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Decreased vascular sensitivity to histamine during aging.
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|January 1, 1984
Summary
Vascular sensitivity to histamine in the thoracic aorta decreases with age in guinea pigs. This age-related change is not mediated by prostaglandins, indicating they do not locally modulate histamine responses in vascular tissue.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Vascular Biology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Vascular sensitivity to vasoactive agents can change with age.
- Histamine is a key mediator of vascular tone.
- The role of prostaglandins in age-related vascular changes is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of aging on the sensitivity and responsiveness of guinea pig thoracic aorta to histamine.
- To determine if prostaglandins modulate the age-related changes in vascular sensitivity to histamine.
Main Methods:
- Thoracic aorta preparations from young and old guinea pigs were used.
- Vascular sensitivity and responsiveness to histamine were measured.
- The effect of indomethacin, a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor, was assessed on basal tone, sensitivity, and responsiveness.
Main Results:
- Vascular sensitivity to histamine significantly decreased in aged guinea pig thoracic aorta compared to young.
- Vascular responsiveness to histamine remained unchanged with age.
- Indomethacin did not alter basal tone, histamine sensitivity, or responsiveness in either age group.
Conclusions:
- Age-related decreases in thoracic aorta sensitivity to histamine are independent of prostaglandins.
- Prostaglandins do not appear to play a local role in modulating vascular tissue responses to histamine in this model.