Chronic aerobic exercise training attenuates aortic stiffening and endothelial dysfunction through preserving aortic mitochondrial function in aged rats.

PubMed

Gu, Qi; Wang, Bing; Zhang, Xiao-Feng; Ma, Yan-Ping; Liu, Jian-Dong; Wang, Xiao-Ze

2014-08-01

Aging leads to large vessel arterial stiffening and endothelial dysfunction, which are important determinants of cardiovascular risk. The aim of present work was to assess the effects of chronic aerobic exercise training on aortic stiffening and endothelial dysfunction in aged rats and investigate the underlying mechanism about mitochondrial function. Chronic aerobic exercise training attenuated aortic stiffening with age marked by reduced collagen concentration, increased elastin concentration and reduced pulse wave velocity (PWV), and prevented aging-related endothelial dysfunction marked by improved endothelium-mediated vascular relaxation of aortas in response to acetylcholine. Chronic aerobic exercise training abated oxidative stress and nitrosative stress in aortas of aged rats. More importantly, we found that chronic aerobic exercise training in old rats preserved aortic mitochondrial function marked by reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and mitochondrial swelling, increased ATP formation and mitochondrial DNA content, and restored activities of complexes I and III and electron-coupling capacity between complexes I and III and between complexes II and III. In addition, it was found that chronic aerobic exercise training in old rats enhanced protein expression of uncoupling protein 2 (UCP-2), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ co-activator 1α (PGC-1α), manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH-2), prohibitin (PHB) and AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation in aortas. In conclusion, chronic aerobic exercise training preserved mitochondrial function in aortas, which, at least in part, explained the aorta-protecting effects of exercise training in aging. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Beneficial Effects of Galectin-3 Blockade in Vascular and Aortic Valve Alterations in an Experimental Pressure Overload Model

PubMed Central

Ibarrola, Jaime; Martínez-Martínez, Ernesto; Sádaba, J. Rafael; Arrieta, Vanessa; García-Peña, Amaia; Álvarez, Virginia; Fernández-Celis, Amaya; Gainza, Alicia; Rossignol, Patrick; Cachofeiro Ramos, Victoria; López-Andrés, Natalia

2017-01-01

Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is involved in cardiovascular fibrosis and aortic valve (AV) calcification. We hypothesized that Gal-3 pharmacological inhibition with modified citrus pectin (MCP) could reduce aortic and AV remodeling in normotensive rats with pressure overload (PO). Six weeks after aortic constriction, vascular Gal-3 expression was up-regulated in male Wistar rats. Gal-3 overexpression was accompanied by an increase in the aortic media layer thickness, enhanced total collagen, and augmented expression of fibrotic mediators. Further, vascular inflammatory markers as well as inflammatory cells content were greater in aorta from PO rats. MCP treatment (100 mg/kg/day) prevented the increase in Gal-3, media thickness, fibrosis, and inflammation in the aorta of PO rats. Gal-3 levels were higher in AVs from PO rats. This paralleled enhanced AV fibrosis, inflammation, as well as greater expression of calcification markers. MCP treatment prevented the increase in Gal-3 as well as fibrosis, inflammation, and calcification in AVs. Overall, Gal-3 is overexpressed in aorta and AVs from PO rats. Gal-3 pharmacological inhibition blocks aortic and AV remodeling in experimental PO. Gal-3 could be a new therapeutic approach to delay the progression and the development of aortic remodeling and AV calcification in PO. PMID:28758988

Red spinach (Amaranthus tricolor L.) ethanolic extract as prevention against atherosclerosis based on the level of Low-Density Lipoprotein and histopathological feature of aorta in male Sprague-Dawley rats

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pradana, Dimas Adhi; Pondawinata, Marizki; Widyarini, Sitarina

2017-03-01

This study aimed to determine the potential activity of standardized ethanolic extract of red spinach as prevention against atherosclerosis based on the level of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and histopathological feature of aorta in male Sprague-Dawley rats induced by high-fat, high-cholesterol diet. A total of 42 animals was divided into 6 groups: normal control group, negative control group, positive control group (0.9 mg/kgBW of simvastatin), first intervention group (200 mg/kgBW of red spinach extract), second intervention group (400 mg/kgBW of red spinach extract), and third intervention group (800 mg/kgBW of red spinach extract). From the first day up to the 66th day, all the groups, except the normal control group and negative control group, were administered simvastatin (positive control) and extract of amaranth (intervention). Then, from the eighth day until Day 66, induction of high-fat and high-cholesterol diet was given in two hours after the simvastatin and red spinach extract administration. The determination of LDL parameters was conducted on Day 0, Day 35, and Day 67. On the 67th day, the animals were dissected to examine the aortic histopathological parameters. The results showed that the ethanolic extract of red spinach with a dose of 200 mg/kgBW, 400 mg/kgBW, and 800 mg/kgBW statistically demonstrated a significant difference (p<0.05). The histopathological feature of the aorta in the treatment indicated the absence of fat in the blood vessel walls or even of foam cells supporting thereby the result of LDL level. This means there was a significant effect of ethanolic extract of red spinach on the prevention against atherosclerosis based on the level of Low-Density Lipoprotein and the histopathological feature of aorta in male Sprague-Dawley rats.

Effects of catechins and caffeine on the development of atherosclerosis in mice.

PubMed

Liu, Litong; Nagai, Izumi; Gao, Ying; Matsushima, Yoshibumi; Kawai, Yoshichika; Sayama, Kazutoshi

2017-10-01

Atherosclerosis is one of the diseases related to metabolic syndrome which is caused by obesity. Previous reports have shown that green tea and its components have anti-obesity effect. We examined whether catechins and caffeine can prevent the development of atherosclerosis by oral administration, singly or in combination to the atherosclerosis model mice. Results demonstrated that the number of atherosclerotic regions in the aorta was significantly reduced by the combined treatment, and the atherosclerotic area was also improved. Serum HDL-C increased by caffeine single treatment, but no effect on the TG and TC by any treatments. Moreover, ECG illuviated to atheromatous lesions in aorta and the illuviation was enhanced by caffeine. The mRNA expression levels of LOX-1 and TNF-α showed a tendency to suppress by the combined treatment. These results indicated that the combined administration of catechins and caffeine has the inhibitory effect on the development of atherosclerosis in mice.

Injuries to the Aorta, Aortic Annulus, and Left Ventricle During Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Management and Outcomes.

PubMed

Langer, Nathaniel B; Hamid, Nadira B; Nazif, Tamim M; Khalique, Omar K; Vahl, Torsten P; White, Jonathon; Terre, Juan; Hastings, Ramin; Leung, Diana; Hahn, Rebecca T; Leon, Martin; Kodali, Susheel; George, Isaac

2017-01-01

The experience with transcatheter aortic valve replacement is increasing worldwide; however, the incidence of potentially catastrophic cardiac or aortic complications has not decreased. In most cases, significant injuries to the aorta, aortic valve annulus, and left ventricle require open surgical repair. However, the transcatheter aortic valve replacement patient presents a unique challenge as many patients are at high or prohibitive surgical risk and, therefore, an open surgical procedure may not be feasible or appropriate. Consequently, prevention of these potentially catastrophic injuries is vital, and practitioners need to understand when open surgical repair is required and when alternative management strategies can be used. The goal of this article is to provide an overview of current management and prevention strategies for major complications involving the aorta, aortic valve annulus, and left ventricle. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

Monoamine oxidases are mediators of endothelial dysfunction in the mouse aorta.

