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Vasoconstrictor responses to polymorphonuclear leucocytes from atherosclerotic rabbits
C G Sobey1, J L Hart, O L Woodman
1Department of Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology & Physiology
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMN) from atherosclerotic rabbits release more vasoconstrictors than control PMN. This enhanced release contributes to vascular contraction in atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Immunology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by plaque buildup in arteries.
- Polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMN) play a role in inflammatory processes.
- The specific contribution of PMN to vascular dysfunction in atherosclerosis requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the vascular contractile effects of PMN from control and atherosclerotic rabbits.
- To determine if PMN from atherosclerotic rabbits exhibit altered vasoactive properties.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of PMN from control and cholesterol-fed atherosclerotic rabbits.
- Incubation of rabbit aortic rings with PMN supernatants.
- Measurement of vascular contraction with and without endothelium.
Main Results:
- PMN supernatant from atherosclerotic rabbits induced significantly greater aortic ring contraction compared to control PMN.
- Endothelium removal partially inhibited the contractile response to atherosclerotic PMN supernatant.
- Atherosclerotic PMN supernatant caused aortic contraction even at resting tension.
Conclusions:
- PMN from atherosclerotic rabbits release enhanced levels of stable vasoconstrictor substances.
- These PMN-derived vasoconstrictors contribute to vascular hyperreactivity in atherosclerosis.
- Targeting PMN-mediated vasoconstriction may offer a therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis.