1-receptor blockade than during unblocked conditions, respectively. Furthermore, we observed an attenuation of exercise-induced decreases in blood flow to the colon. Increases in vascular resistance in the stomach, small intestine, colon, and pancreas also were diminished by V1-receptor inhibition. However, HR and myocardial contractile responses to exercise were not affected. These results suggest that vasopressin contributes to increases in MAP and to the redistribution of cardiac output during dynamic exercise in the miniswine.
Albumin-binding superoxide dismutase with a prolonged half-life reduces reperfusion brain injury
Authors: Takeda Y. , Hashimoto H. , Kosaka F. , Hirakawa M. , Inoue M.
Published: December 2017

To test the possible involvement of superoxide radicals in the pathogenesis of reperfusion injury, we synthesized a superoxide dismutase (SOD) derivative [poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) butyl ester (SM) covalently linked to SOD] that circulates bound to albumin, has a prolonged in vivo half-life, and accumulates in pH-decreased tissues. The protective effects of SM-SOD on regional cerebral blood flow, intracranial pressure, cardiac index, vascular permeability, and neurological outcome were investigated using a model of global brain ischemia in dogs. Intra-arterial injection of SM-SOD (10 mg/kg) just before reperfusion increased reactive hyperemia (SM-SOD, 160 +/- 36 ml.100 g-1.min-1, means +/- SD, n = 6; control, 100 +/- 34 ml.100 g-1.min-1, n = 6, P = 0.015), ameliorated delayed hypoperfusion (7 h after ischemia: SM-SOD, 40 +/- 14 ml.100 g-1.min-1; control 17 +/- 6 ml.100 g-1.min-1, P = 0.003), vascular permeability, and neurological outcome without affecting the cardiac index. These results indicate that superoxide radicals and/or their metabolite(s) might play a critical role in the pathogenesis of reperfusion injury in the brain.
Myocardial adenosine, flow, and metabolism during adenosine antagonism and adrenergic stimulation
Authors: Headrick J. P. , Ely S. W. , Matherne G. P. , Berne R. M.
Published: December 2017

Pages H61–H70: J. P. Headrick, S. W. Ely, G. P. Matherne, and R. M. Berne. “Myocardial adenosine, flow, and metabolism during adenosine antagonism and adrenergic stimulation.” The legends to Figs. 3, 4, and 7 incorrectly state that data were collected from rat hearts. All data in the study were in fact obtained from guinea pig hearts.
Regulation of atrial natriuretic peptide receptors in vascular smooth muscle cells: role of cGMP
Authors: Zhang L. M. , Tao H. , Newman W. H.
Published: December 2017

We tested the hypothesis that intracellular guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) regulates atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) receptors. The effect of chronic exposure to ANP, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), and 8-bromo-cGMP (8-BrcGMP) on ANP receptors and cGMP formation was determined in guinea pig thoracic aorta smooth muscle cells (TASM) and in coronary artery smooth muscle cells (CASM). TASM express both the ANP-activated guanylyl cyclase (B-receptor) and the clearance receptor (C-receptor) and respond to ANP with increased cGMP. CASM exhibit only the ANP C-receptor. In TASM, 24-h treatment with 1 microM atriopeptin (AP) III [rat ANP-(103–126)] caused a sixfold increase in basal cGMP levels, which were unaltered in CASM. In AP III-treated TASM, maximal binding of 125I-labeled AP III (Bmax) was reduced 40% while affinity [dissociation constant (KD)] was unaltered. In CASM, Bmax and KD were not affected. In treated TASM, washed free of AP III, acute dose-response curves of cGMP to AP III were not different from that in untreated cells. In both TASM and CASM, basal cGMP levels were elevated and Bmax was decreased by 6-h treatment with SNP. SNP did not alter the acute response of cGMP to AP III. In both cell types, 8-BrcGMP for 6 h caused reduction in Bmax. These findings support the conclusion that elevated cGMP was necessary for ANP-induced downregulation of receptors. The unaltered responsiveness of cGMP to AP III suggests the B-receptor was not altered and the reduced Bmax was due to decreased C-receptor.
Attenuation of the cardiac effects of cocaine by dizocilpine
Authors: Hageman G. R. , Simor T.
Published: December 2017