PubMed

Sturza, Adrian; Leisegang, Matthias S; Babelova, Andrea; Schröder, Katrin; Benkhoff, Sebastian; Loot, Annemarieke E; Fleming, Ingrid; Schulz, Rainer; Muntean, Danina M; Brandes, Ralf P

2013-07-01

Monoamine oxidases (MAOs) generate H(2)O(2) as a by-product of their catalytic cycle. Whether MAOs are mediators of endothelial dysfunction is unknown and was determined here in the angiotensin II and lipopolysaccharide-models of vascular dysfunction in mice. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that mouse aortas contain enzymes involved in catecholamine generation and MAO-A and MAO-B mRNA. MAO-A and -B proteins could be detected by Western blot not only in mouse aortas but also in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Ex vivo incubation of mouse aorta with recombinant MAO-A increased H(2)O(2) formation and induced endothelial dysfunction that was attenuated by polyethylene glycol-catalase and MAO inhibitors. In vivo lipopolysaccharide (8 mg/kg IP overnight) or angiotensin II (1 mg/kg per day, 2 weeks, minipump) treatment induced vascular MAO-A and -B expressions and resulted in attenuated endothelium-dependent relaxation of the aorta in response to acetylcholine. MAO inhibitors reduced the lipopolysaccharide- and angiotensin II-induced aortic reactive oxygen species formation by 50% (ferrous oxidation xylenol orange assay) and partially normalized endothelium-dependent relaxation. MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitors had an additive effect; combined application completely restored endothelium-dependent relaxation. To determine how MAO-dependent H(2)O(2) formation induces endothelial dysfunction, cyclic GMP was measured. Histamine stimulation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells to activate endothelial NO synthase resulted in an increase in cyclic GMP, which was almost abrogated by MAO-A exposure. MAO inhibition prevented this effect, suggesting that MAO-induced H(2)O(2) formation is sufficient to attenuate endothelial NO release. Thus, MAO-A and MAO-B are both expressed in the mouse aorta, induced by in vivo lipopolysaccharide and angiotensin II treatment and contribute via the generation of H(2)O(2) to endothelial dysfunction in vascular disease models.

Differences in the Thoracic Aorta by Region and Sex in a Murine Model of Marfan Syndrome.

PubMed

Jiménez-Altayó, Francesc; Siegert, Anna-Maria; Bonorino, Fabio; Meirelles, Thayna; Barberà, Laura; Dantas, Ana P; Vila, Elisabet; Egea, Gustavo

2017-01-01

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a hereditary disorder of the connective tissue that causes life-threatening aortic aneurysm, which initiates at the aortic root and can progress into the ascending portion. However, analysis of ascending aorta reactivity in animal models of MFS has remained elusive. Epidemiologic evidence suggests that although MFS is equally prevalent in men and women, men are at a higher risk of aortic complications than non-pregnant women. Nevertheless, there is no experimental evidence to support this hypothesis. The aim of this study was to explore whether there are regional and sex differences in the thoracic aorta function of mice heterozygous for the fibrillin 1 ( Fbn1 ) allele encoding a missense mutation ( Fbn1 C1039G/+ ), the most common class of mutation in MFS. Ascending and descending thoracic aorta reactivity was evaluated by wire myography. Ascending aorta mRNA and protein levels, and elastic fiber integrity were assessed by qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and Verhoeff-Van Gieson histological staining, respectively. MFS differently altered reactivity in the ascending and descending thoracic aorta by either increasing or decreasing phenylephrine contractions, respectively. When mice were separated by sex, contractions to phenylephrine increased progressively from 3 to 6 months of age in MFS ascending aortas of males, whereas contractions in females were unchanged. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was unaltered in the MFS ascending aorta of either sex; an effect related to augmented endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization-type dilations. In MFS males, the non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor indomethacin prevented the MFS-induced enhancement of phenylephrine contractions linked to increased COX-2 expression. In MFS mice of both sexes, the non-selective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME revealed negative feedback of nitric oxide on phenylephrine contractions, which was associated with upregulation of eNOS in females. Finally, MFS ascending aortas showed a greater number of elastic fiber breaks than the wild-types, and males exhibited more breaks than females. These results show regional and sex differences in Fbn1 C1039G/+ mice thoracic aorta contractility and aortic media injuries. The presence of more pronounced aortic alterations in male mice provides experimental evidence to support that male MFS patients are at increased risk of suffering aortic complications.

Differences in the Thoracic Aorta by Region and Sex in a Murine Model of Marfan Syndrome

PubMed Central

Jiménez-Altayó, Francesc; Siegert, Anna-Maria; Bonorino, Fabio; Meirelles, Thayna; Barberà, Laura; Dantas, Ana P.; Vila, Elisabet; Egea, Gustavo

2017-01-01

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a hereditary disorder of the connective tissue that causes life-threatening aortic aneurysm, which initiates at the aortic root and can progress into the ascending portion. However, analysis of ascending aorta reactivity in animal models of MFS has remained elusive. Epidemiologic evidence suggests that although MFS is equally prevalent in men and women, men are at a higher risk of aortic complications than non-pregnant women. Nevertheless, there is no experimental evidence to support this hypothesis. The aim of this study was to explore whether there are regional and sex differences in the thoracic aorta function of mice heterozygous for the fibrillin 1 (Fbn1) allele encoding a missense mutation (Fbn1C1039G/+), the most common class of mutation in MFS. Ascending and descending thoracic aorta reactivity was evaluated by wire myography. Ascending aorta mRNA and protein levels, and elastic fiber integrity were assessed by qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and Verhoeff-Van Gieson histological staining, respectively. MFS differently altered reactivity in the ascending and descending thoracic aorta by either increasing or decreasing phenylephrine contractions, respectively. When mice were separated by sex, contractions to phenylephrine increased progressively from 3 to 6 months of age in MFS ascending aortas of males, whereas contractions in females were unchanged. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was unaltered in the MFS ascending aorta of either sex; an effect related to augmented endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization-type dilations. In MFS males, the non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor indomethacin prevented the MFS-induced enhancement of phenylephrine contractions linked to increased COX-2 expression. In MFS mice of both sexes, the non-selective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME revealed negative feedback of nitric oxide on phenylephrine contractions, which was associated with upregulation of eNOS in females. Finally, MFS ascending aortas showed a greater number of elastic fiber breaks than the wild-types, and males exhibited more breaks than females. These results show regional and sex differences in Fbn1C1039G/+ mice thoracic aorta contractility and aortic media injuries. The presence of more pronounced aortic alterations in male mice provides experimental evidence to support that male MFS patients are at increased risk of suffering aortic complications. PMID:29187826

Interactions between mural cells and endothelial cells stabilize the developing zebrafish dorsal aorta

PubMed Central

Stratman, Amber N.; Pezoa, Sofia A.; Farrelly, Olivia M.; Castranova, Daniel; Dye, Louis E.; Butler, Matthew G.; Sidik, Harwin; Talbot, William S.

2017-01-01

Mural cells (vascular smooth muscle cells and pericytes) play an essential role in the development of the vasculature, promoting vascular quiescence and long-term vessel stabilization through their interactions with endothelial cells. However, the mechanistic details of how mural cells stabilize vessels are not fully understood. We have examined the emergence and functional role of mural cells investing the dorsal aorta during early development using the zebrafish. Consistent with previous literature, our data suggest that cells ensheathing the dorsal aorta emerge from a sub-population of cells in the adjacent sclerotome. Inhibition of mural cell recruitment to the dorsal aorta through disruption of pdgfr signaling leads to a reduced vascular basement membrane, which in turn results in enhanced dorsal aorta vessel elasticity and failure to restrict aortic diameter. Our results provide direct in vivo evidence for a functional role for mural cells in patterning and stabilization of the early vasculature through production and maintenance of the vascular basement membrane to prevent abnormal aortic expansion and elasticity. PMID:27913637

IRAP inhibition using HFI419 prevents moderate to severe acetylcholine mediated vasoconstriction in a rabbit model.

PubMed

El-Hawli, Aisha; Qaradakhi, Tawar; Hayes, Alan; Rybalka, Emma; Smith, Renee; Caprnda, Martin; Opatrilova, Radka; Gazdikova, Katarina; Benckova, Maria; Kruzliak, Peter; Zulli, Anthony

2017-02-01

Coronary artery vasospasm (constriction) caused by reduced nitric oxide bioavailability leads to myocardial infarction. Reduced endothelial release of nitric oxide by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, leads to paradoxical vasoconstriction as it binds to smooth muscle cell M3 receptors. Thus, inhibition of coronary artery vasospasm will improve clinical outcomes. Inhibition of insulin regulated aminopeptidase has been shown to improve vessel function, thus we tested the hypothesis that HFI419, an inhibitor of insulin regulated aminopeptidase, could reduce blood vessel constriction to acetylcholine. The abdominal aorta was excised from New Zealand white rabbits (n=15) and incubated with 3mM Hcy to induce vascular dysfunction in vitro for 1h. HFI419 was added 5min prior to assessment of vascular function by cumulative doses of acetylcholine. In some rings, vasoconstriction to acetylcholine was observed in aortic rings after pre-incubation with 3mM homocysteine. Incubation with HFI419 inhibited the vasoconstrictive response to acetylcholine, thus improving, but not normalizing, vascular function (11.5±8.9% relaxation vs 79.2±37% constriction, p<0.05). Similarly, in another group with mild vasoconstriction, HFI419 inhibited this effect (34.9±4.6% relaxation vs 11.1±5.2%, constriction, p<0.05). HFI419 had no effect on control aorta or aorta with mild aortic dysfunction. The present study shows that HFI419 prevents acetylcholine mediated vasoconstriction in dysfunctional blood vessels. HFI419 had no effect on normal vasodilation. Our results indicate a therapeutic potential of HFI419 in reducing coronary artery vasospasm. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Loganic acid and anthocyanins from cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) fruits modulate diet-induced atherosclerosis and redox status in rabbits.

PubMed

Sozański, Tomasz; Kucharska, Alicja Z; Dzimira, Stanisław; Magdalan, Jan; Szumny, Dorota; Matuszewska, Agnieszka; Nowak, Beata; Piórecki, Narcyz; Szeląg, Adam; Trocha, Małgorzata

2018-04-25

Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) is a plant growing in southeast Europe, in the past used in folk medicine. There are many previous publications showing the preventive effects of (poly)phenolic compounds, especially anthocyanins, on cardiovascular diseases, but there is a lack of studies comparing the effects of (poly)phenolics and other constituents of fruits. We have attempted to determine if iridoids and anthocyanins from cornelian cherry fruits may affect the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the aorta as well as lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in the livers of cholesterol-fed rabbits. Fractions of iridoids and anthocyanins were analyzed using the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) methods. Loganic acid (20 mg/kg b.w.) and a mixture of anthocyanins (10 mg/kg b.w.) were administered orally for 60 days to rabbits fed with 1% cholesterol. Histopathological samples of the aortas and the livers were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde - MDA) and redox status (glutathione - GSH, glutathione peroxidase - Gpx and superoxide dismutase - SOD) were analyzed using spectrophotometrical methods. Both loganic acid (an iridoid) and a mixture of anthocyanins diminished the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the aorta. Both substances also diminished lipid peroxidation, measured as a decrease of MDA, and attenuated oxidative stress, measured as an increase of GSH in the livers depleted by cholesterol feeding. Unexpectedly, cholesterol feeding decreased the Gpx activity in the liver, which was reversed by both investigated substances. We have shown that both iridoids and anthocyanins help prevent fed-induced atherosclerosis, and the consumption of fruits rich in these substances may elicit beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system.

Attenuation of the anti-contractile effect of cooling in the rat aorta by perivascular adipose tissue.

PubMed

Rafique, Y; AlBader, M; Oriowo, M

2017-09-01

In addition to providing mechanical support for blood vessels, the perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) secretes a number of vasoactive substances and exerts an anticontractile effect. The main objective of this study was to find out whether the anticontractile effect of cooling in the rat aorta is affected by PVAT. Our hypothesis was that PVAT would enhance the anticontractile effect of cooling in the rat aorta. Aorta segments, with or without PVAT, were used in this investigation. Cumulative concentration-response curves were established for phenylephrine at 37°C or 24°C. Phenylephrine (10 -9 M - 10 -5 M) induced concentration-dependent contractions of aorta segments with or without PVAT at 37°C. The maximum response, but not pD 2 value, was reduced in aorta segments with PVAT. Cooling the tissues to 24 °C resulted in a significant reduction in the maximum response in aorta segments without PVAT with no change in pD 2 values. However, the anticontractile effect of cooling was attenuated in the presence of PVAT with no significant (p > 0.05) change in either the maximum response or pD 2 value. L-NAME potentiated PE-induced contractions and this was greater in aorta segments without PVAT at both temperatures. The expression of eNOS protein and basal tissue level of nitric oxide (NO) were greater in aorta segments with PVAT at both temperatures. However, PE significantly increased tissue levels of NO only in aorta segments without PVAT. We concluded that PVAT-induced loss of anticontractile effect of cooling against PE-induced contractions could be due to impaired generation of NO in aorta segments with PVAT. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Feasibility of low contrast media volume in CT angiography of the aorta.

PubMed

Seehofnerová, Anna; Kok, Madeleine; Mihl, Casper; Douwes, Dave; Sailer, Anni; Nijssen, Estelle; de Haan, Michiel J W; Wildberger, Joachim E; Das, Marco

2015-01-01

Using smaller volumes of contrast media (CM) in CT angiography (CTA) is desirable in terms of cost reduction and prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). The purpose was to evaluate the feasibility of low CM volume in CTA of the aorta. 77 patients referred for CTA of the aorta were scanned using a standard MDCT protocol at 100 kV. A bolus of 50 ml CM (Iopromide 300 mg Iodine/ml) at a flow rate of 6 ml/s was applied (Iodine delivery rate IDR = 1.8 g/s; Iodine load 15 g) followed by a saline bolus of 40 ml at the same flow rate. Scan delay was determined by the test bolus method. Subjective image quality was assessed and contrast enhancement was measured at 10 anatomical levels of the aorta. Diagnostic quality images were obtained for all patients, reaching a mean overall contrast enhancement of 324 ± 28 HU. Mean attenuation was 350 ± 60 HU at the thoracic aorta and 315 ± 83 HU at the abdominal aorta. A straightforward low volume CM protocol proved to be technically feasible and led to CTA examinations reaching diagnostic image quality of the aorta at 100 kV. Based on these findings, the use of a relatively small CM bolus can be incorporated into routine clinical imaging.

The effects of tapering and artery wall stiffness on treatments for Coarctation of the Aorta.

PubMed

Pathirana, Dilan; Johnston, Barbara; Johnston, Peter

2017-11-01

Coarctation of the Aorta is a congenital narrowing of the aorta. Two commonly used treatments are resection and end-to-end anastomosis, and stent placements. We simulate blood flow through one-dimensional models of aortas. Different artery stiffnesses, due to treatments, are included in our model, and used to compare blood flow properties in the treated aortas. We expand our previously published model to include the natural tapering of aortas. We look at change in aorta wall radius, blood pressure and blood flow velocity, and find that, of the two treatments, the resection and end-to-end anastomosis treatment more closely matches healthy aortas.

Effect of age on kinetics of nitric oxide release in rat aorta and pulmonary artery.

PubMed Central

Tschudi, M R; Barton, M; Bersinger, N A; Moreau, P; Cosentino, F; Noll, G; Malinski, T; Lüscher, T F

1996-01-01

Aging is an important determinant of vascular disease. Endothelium-derived nitric oxide (NO) is protective as a vasodilator and inhibitor of platelet function. This study was designed to directly measure effects of prolonged aging on endotheliai NO release in isolated blood vessels and to delineate differences between the systemic and pulmonary circulation. Aortas and pulmonary arteries from 5-6-mo-old (young), 18-19-mo-old (middle-aged), and 32-33-mo-old (old) normotensive female rats were used. Blood pressure and plasma estradiol-17beta (E2) remained unchanged. In isolated blood vessels, NO release was induced by the receptor-independent agonist calcium ionophore A23187 (10 micromol/liter) and measured in situ on the endothelial surface of vessels using a porphyrinic microsensor. In vessels suspended in organ chambers isometric tension was recorded. In the aorta, the initial rate of NO release and peak NO concentration were reduced in middle-aged and old rats (P < 0.0006 vs. young rats, n = 6). Furthermore, endothelium-dependent relaxations to calcium ionophore and acetylcholine (both 10(-10) - 10(-5) mol/liter) were also reduced in aortas from old as compared with young rats (n = 6, P < 0.05). The initial rate of NO release and peak NO concentration significantly correlated with maximal relaxation to calcium ionophore A23187 (correlation coefficients r - 0.916, P < 0.0018 and r = 0.961, P < 0.0001, respectively, n = 7). In pulmonary arteries, however, the initial rate of NO release as well as peak NO concentration did not decrease with age (n = 6 for each age group, NS). In both blood vessels, the NO release was unaffected by superoxide dismutase in all age groups (n = 6, NS). Thus, aging specifically reduces initial rate and peak concentrations of endothelial NO release from aorta but not pulmonary artery indicating reduced NO production. As arterial pressure did not change with aging, the chronic exposure of the aorta to higher pressure and/or pulsatility than in the pulmonary artery may be the cause. This appears important as NO plays a protective role by preventing vasoconstriction, thrombosis and atherosclerosis. PMID:8770860

Beta2-adrenergic activity modulates vascular tone regulation in lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase knockout mice.

