Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Evaluation of Vascular Control Mechanisms Utilizing Video Microscopy of Isolated Resistance Arteries of Rats
Published on: December 5, 2017
The polymorphonuclear leukocyte contributes to the development of hypertension in the Sabra rat
Rafi Mazor1, Batya Kristal, Meital Cohen-Mazor
1Eliachar Research Laboratory, Western Galilee Hospital, Naharyia, Israel. mrafi@tx.technion.ac.il
Background:
We previously showed that priming of the polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL), inflammation and oxidative stress antecede the development of hypertension in the Sabra rat model of hypertension. The actual role of PMNLs and PMNL-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation in the development of hypertension in this model has remained, however, unresolved.
Objective:
The aim of our study was to test the hypothesis that PMNLs and that the PMNL-associated NADPH oxidase contribute to the development of hypertension in the Sabra rat model.
Methods:
To determine the contribution of the PMNL to the development of hypertension, we depleted Sabra hypertension-prone (SBH/y) animals from PMNLs with an anti-PMNL antibody, salt-loaded them and monitored their blood pressure over a period of 30 days. To determine the contribution of the NADPH oxidase on the development of hypertension, we inhibited the activity of this enzyme with phenylarsine oxide or apocynin in SBH/y rats while salt-loading the animals and followed the course of their blood pressure over 60 days.
Results:
PMNL depletion attenuated significantly the development of hypertension in SBH/y rats. Inhibition of NADPH oxidase with phenylarsine oxide and apocynin markedly inhibited the development of hypertension in SBH/y rats, as well as decreased the rate of superoxide release, the level of PMNL CD11b and the PMNL count.
Conclusion:
These data are consistent with a significant contribution of PMNLs to the development of hypertension, and suggest that the mechanism may be related, at least in part, to PMNL-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation.
Related Concept Videos
Hypertension II: Pathophysiology
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure
Hormonal Regulation
Neural Regulation of Blood Pressure
Baroreceptor Reflex
Baroreceptors, located in the carotid sinuses and aortic arch, detect changes in blood pressure. When blood pressure rises, these stretch-sensitive receptors...
Antihypertensive Drugs: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
Antihypertensive Drugs: Action of β1 Blockers
