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Effect of methamphetamine exposure on the plasma levels of endothelial-derived microparticles

Azadeh Nazari1, Maryam Zahmatkesh2, Esmaeil Mortaz3

  • 1Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Drug and Alcohol Dependence
|April 3, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Methamphetamine (Meth) exposure increases inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to endothelial injury. Measuring endothelial-derived microparticles (EMPs) may help monitor endothelial dysfunction in substance use disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Cardiovascular Disease
  • Biomarkers

Background:

  • Methamphetamine (Meth) is a neurotoxin linked to cardiovascular disease, the second leading cause of death in individuals with Meth-use disorder.
  • Meth-induced inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to endothelial dysfunction.
  • Microparticles (MPs), particularly endothelial-derived microparticles (EMPs), are released during pathological conditions and may serve as biomarkers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of Methamphetamine on plasma levels of endothelial-derived microparticles (EMPs).
  • To assess Methamphetamine's effects on inflammatory and oxidative stress markers.
  • To evaluate changes in locomotor activity in a rat model.

Main Methods:

  • Rats received Methamphetamine (4 mg/kg i.p.) for 1, 7, or 14 days.
  • Plasma EMP levels were quantified using flow cytometry with specific cell surface markers (AnnexinV, CD144, CD31, CD41a).
  • Biochemical indices (C-reactive protein, malondialdehyde) and locomotor activity were measured.

Main Results:

  • Methamphetamine significantly increased locomotor activity across all treatment durations.
  • Elevated levels of inflammatory (C-reactive protein) and oxidative stress (malondialdehyde) markers were observed.
  • Plasma EMP levels were significantly higher in Methamphetamine-exposed rats, indicating endothelial injury.

Conclusions:

  • Methamphetamine exposure activates inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways, promoting EMP release.
  • Elevated EMP levels suggest significant endothelial dysfunction.
  • Quantifying EMPs could serve as a potential diagnostic tool for monitoring endothelial damage in substance-use disorders.
Keywords:
Endothelial-derived microparticleExtracellular vesiclesMethamphetamineMicroparticleOxidative stressSubstance use disorder

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