PubMed

Manzini, S; Pinna, C; Busnelli, M; Cinquanta, P; Rigamonti, E; Ganzetti, G S; Dellera, F; Sala, A; Calabresi, L; Franceschini, G; Parolini, C; Chiesa, G

2015-11-01

Lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) deficiency is associated with hypoalphalipoproteinemia, generally a predisposing factor for premature coronary heart disease. The evidence of accelerated atherosclerosis in LCAT-deficient subjects is however controversial. In this study, the effect of LCAT deficiency on vascular tone and endothelial function was investigated in LCAT knockout mice, which reproduce the human lipoprotein phenotype. Aortas from wild-type (Lcat(wt)) and LCAT knockout (Lcat(KO)) mice exposed to noradrenaline showed reduced contractility in Lcat(KO) mice (P<0.005), whereas acetylcholine exposure showed a lower NO-dependent relaxation in Lcat(KO) mice (P<0.05). Quantitative PCR and Western blotting analyses suggested an adequate eNOS expression in Lcat(KO) mouse aortas. Real-time PCR analysis indicated increased expression of β2-adrenergic receptors vs wild-type mice. Aorta stimulation with noradrenaline in the presence of propranolol, to abolish the β-mediated relaxation, showed the same contractile response in the two mouse lines. Furthermore, propranolol pretreatment of mouse aortas exposed to L-NAME prevented the difference in responses between Lcat(wt) and Lcat(KO) mice. The results indicate that LCAT deficiency leads to increased β2-adrenergic relaxation and to a consequently decreased NO-mediated vasodilation that can be reversed to guarantee a correct vascular tone. The present study suggests that LCAT deficiency is not associated with an impaired vascular reactivity. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Beta2-adrenergic activity modulates vascular tone regulation in lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase knockout mice

PubMed Central

Manzini, S.; Pinna, C.; Busnelli, M.; Cinquanta, P.; Rigamonti, E.; Ganzetti, G.S.; Dellera, F.; Sala, A.; Calabresi, L.; Franceschini, G.; Parolini, C.; Chiesa, G.

2015-01-01

Lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) deficiency is associated with hypoalphalipoproteinemia, generally a predisposing factor for premature coronary heart disease. The evidence of accelerated atherosclerosis in LCAT-deficient subjects is however controversial. In this study, the effect of LCAT deficiency on vascular tone and endothelial function was investigated in LCAT knockout mice, which reproduce the human lipoprotein phenotype. Aortas from wild-type (Lcatwt) and LCAT knockout (LcatKO) mice exposed to noradrenaline showed reduced contractility in LcatKO mice (P < 0.005), whereas acetylcholine exposure showed a lower NO-dependent relaxation in LcatKO mice (P < 0.05). Quantitative PCR and Western blotting analyses suggested an adequate eNOS expression in LcatKO mouse aortas. Real-time PCR analysis indicated increased expression of β2-adrenergic receptors vs wild-type mice. Aorta stimulation with noradrenaline in the presence of propranolol, to abolish the β-mediated relaxation, showed the same contractile response in the two mouse lines. Furthermore, propranolol pretreatment of mouse aortas exposed to L-NAME prevented the difference in responses between Lcatwt and LcatKO mice. The results indicate that LCAT deficiency leads to increased β2-adrenergic relaxation and to a consequently decreased NO-mediated vasodilation that can be reversed to guarantee a correct vascular tone. The present study suggests that LCAT deficiency is not associated with an impaired vascular reactivity. PMID:26254103

Effect of deuterium-depleted water on selected cardiometabolic parameters in fructose-treated rats.

PubMed

Rehakova, R; Klimentova, J; Cebova, M; Barta, A; Matuskova, Z; Labas, P; Pechanova, O

2016-10-24

Deuterium-depleted water (DDW) has a lower concentration of deuterium than occurs naturally (less than 145 ppm). While effects of DDW on cancer started to be intensively studied, the effects on cardiovascular system are completely unknown. Thus, we aimed to analyze the effects of DDW (55+/-5 ppm) administration to 12-week-old normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) treated with 15 % fructose for 6 weeks. Blood pressure (BP) and selected biochemical parameters were measured together with determination of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and iNOS and eNOS protein expressions in the left ventricle (LV) and aorta. Neither DDW nor fructose had any significant effect on BP in both strains. DDW treatment decreased total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in WKY, but it was not able to prevent increase in the same parameters elevated due to fructose treatment in SHR. Both fructose and DDW increased insulin level in WKY. Fructose did not affect NOS activity either in WKY or SHR. DDW increased NOS activity in LV of both WKY and SHR, while it decreased NOS activity and iNOS expression in the aorta of SHR with or without fructose treatment. In conclusion, DDW treatment significantly modified biochemical parameters in WKY together with NOS activity elevation in the heart. On the other hand, it did not affect biochemical parameters in SHR, but decreased NOS activity elevated due to iNOS upregulation in the aorta.

mTOR (Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin) Inhibition Decreases Mechanosignaling, Collagen Accumulation, and Stiffening of the Thoracic Aorta in Elastin-Deficient Mice.

PubMed

Jiao, Yang; Li, Guangxin; Li, Qingle; Ali, Rahmat; Qin, Lingfeng; Li, Wei; Qyang, Yibing; Greif, Daniel M; Geirsson, Arnar; Humphrey, Jay D; Tellides, George

2017-09-01

Elastin deficiency because of heterozygous loss of an ELN allele in Williams syndrome causes obstructive aortopathy characterized by medial thickening and fibrosis and consequent aortic stiffening. Previous work in Eln -null mice with a severe arterial phenotype showed that inhibition of mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin), a key regulator of cell growth, lessened the aortic obstruction but did not prevent early postnatal death. We investigated the effects of mTOR inhibition in Eln -null mice partially rescued by human ELN that manifest a less severe arterial phenotype and survive long term. Thoracic aortas of neonatal and juvenile mice with graded elastin deficiency exhibited increased signaling through both mTOR complex 1 and 2. Despite lower predicted wall stress, there was increased phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase, suggestive of greater integrin activation, and increased transforming growth factor-β-signaling mediators, associated with increased collagen expression. Pharmacological blockade of mTOR by rapalogs did not improve luminal stenosis but reduced mechanosignaling (in delayed fashion after mTOR complex 1 inhibition), medial collagen accumulation, and stiffening of the aorta. Rapalog administration also retarded somatic growth, however, and precipitated neonatal deaths. Complementary, less-toxic strategies to inhibit mTOR via altered growth factor and nutrient responses were not effective. In addition to previously demonstrated therapeutic benefits of rapalogs decreasing smooth muscle cell proliferation in the absence of elastin, we find that rapalogs also prevent aortic fibrosis and stiffening attributable to partial elastin deficiency. Our findings suggest that mTOR-sensitive perturbation of smooth muscle cell mechanosensing contributes to elastin aortopathy. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

[The influence of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors on collagen content of the aorta wall in experimental hypercholesterolemia].

PubMed

Wojakowski, W; Gmiński, J; Stajszczyk, M; Goss, M; Siemianowicz, K; Machalski, M

1999-01-01

In atherosclerosis numerous qualitative and quantitative changes in connective tissue metabolism parameters in serum and aorta occur. In atherosclerosis there is an enhanced activity of local renin-angiotensin systems. It leads to overexpression of ANG II, both in serum and arterial wall. ANG II stimulates SMC to over-synthesize the collagens type I and III. Hyper-cholesterolemia is a form of metabolic injury which can both induce phenotypic change of SMC and activate RA system in arterial wall. ACEI lower the accumulation of collagens type I and III, and enhance elastin content in arterial wall in experimental hypertension. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of captopril, enalapril and quinapril on connective tissue metabolism of the aorta in experimental hyper-cholesterolemia. 64 male New Zealand rabbits were used. Animals were fed with standard fodder, special diet (1% cholesterol content) or special diet + tested ACEI. Two doses of ACE inhibitors were used: 1st--equivalent to doses applied to human subjects (in mg/kg of body weight), 2nd--dose 10 times higher. The animals were divided into 8 equal groups: K--standard fodder, B--special diet, C1, C2--special diet + captopril in doses 2.5 and 25 mg/kg/24 hours, respectively, E1, E2--special diet + enalapril in doses 0.75 and 7.5 mg/kg/24 hours, respectively, Q1 i Q2--special diet + quinapril in doses 0.75 and 7.5 mg/kg per day, respectively. The experiment lasted for 6 months. After 24 weeks the animals were sacrificed and aortae were excised for collagens assay. The statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA, followed by LSD test; p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The aorta collagens content of cholesterol-fed rabbits significantly increased. The tested ACEI (captopril, enalapril in both doses and quinapril in lower dose) had a preventive effect against the increase of aorta collagen content.

