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Angiotensin II and retinal pericytes migration
J A Nadal1, G M Scicli, L A Carbini
1Eye Care Services Research, Henry Ford Health Systems, Detroit, Michigan 48202, USA.
Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Angiotensin II (Ang II) stimulates retina pericyte migration via AT(1) receptors, acting as a chemotactic factor. This finding may explain Ang II
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Neovascularization in the retina is regulated by Angiotensin II (Ang II).
- Retinal pericyte migration is crucial for regulating angiogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hypothesis that Ang II stimulates retina pericyte migration.
- To elucidate the receptor pathways involved in Ang II-mediated pericyte migration.
Main Methods:
- Modified Boyden chambers and collagen IV-coated membranes were used to assess pericyte migration.
- Checkerboard assays were employed to differentiate between chemotaxis and chemokinesis.
- AT(1) and AT(2) receptor antagonists (Losartan and PD123319) were utilized to investigate receptor involvement.
Main Results:
- Angiotensin II significantly stimulated bovine retinal pericyte migration by 54.8 +/- 9.7% (p < 0.001).
- The migratory effect of Ang II was blocked by the AT(1) receptor antagonist Losartan.
- Ang II induced chemotaxis, a directed migration, rather than chemokinesis, a nondirected migration.
Conclusions:
- Angiotensin II, acting through its AT(1) receptor, functions as a chemotactic factor for retinal microvascular pericytes.
- This mechanism may contribute to Ang II-driven regulation of retinal neovascularization.
- The findings highlight a novel role for the renin-angiotensin system in retinal vascular dynamics.