Cocaine abuse causes autonomic and cardiovascular effects that may be life threatening. Attenuation of cocaine-induced seizures has been produced by the noncompetitive antagonist of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor channel complex, dizocilpine. The purpose of the present study was, first, to determine effects of dizocilpine on the incidence of pacing-induced ventricular arrhythmias and, second, to evaluate the effects of dizocilpine on cocaine-induced depression of sympathetic efferent activity to the heart. Adult dogs were anesthetized and instrumented for blood pressure and an electrocardiogram. After vagotomy and thoracotomy, electrodes and strain gauges were sutured onto the right atrium and ventricle. A left thoracic sympathetic efferent nerve was isolated and stimulated for analysis of the innervation pattern. Arrhythmias were induced with programmed electrical stimulation of the heart before and during left cardiac sympathetic efferent nerve stimulation. The control incidence of induced arrhythmias was only 2%, which increased to 21% during left sympathetic stimulation. Cocaine (2 mg/kg iv) significantly increased these to 11 and 42%, respectively. Dizocilpine (0.5 mg/kg iv) reduced the incidence of induced ventricular arrhythmias to 2% with cocaine (P < 0.05) and to 19% with cocaine and left sympathetic stimulation (P < 0.01). One or two sympathetic efferent cardiac nerves were stimulated to evaluate innervation patterns. These nerves were severed and prepared for recording multifiber efferent neurograms. Nerve traffic was analyzed by counting positive spikes for 15 s. Control activities were normalized at 100%. Within 6 min, cocaine (2 mg/kg iv) reduced the sympathetic efferent activity to 83 +/- 4% of control (n = 14 nerves).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
ATP-sensitive K+ channels mediate vasodilation produced by lemakalim in rabbit pulmonary artery
Authors: Clapp L. H. , Davey R. , Gurney A. M.
Published: December 2017

Tension recording and the patch-clamp technique were used to determine the mechanism underlying vasodilation produced by lemakalim in the rabbit pulmonary artery. Lemakalim produced relaxation of precontracted muscle strips that was inhibited by glibenclamide and tetrapentylammonium ions but not by 2 mM tetraethylammonium (TEA) ions. In single cells dialyzed with 1 mM ATP, lemakalim (10 microM) hyperpolarized cells by approximately 13 mV and activated a time-independent K+ current, averaging only 6.5 pA at -50 mV. Glibenclamide reversed both of these membrane effects of lemakalim but not the lemakalim-induced block of an outward current seen above -20 mV. ATP depletion hyperpolarized cells and selectively unmasked a background K+ current, which was sensitive to glibenclamide but not to TEA, with properties similar to the current activated by lemakalim during membrane hyperpolarization. Furthermore, when intracellular ATP concentrations were varied, a clear correlation was revealed between ATP levels and the magnitude of the depolarization or hyperpolarization seen with either glibenclamide or lemakalim, respectively. These results provide direct evidence that the background current is carried by ATP-sensitive K+ channels rather than by large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K+ channels and that it underlies the hyperpolarization and relaxation to lemakalim.
Postnatal decrease in muscarinic cholinergic influence on Ca2+ currents of rabbit ventricular cells
Authors: Osaka T. , Joyner R. W. , Kumar R.
Published: December 2017

We have studied developmental changes in the muscarinic cholinergic modulation of L-type Ca2+ current (ICa) in enzymatically isolated adult and newborn (1–4 days old) rabbit ventricular cells using the whole-cell patch-clamp method. Carbachol (10 microM) caused a 2.8-fold increase in the half-maximal concentration (EC50) for isoproterenol to stimulate ICa for adult cells compared with the control with little effect on the maximal ICa density (Imax), whereas the stimulatory effect of isoproterenol on newborn ICa was completely eliminated by 10 microM of carbachol and was decreased by 40% at 0.1 microM carbachol. Carbachol increased the EC50 for forskolin to stimulate ICa 2.9-fold for adult cells and 7.3-fold for newborn cells with little effect on the Imax for either group. 5'-Guanylyl imidodiphosphate [Gpp(NH)p; 100 microM] reduced the stimulatory effect of 0.1 microM isoproterenol on adult ICa (percent increase over predrug level) by a factor of 1.8 compared with the control (400 microM guanosine triphosphate), whereas the isoproterenol effect on newborn ICa was completely eliminated by Gpp(NH)p. The isoproterenol effect on adult ICa persisted after the washout of isoproterenol in the presence of Gpp(NH)p. Gpp(NH)p also reduced the stimulatory effect of 1 microM of forskolin by a factor of 2.0 and 8.2 for adult and newborn cells, respectively, in comparison to the control. Carbachol caused no additional effect on forskolin-stimulated ICa for either adult or newborn ICa in the presence of Gpp(NH)p. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin completely eliminated the inhibitory effect of carbachol on forskolin-stimulated ICa for both groups. In addition, the effect of forskolin on ICa was markedly enhanced by the pertussis toxin pretreatment in newborn cells, whereas the enhancement was relatively small for adult cells. We conclude that the muscarinic cholinergic influence on L-type ICa decreases after birth in rabbit ventricular cells, presumably through a diminishing influence of an inhibitory G protein on regulating adenylyl cyclase during the postnatal period.