Feasibility of low contrast media volume in CT angiography of the aorta

PubMed Central

Seehofnerová, Anna; Kok, Madeleine; Mihl, Casper; Douwes, Dave; Sailer, Anni; Nijssen, Estelle; de Haan, Michiel J.W.; Wildberger, Joachim E.; Das, Marco

2015-01-01

Objectives Using smaller volumes of contrast media (CM) in CT angiography (CTA) is desirable in terms of cost reduction and prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). The purpose was to evaluate the feasibility of low CM volume in CTA of the aorta. Methods 77 patients referred for CTA of the aorta were scanned using a standard MDCT protocol at 100 kV. A bolus of 50 ml CM (Iopromide 300 mg Iodine/ml) at a flow rate of 6 ml/s was applied (Iodine delivery rate IDR = 1.8 g/s; Iodine load 15 g) followed by a saline bolus of 40 ml at the same flow rate. Scan delay was determined by the test bolus method. Subjective image quality was assessed and contrast enhancement was measured at 10 anatomical levels of the aorta. Results Diagnostic quality images were obtained for all patients, reaching a mean overall contrast enhancement of 324 ± 28 HU. Mean attenuation was 350 ± 60 HU at the thoracic aorta and 315 ± 83 HU at the abdominal aorta. Conclusions A straightforward low volume CM protocol proved to be technically feasible and led to CTA examinations reaching diagnostic image quality of the aorta at 100 kV. Based on these findings, the use of a relatively small CM bolus can be incorporated into routine clinical imaging. PMID:26937437

Exogenous BMP7 in aortae of rats with chronic uremia ameliorates expression of profibrotic genes, but does not reverse established vascular calcification

PubMed Central

Gravesen, Eva; Lerche Mace, Maria; Nordholm, Anders; Hofman-Bang, Jacob; Hruska, Keith; Haagen Nielsen, Carsten; Kjær, Andreas; Olgaard, Klaus

2018-01-01

Hyperphosphatemia and vascular calcification are frequent complications of chronic renal failure and bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) has been shown to protect against development of vascular calcification in uremia. The present investigation examined the potential reversibility of established uremic vascular calcification by treatment of uremic rats with BMP7. A control model of isogenic transplantation of a calcified aorta from uremic rats into healthy littermates examined whether normalization of the uremic environment reversed vascular calcification. Uremia and vascular calcification were induced in rats by 5/6 nephrectomy, high phosphate diet and alfacalcidol treatment. After 14 weeks severe vascular calcification was present and rats were allocated to BMP7, vehicle or aorta transplantation. BMP7 treatment caused a significant decrease of plasma phosphate to 1.56 ± 0.17 mmol/L vs 2.06 ± 0.34 mmol/L in the vehicle group even in the setting of uremia and high phosphate diet. Uremia and alfacalcidol resulted in an increase in aortic expression of genes related to fibrosis, osteogenic transformation and extracellular matrix calcification, and the BMP7 treatment resulted in a decrease in the expression of profibrotic genes. The total Ca-content of the aorta was however unchanged both in the abdominal aorta: 1.9 ± 0.6 μg/mg tissue in the vehicle group vs 2.2 ± 0.6 μg/mg tissue in the BMP7 group and in the thoracic aorta: 71 ± 27 μg/mg tissue in the vehicle group vs 54 ± 18 μg/mg tissue in the BMP7 group. Likewise, normalization of the uremic environment by aorta transplantation had no effect on the Ca-content of the calcified aorta: 16.3 ± 0.6 μg/mg tissue pre-transplantation vs 15.9 ± 2.3 μg/mg tissue post-transplantation. Aortic expression of genes directly linked to extracellular matrix calcification was not affected by BMP7 treatment, which hypothetically might explain persistent high Ca-content in established vascular calcification. The present results highlight the importance of preventing the development of vascular calcification in chronic kidney disease. Once established, vascular calcification persists even in the setting when hyperphosphatemia or the uremic milieu is abolished. PMID:29304096

Aortic remodeling after transverse aortic constriction in mice is attenuated with AT1 receptor blockade.

PubMed

Kuang, Shao-Qing; Geng, Liang; Prakash, Siddharth K; Cao, Jiu-Mei; Guo, Steven; Villamizar, Carlos; Kwartler, Callie S; Peters, Andrew M; Brasier, Allan R; Milewicz, Dianna M

2013-09-01

Although hypertension is the most common risk factor for thoracic aortic diseases, it is not understood how increased pressures on the ascending aorta lead to aortic aneurysms. We investigated the role of angiotensin II type 1 receptor activation in ascending aortic remodeling in response to increased biomechanical forces using a transverse aortic constriction (TAC) mouse model. Two weeks after TAC, the increased biomechanical pressures led to ascending aortic dilatation and thickening of the medial and adventitial layers of the aorta. There was significant adventitial hyperplasia and inflammatory responses in TAC ascending aortas were accompanied by increased adventitial collagen, elevated inflammatory and proliferative markers, and increased cell density attributable to accumulation of myofibroblasts and macrophages. Treatment with losartan significantly blocked TAC-induced vascular inflammation and macrophage accumulation. However, losartan only partially prevented TAC-induced adventitial hyperplasia, collagen accumulation, and ascending aortic dilatation. Increased Tgfb2 expression and phosphorylated-Smad2 staining in the medial layer of TAC ascending aortas were effectively blocked with losartan. In contrast, the increased Tgfb1 expression and adventitial phospho-Smad2 staining were only partially attenuated by losartan. In addition, losartan significantly blocked extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation and reactive oxygen species production in the TAC ascending aorta. Inhibition of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor using losartan significantly attenuated the vascular remodeling associated with TAC but did not completely block the increased transforming growth factor-β1 expression, adventitial Smad2 signaling, and collagen accumulation. These results help to delineate the aortic transforming growth factor-β signaling that is dependent and independent of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor after TAC.

Prevention of salt induced hypertension and fibrosis by angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in Dahl S rats

PubMed Central

Liang, B; Leenen, F H H

2007-01-01

Background and purpose: In Dahl S rats, high salt increases activity of the tissue renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in the CNS, heart and kidneys. Here, we assessed the effects of chronic angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition on salt-induced hypertension and cardiovascular and renal hypertrophy and fibrosis, relative to the extent of ACE blockade. Experimental approach: From 4.5 weeks of age, Dahl S rats received either the lipophilic ACE inhibitor trandolapril (1 or 5 mg kg-1 day-1) or the hydrophilic ACE inhibitor lisinopril (10 or 50 mg kg-1 day-1) and a high salt diet was started 0.5 week later. Treatments ended at 9 weeks of age. Key results: High salt diet markedly increased blood pressure (BP), decreased plasma angiotensin II and increased ACE binding densities in brain, heart, aorta and kidneys. Trandolapril and lisinopril prevented 50% of the increase in BP in light and dark period of the day. After the last doses, trandolapril decreased ACE densities by ∼80% in brain nuclei and heart and lisinopril by ∼60% in the brain and by ∼70% in the heart. The two ACE inhibitors prevented right ventricular hypertrophy and attenuated left ventricular hypertrophy but did not affect renal hypertrophy caused by high salt. Both drugs prevented high salt-induced fibrosis in heart, kidney and aorta. Conclusion and implication: As the ACE inhibitors could completely prevent tissue fibrosis and partially prevent tissue hypertrophy and hypertension, the tissue RAAS may play a critical role in salt-induced fibrosis, but a lesser role in the hypertrophy. PMID:17906684

The Effect of Chlorpyrifos on Isolated Thoracic Aorta in Rats

PubMed Central

Yıldırım, Ebru; Baydan, Emine; Kanbur, Murat; Kul, Oğuz; Çınar, Miyase; Ekici, Hüsamettin; Atmaca, Nurgül

2013-01-01

This study investigated the effect of chlorpyrifos on thoracic aorta and on the level of NO in plasma and aorta. The effect of chlorpyrifos on thoracic aorta in organ bath was determined in 10 rats. Another 45 rats were assigned to 3 groups with 15 rats each: control group 1 received distilled water, control group 2 was given corn oil, and the last group was given 13.5 mg/kg chlorpyrifos dissolved in corn oil every other day for 8 weeks orally. Chlorpyrifos (10−10 M–10−5 M) showed no effect on isolated thoracic aorta. Plasma AChE activity was decreased, while LDH, ALT, GGT, and AST activities were increased in chlorpyrifos group compared to control groups. Plasma NO level was increased in chlorpyrifos group compared to control groups. iNOS expression was present in all groups in the cytoplasm of the endothelia and in the smooth muscle cells of aorta. According to semiquantitative histomorphological analysis, iNOS immunopositive reactions were seen in the decreasing order in chlorpyrifos, control 2, and control 1 groups. eNOS immunopositive reactions were observed in the endothelial cell cytoplasm, rarely in the subintimal layer, and the smooth muscle cells of aorta. There were no differences among the groups in terms of eNOS immunostaining. In conclusion, chlorpyrifos induced NO production in aorta following an increase in NOS expression. PMID:23878805

