Renin-angiotensin system inhibitor attenuates oxidative stress induced human coronary artery endothelial cell

Xuekun Shi1, Yuhua Guan2, Shaoyan Jiang1

  • 1Department of Cardiovasology, the Affiliated Cardiovascular Hospital of Qindao University, Qindao, Shaodong, China.

Abstract

Insights

The renin-angiotensin system inhibitor captopril protects against oxidative stress and improves endothelial cell survival by modulating the AKT/mTOR pathway. This suggests captopril as a potential therapeutic for cardiovascular diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Endothelial Cell Biology
  • Molecular Medicine

Background:

  • The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) influences blood pressure, inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance.
  • While RAS can decrease oxidative stress, its role in oxidative stress-induced endothelial dysfunction and H2O2-mediated AKT activation is unclear.
  • Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) stimulation increases oxidative stress and activates the AKT/mTOR pathway.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the protective effects of the RAS inhibitor captopril against H2O2-induced endothelial cell dysfunction.
  • To elucidate the role of the AKT/mTOR pathway in captopril's protective mechanisms.
  • To evaluate captopril's impact on cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion.

Main Methods:

  • Human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) were treated with H2O2, captopril, an AKT inhibitor (MK-2206), and an AKT activator (SC79).
  • Western blot was used to measure p53, ICAM-1, p-eNOS, p-Akt, and mTOR.
  • Cell viability, ROS levels, proliferation, migration, and invasion were assessed using MTT assay, flow cytometry, BrdU labeling, wound healing, and Transwell assays, respectively.

Main Results:

  • Captopril reversed H2O2-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in HCAECs.
  • Combined treatment with captopril and MK-2206 reduced H2O2-induced p53 and ICAM-1 expression (p < 0.05).
  • Captopril and MK-2206 co-treatment significantly enhanced HCAEC proliferation, migration, and invasion (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

  • Captopril demonstrates a protective effect against H2O2-induced endothelial cell dysfunction via the AKT/mTOR pathway.
  • Captopril enhances endothelial cell survival, proliferation, migration, and invasion.
  • These findings offer insights into captopril's therapeutic potential for cardiovascular diseases.

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