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Positive correlation between chymase-like angiotensin II-forming activity in mononuclear cells and serum cholesterol

Kinshiro Murakami1, Yoshinari Uehara, Satomi Abe

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Fukuoka University Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka.

Journal of Cardiology
|November 30, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Chymase activity in mononuclear cells is linked to high blood pressure and high cholesterol, suggesting its role in cardiovascular disease risk factors. This finding highlights potential therapeutic targets for managing atherosclerosis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Biochemistry
  • Immunology

Background:

  • The local renin-angiotensin system plays a crucial role in cardiovascular diseases.
  • Understanding the role of leukocytes in angiotensin II formation is vital for cardiovascular risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between angiotensin II-forming activity in fractionated peripheral leukocytes and atherosclerotic risks.
  • To evaluate the relationship between chymase-like activities in leukocytes and cardiovascular risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol.

Main Methods:

  • Peripheral blood samples were collected from patients with varying blood pressure and ischemic heart disease status.
  • Leukocyte fractions (mononuclear and polymorphonuclear cells) were isolated using density gradient centrifugation.
  • Chymase-like, angiotensin converting enzyme, and cathepsin G-dependent activities were measured using angiotensin I as a substrate.

Main Results:

  • Chymase-like angiotensin II-forming activity in mononuclear cells showed a significant increase in non-smoker patients with high blood pressure.
  • This activity positively correlated with serum total cholesterol levels.
  • No significant association was found with smoking status or age.

Conclusions:

  • Chymase in mononuclear cells is activated by conditions such as high blood pressure and hypercholesterolemia.
  • These findings suggest a potential role for mononuclear cell chymase in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
Abstract

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