High-pitch dual-source CT angiography without ECG-gating for imaging the whole aorta: intraindividual comparison with standard pitch single-source technique without ECG-gating

PubMed Central

Manna, Carmelinda; Silva, Mario; Cobelli, Rocco; Poggesi, Sara; Rossi, Cristina; Sverzellati, Nicola

2017-01-01

PURPOSE We aimed to perform intraindividual comparison of computed tomography (CT) parameters, image quality, and radiation exposure between standard CT angiography (CTA) and high-pitch dual source (DS)-CTA, in subjects undergoing serial CTA of thoracoabdominal aorta. METHODS Eighteen subjects with thoracoabdominal CTA by standard technique and high-pitch DS-CTA technique within 6 months of each other were retrieved for intraindividual comparison of image quality in thoracic and abdominal aorta. Quantitative analysis was performed by comparison of mean aortic attenuation, noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Qualitative analysis was performed by visual assessment of motion artifacts and diagnostic confidence. Radiation exposure was quantified by effective dose. Image quality was apportioned to radiation exposure by means of figure of merit. RESULTS Mean aortic attenuation and noise were higher in high-pitch DS-CTA of thoracoabdominal aorta, whereas SNR and CNR were similar in thoracic aorta and significantly lower in high-pitch DS-CTA of abdominal aorta (P = 0.024 and P = 0.016). High-pitch DS-CTA was significantly better in the first segment of thoracic aorta. Effective dose was reduced by 72% in high-pitch DS-CTA. CONCLUSION High-pitch DS-CTA without electrocardiography-gating is an effective technique for imaging aorta with very low radiation exposure and with significant reduction of motion artifacts in ascending aorta; however, the overall quality of high-pitch DS-CTA in abdominal aorta is lower than standard CTA. PMID:28703104

Hypolipidemic and anti-inflammatory effects of aorta and heart tissues of cattle and pigs in the atherosclerosis rat model.

PubMed

Chernukha, Irina M; Fedulova, Liliya V; Kotenkova, Elena A; Takeda, Shiro; Sakata, Ryoichi

2018-05-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of aorta and heart tissues obtained from cattle and pigs on atherosclerosis disorders. Atherosclerosis model rats were provided with the respective diets consisting of aorta and heart tissues. Administration of each tissue suppressed body weight gain as compared to that of the control. In particular, the aorta tissues of pigs and cattle demonstrated significant suppressions in body weight gain in the model rats. The aorta tissues of pigs and cattle showed a significant increase and decrease in the serum high-density lipoproteins and atherogenic index, respectively, which was correlated with the increase in apolipoprotein A1. Hematological analysis revealed that aorta tissues of pigs and cattle clearly reduced the ratio of granulocytes/lymphocytes in the atherosclerosis rats. Serum vascular cellular adhesion molecule-1 levels in the atherosclerosis rats, which were administered these aorta tissues, were also significantly reduced. Additionally, there was an increase in von Willebrand factor in the rat serum. Based on the results obtained, the aorta tissues of pigs and cattle, in particular, demonstrated positive effects in the atherosclerosis rats due to the alteration of lipid metabolism and reduction in inflammation related to atherosclerosis. © 2018 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

Dyslipidogenic microangiopathy in guinea pigs at early stages of atherogenesis.

PubMed

Bersenev, A V; Klimenko, E D; Kobozeva, L P; Michunskaya, A B; Onishchenko, N A; Pozdnyakov, O M

2003-08-01

We studied the effect of dyslipidemia on lipid metabolism, state of microcirculatory system, and morphological alterations in the aorta and liver of guinea pigs at the early stages of experimental atherogenesis. The important role of microcirculatory disorders in the development of regional pathology and atherosclerosis is confirmed. The proposed alimentary model can be used in the development of novel methods for prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.

Whey peptide Isoleucine-Tryptophan inhibits expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in rat aorta.

PubMed

Kopaliani, Irakli; Martin, Melanie; Zatschler, Birgit; Müller, Bianca; Deussen, Andreas

2016-08-01

Aortic stiffness is an independent risk factor for development of cardiovascular diseases. Activation of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) including angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity leads to overproduction of angiotensin II (ANGII) from its precursor angiotensin I (ANGI). ANGII leads to overexpression and activation of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2), which is critically associated with pathophysiology of aortic stiffness. We previously reported that the whey peptide Isoleucine-Tryptophan (IW) acts as a potent ACE inhibitor. Herein, we critically elucidate the mechanism of action by which IW causes inhibition of expression and activity of MMP2 in aortic tissue. Effects of IW on expression and activity of MMP2 were assessed on endothelial and smooth muscle cells (ECs and SMCs) in vitro and ex vivo (isolated rat aorta). As controls we used the pharmaceutical ACE inhibitor - captopril and the ANGII type 1 receptor blocker - losartan. In vitro, both ANGII and ANGI stimulation significantly (P<0.01) increased expression of MMP2 assessed with western blot. Similarly, to captopril IW significantly (P<0.05) inhibited ANGI, but not ANGII mediated increase in expression of MMP2, while losartan also blocked effects of ANGII. Signaling pathways regulating MMP2 expression in ECs and SMCs were similarly inhibited after treatment with IW or captopril. In ECs IW significantly (P<0.05) inhibited JNK pathway, whereas in SMCs JAK2/STAT3 pathway, assessed with western blot. In vitro findings were fully consistent with results in isolated rat aorta ex vivo. Moreover, IW not only inhibited the MMP2 expression, but also its activation assessed with gelatin zymography. Our findings demonstrate that IW effectively inhibits expression and activation of MMP2 in rat aorta by decreasing local conversion of ANGI to ANGII. Thus, similar to pharmaceutical ACE inhibitor captopril the dipeptide IW may effectively inhibit ACE activity and prevent the age and hypertension associated rise of aortic stiffness. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of non-Newtonian and pulsatile blood flow on mass transport in the human aorta.

PubMed

Liu, Xiao; Fan, Yubo; Deng, Xiaoyan; Zhan, Fan

2011-04-07

To investigate the effects of both non-Newtonian behavior and the pulsation of blood flow on the distributions of luminal surface LDL concentration and oxygen flux along the wall of the human aorta, we numerically compared a non-Newtonian model with the Newtonian one under both steady flow and in vivo pulsatile flow conditions using a human aorta model constructed from MRI images. The results showed that under steady flow conditions, although the shear thinning non-Newtonian nature of blood could elevate wall shear stress (WSS) in most regions of the aorta, especially areas with low WSS, it had little effect on luminal surface LDL concentration (c(w)) in most regions of the aorta. Nevertheless, it could significantly enhance c(w) in areas with high luminal surface LDL concentration through the shear dependent diffusivity of LDLs. For oxygen transport, the shear thinning non-Newtonian nature of blood could slightly reduce oxygen flux in most regions of the aorta, but this effect became much more apparent in areas with already low oxygen flux. The pulsation of blood flow could significantly reduce c(w) and enhance oxygen flux in these disturbed places. In most other regions of the aorta, the oxygen flux was also significantly higher than that for the steady flow simulation. In conclusion, the shear shining non-Newtonian nature of blood has little effect on LDL and oxygen transport in most regions of the aorta, but in the atherogenic-prone areas where luminal surface LDL concentration is high and oxygen flux is low, its effect is apparent. Similar is for the effect of pulsatile flow on the transport of LDLs. But, the pulsation of blood flow can apparently affect oxygen flux in the aorta, especially in areas with low oxygen flux. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Loss of Anticontractile Effect of Perivascular Adipose Tissue on Pregnant Rats: A Potential Role of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α.

