New method of investigating functional roles of pressure-sensitive mechanoreceptor in human endothelial cells

The role of pressure-sensitive mechanoreceptors (PSMRs) in histamine-stimulated nitric oxide release from cultured human endothelial cells was investigated, using our new method (helium pack method). PSMRs were stimulated by various levels of pressure applied in addition to atmospheric pressure (40, 80, 120, and 160 mm Hg). Histamine-stimulated nitric oxide release was inhibited in a pressure-dependent manner. Our results suggest that PSMRs modulate nitric oxide release from endothelial cells.