PubMed

Al-Jarallah, Aishah; Oriowo, Mabayoje A

2016-02-01

The present investigation examined the effect of pregnancy on the anticontractile effect of perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) on the rat. Ring segments of the aorta, with and without PVAT, were set up in organ baths for isometric tension recording. In both groups, concentration-response curves to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were displaced to the right with a reduction of the maximum response in aorta segments with PVAT. The anticontractile effect of PVAT was attenuated on segments from pregnant rats. 4-Aminopyridine (4-AP), an inhibitor of voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels, enhanced 5-HT-induced contractions of aorta segments from pregnant and nonpregnant rats only when PVAT was attached. There was no difference in the effect of 4-aminopyridine on 5-HT-induced contractions of aorta segments with PVAT from pregnant and nonpregnant rats. There was also no significant difference in the expression of Kv7.4 channels in aorta segments (with PVAT) between pregnant and nonpregnant rats. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was detected in PVAT from pregnant and nonpregnant rats. The level of TNF-α was significantly greater in PVAT from pregnant rats. Treatment of pregnant rats with pentoxyphyline significantly reduced the level of TNF-α in the PVAT and restored the anticontractile effect of PVAT on aorta segments from pregnant rats. Finally, TNF-α (10 ng/mL) potentiated 5-HT-induced contractions of PVAT-containing pregnant rat aorta. These results would suggest that the loss of anticontractile effect of PVAT in pregnant rat aorta could be due to enhanced production of TNF-α in the PVAT in these rats.

Aortic expansion rate in patients with dilated post-stenotic ascending aorta submitted only to aortic valve replacement long-term follow-up.

PubMed

Gaudino, Mario; Anselmi, Amedeo; Morelli, Mauro; Pragliola, Claudio; Tsiopoulos, Vasileios; Glieca, Franco; Possati, Gianfederico

2011-08-02

This study was conceived to describe the evolution of aortic dimensions in patients with moderate post-stenotic ascending aorta dilation (50 to 59 mm) submitted to aortic valve replacement (AVR) alone. The appropriate treatment of post-stenotic ascending aorta dilation has been poorly investigated. Ninety-three patients affected by severe isolated calcific aortic valve stenosis in the tricuspid aortic valve accompanied by moderate dilation of the ascending aorta (50 to 59 mm) were submitted to AVR only. All patients were followed for a mean of 14.7 ± 4.8 years by means of periodic clinical evaluations and echocardiography and tomography scans of the thorax. Operative mortality was 1.0% (1 patient). During the follow-up, 16 patients died and 2 had to be reoperated for valve dysfunction. No patients experienced acute aortic events (rupture, dissection, pseudoaneurysm), and no patient had to be reoperated on the aorta. There was not a substantial increase in aortic dimensions: mean aortic diameter was 57 ± 11 mm at the end of the follow-up versus 56 ± 02 mm pre-operatively (p = NS). The mean ascending aorta expansion rate was 0.3 ± 0.2 mm/year. In the absence of connective tissue disorders, AVR alone is sufficient to prevent further aortic expansion in patients with moderate post-stenotic dilation of the ascending aorta. Aortic replacement can probably be reserved for patients with a long life expectancy. Copyright © 2011 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Apocynin suppresses the progression of atherosclerosis in apoE-deficient mice by inactivation of macrophages

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kinoshita, Hiroyuki; Matsumura, Takeshi, E-mail: takeshim@gpo.kumamoto-u.ac.jp; Ishii, Norio

Highlights: ► We examined the anti-athrogenic effect of apocynin in atherosclerotic model mice. ► Apocynin prevented atherosclerotic lesion formation. ► Apocynin suppressed ROS production in aorta and in macrophages. ► Apocynin suppressed cytokine expression and cell proliferation in macrophages. ► Apocynin may be beneficial compound for the prevention of atherosclerosis. -- Abstract: Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other proinflammatory substances by macrophages plays an important role in atherogenesis. Apocynin (4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-acetophenone), which is well known as a NADPH oxidase inhibitor, has anti-inflammatory effects including suppression of the generation of ROS. However, the suppressive effects of apocynin on the progressionmore » of atherosclerosis are not clearly understood. Thus, we investigated anti-atherosclerotic effects of apocynin using apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE{sup –/–}) mice in vivo and in mouse peritoneal macrophages in vitro. In atherosclerosis-prone apoE{sup –/–} mice, apocynin suppressed the progression of atherosclerosis, decreased 4-hydroxynonenal-positive area in atherosclerotic lesions, and mRNA expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in aorta. In mouse peritoneal macrophages, apocynin suppressed the Ox-LDL-induced ROS generation, mRNA expression of MCP-1, IL-6 and granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor, and cell proliferation. Moreover, immunohistochemical studies revealed that apocynin decreased the number of proliferating cell nuclear antigen-positive macrophages in atherosclerotic lesions of apoE{sup –/–} mice. These results suggested that apocynin suppressed the formation of atherosclerotic lesions, at least in part, by inactivation of macrophages. Therefore, apocynin may be a potential therapeutic material to prevent the progression of atherosclerosis.« less

SIRT1 inhibits NADPH oxidase activation and protects endothelial function in the rat aorta: implications for vascular aging.

PubMed

Zarzuelo, María José; López-Sepúlveda, Rocío; Sánchez, Manuel; Romero, Miguel; Gómez-Guzmán, Manuel; Ungvary, Zoltan; Pérez-Vizcaíno, Francisco; Jiménez, Rosario; Duarte, Juan

2013-05-01

Vascular aging is characterized by up-regulation of NADPH oxidase, oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Previous studies demonstrate that the activity of the evolutionarily conserved NAD(+)-dependent deacetylase SIRT1 declines with age and that pharmacological activators of SIRT1 confer significant anti-aging cardiovascular effects. To determine whether dysregulation of SIRT1 promotes NADPH oxidase-dependent production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and impairs endothelial function we assessed the effects of three structurally different inhibitors of SIRT1 (nicotinamide, sirtinol, EX527) in aorta segments isolated from young Wistar rats. Inhibition of SIRT1 induced endothelial dysfunction, as shown by the significantly reduced relaxation to the endothelium-dependent vasodilators acetylcholine and the calcium ionophore A23187. Endothelial dysfunction induced by SIRT1 inhibition was prevented by treatment of the vessels with the NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin or superoxide dismutase. Inhibition of SIRT1 significantly increased vascular superoxide production, enhanced NADPH oxidase activity, and mRNA expression of its subunits p22(phox) and NOX4, which were prevented by resveratrol. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα) activation mimicked the effects of resveratrol while PPARα inhibition prevented the effects of this SIRT1 activator. SIRT1 co-precipitated with PPARα and nicotinamide increased the acetylation of the PPARα coactivator PGC-1α, which was suppressed by resveratrol. In conclusion, impaired activity of SIRT1 induces endothelial dysfunction and up-regulates NADPH oxidase-derived ROS production in the vascular wall, mimicking the vascular aging phenotype. Moreover, a new mechanism for controlling endothelial function after SIRT1 activation involves a decreased PGC-1α acetylation and the subsequent PPARα activation, resulting in both decreased NADPH oxidase-driven ROS production and NO inactivation. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Renal failure in surgery of abdominal aorta aneurysms].

PubMed

Pokrovskiĭ, A V; Asamov, R E; Ermoliuk, R S; Iudin, V I; Kapanadze, G I

1994-09-01

The authors analyse the experience in operations for resection of an aneurysm of the abdominal aorta in 70 patients, which were performed at the Vishnevsky Institute of Surgery, AMS of Russia, from 1983 to 1991. Preoperative examination revealed renal insufficiency in 8 (11.4%) patients. Resection of the aneurysm of the abdominal aorta with one-stage prosthetics of the renal arteries was carried out in 10 cases. To prevent ischemic damage to the renal parenchyma and acute renal insufficiency, local methods of kidney protection (isolated cold perfusion--2 and normothermic aorto-renal perfusion--2) were applied in 4 of 70 cases. The work discusses the methods of kidney protection and the indications and contraindications for their use, and factors promoting the development of postoperative renal insufficiency. Postoperative complications are shown and their causes are identified.

Effects of nesfatin-1 on atrial contractility and thoracic aorta reactivity in male rats.

PubMed

Barutcigil, Ayşe; Tasatargil, Arda

2017-10-13

This study aimed to examine the effects of nesfatin-1 on thoracic aorta vasoreactivity and to investigate the inotropic and chronotropic effects of nesfatin-1 on the spontaneous contractions of the isolated rat atria. Isolated right atria and thoracic aorta were used in organ baths. The reactivity of the thoracic aorta was evaluated by potassium chloride (KCl), phenylephrine (Phe), acetylcholine (ACh), and sodium nitroprusside (SNP). The effects of nesfatin-1 on the spontaneous contractions of the rat atria were also examined. Nesfatin-1 (0.1-100 ng/ml) produced a concentration-dependent relaxation response in rat thoracic aorta. The relaxant responses to nesfatin-1 were inhibited by the removal of endothelium, NO synthase blocker N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10 -4  M), and soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ, 10 -5  M). Nesfatin-1 (10 ng/ml, 30 min) increased the relaxation responses to either ACh or SNP, and the contractile response to both Phe and KCl did not significantly change in the arteries that were incubated with nesfatin-1 compared with the controls. The thoracic aorta contractions induced by the stepwise addition of Ca 2+ to a high KCl solution with no Ca 2+ were not significantly changed by nesfatin-1. Under calcium-free conditions, the contractions of the thoracic aorta rings incubated with nesfatin-1 in response to Phe were not significantly lower than those of the rings from the control rats. Nesfatin-1 showed positive inotropic and chronotropic effects on rat atria. Nesfatin-1 significantly changed the vascular responsiveness in rat thoracic aorta and produced positive inotropic and chronotropic effects on rat atria.

6-Gingerol alleviates exaggerated vasoconstriction in diabetic rat aorta through direct vasodilation and nitric oxide generation.

PubMed

Ghareib, Salah A; El-Bassossy, Hany M; Elberry, Ahmed A; Azhar, Ahmad; Watson, Malcolm L; Banjar, Zainy Mohammed

2015-01-01

The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect and potential mechanism of action of 6-gingerol on alterations of vascular reactivity in the isolated aorta from diabetic rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into two experimental groups, control and diabetics. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg kg(-1)), and the rats were left for 10 weeks to develop vascular complications. The effect of in vitro incubation with 6-gingerol (0.3-3 μM) on the vasoconstrictor response of the isolated diabetic aortae to phenylephrine and the vasodilator response to acetylcholine was examined. Effect of 6-gingerol was also examined on aortae incubated with methylglyoxal as an advanced glycation end product (AGE). To investigate the mechanism of action of 6-gingerol, the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (100 μM), guanylate cyclase inhibitor methylene blue (5 μM), calcium-activated potassium channel blocker tetraethylammonium chloride (10 mM), and cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (5 μM) were added 30 minutes before assessing the direct vasorelaxant effect of 6-gingerol. Moreover, in vitro effects of 6-gingerol on NO release and the effect of 6-gingerol on AGE production were examined. Results showed that incubation of aortae with 6-gingerol (0.3-10 μM) alleviated the exaggerated vasoconstriction of diabetic aortae to phenylephrine in a concentration-dependent manner with no significant effect on the impaired relaxatory response to acetylcholine. Similar results were seen in the aortae exposed to methylglyoxal. In addition, 6-gingerol induced a direct vasodilation effect that was significantly inhibited by Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride and methylene blue. Furthermore, 6-gingerol stimulated aortic NO generation but had no effect on AGE formation. In conclusion, 6-gingerol ameliorates enhanced vascular contraction in diabetic aortae, which may be partially attributed to its ability to increase the production of NO and stimulation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate.

6-Gingerol alleviates exaggerated vasoconstriction in diabetic rat aorta through direct vasodilation and nitric oxide generation

PubMed Central

Ghareib, Salah A; El-Bassossy, Hany M; Elberry, Ahmed A; Azhar, Ahmad; Watson, Malcolm L; Banjar, Zainy Mohammed

2015-01-01

The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect and potential mechanism of action of 6-gingerol on alterations of vascular reactivity in the isolated aorta from diabetic rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into two experimental groups, control and diabetics. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg kg−1), and the rats were left for 10 weeks to develop vascular complications. The effect of in vitro incubation with 6-gingerol (0.3–3 μM) on the vasoconstrictor response of the isolated diabetic aortae to phenylephrine and the vasodilator response to acetylcholine was examined. Effect of 6-gingerol was also examined on aortae incubated with methylglyoxal as an advanced glycation end product (AGE). To investigate the mechanism of action of 6-gingerol, the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (100 μM), guanylate cyclase inhibitor methylene blue (5 μM), calcium-activated potassium channel blocker tetraethylammonium chloride (10 mM), and cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (5 μM) were added 30 minutes before assessing the direct vasorelaxant effect of 6-gingerol. Moreover, in vitro effects of 6-gingerol on NO release and the effect of 6-gingerol on AGE production were examined. Results showed that incubation of aortae with 6-gingerol (0.3–10 μM) alleviated the exaggerated vasoconstriction of diabetic aortae to phenylephrine in a concentration-dependent manner with no significant effect on the impaired relaxatory response to acetylcholine. Similar results were seen in the aortae exposed to methylglyoxal. In addition, 6-gingerol induced a direct vasodilation effect that was significantly inhibited by Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride and methylene blue. Furthermore, 6-gingerol stimulated aortic NO generation but had no effect on AGE formation. In conclusion, 6-gingerol ameliorates enhanced vascular contraction in diabetic aortae, which may be partially attributed to its ability to increase the production of NO and stimulation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate. PMID:26609223

Mathematical, numerical and experimental study in the human aorta with coexisting models of bicuspid aortic stenosis and coarctation of the aorta.

PubMed

Keshavarz-Motamed, Z; Garcia, J; Kadem, L

2011-01-01

Coarctation of the aorta is an obstruction of the aorta and is usually associated with other concomitant cardiovascular abnormalities especially with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis. The objectives of this study are, (1) to investigate the effects of coarctation on the hemodynamics in the aorta to gain a better understanding of the cause of certain post-surgical coarctation problems, (2) to develop and introduce a new lumped parameter model, mainly based on non-invasive data, allowing the description of the interaction between left ventricle, coarctation of the aorta, aortic valve stenosis, and the arterial system.

Protective effect of soybeans as protein source in the diet against cadmium-aorta redox and morphological alteration

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pérez Díaz, Matías F.F.; Acosta, Mariano; Mohamed, Fabián H.

We investigated the effects of cadmium exposition on thoracic aorta redox status and morphology, and the putative protective effect of soybeans in the diet. Male Wistar rats were separated into 6 groups: 3 fed with a diet containing casein and 3 containing soybeans, as protein source. Within each protein group, one was given tap water (control) and the other two tap water containing 15 and 100 ppm of Cd{sup 2+}, respectively, for two months. In rats fed with casein diet, 15 ppm of Cd induced an increase of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), and of the catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidasemore » (GPx) activities, which were even higher with 100 ppm of Cd{sup 2+}, in aorta. Also, 100 ppm Cd{sup 2+} exposure increased superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) activity; CAT, GPX, SOD, Nrf2 and metallothioneine II mRNA expressions and CAT, GPx and NOX-2 protein levels, compared with control. Aorta endothelial and cytoplasmic alterations were observed. However, with the soybeans diet, 15 and 100 ppm of Cd{sup 2+} did not modify TBARS levels; CAT, GPX and Nrf2 mRNA expressions; CAT, GPx and NOX-2 protein; and the aorta morphology, compared with control. The soybean diet attenuates the redox changes and protects against morphological alterations induced, in a dose-dependent way, by Cd in aorta. - Highlights: • Under casein diet, 100 ppm Cd{sup 2+} in drinking water induces oxidative stress in aorta. • Under casein diet, 100 ppm Cd{sup 2+} increases Nrf2, MT II and NOX2 expressions in aorta. • Under casein diet, 100 ppm Cd{sup 2+} induces morphological changes in rat aorta. • The soybean diet attenuates the redox changes induced by Cd in rat aorta. • The soybean diet attenuates morphological alterations induced by Cd in rat aorta.« less

Angiotensin-(1-9) reverses experimental hypertension and cardiovascular damage by inhibition of the angiotensin converting enzyme/Ang II axis.

PubMed

Ocaranza, Maria Paz; Moya, Jackeline; Barrientos, Victor; Alzamora, Rodrigo; Hevia, Daniel; Morales, Cristobal; Pinto, Melissa; Escudero, Nicolás; García, Lorena; Novoa, Ulises; Ayala, Pedro; Díaz-Araya, Guillermo; Godoy, Ivan; Chiong, Mario; Lavandero, Sergio; Jalil, Jorge E; Michea, Luis

2014-04-01

Little is known about the biological effects of angiotensin-(1-9), but available evidence shows that angiotensin-(1-9) has beneficial effects in preventing/ameliorating cardiovascular remodeling. In this study, we evaluated whether angiotensin-(1-9) decreases hypertension and reverses experimental cardiovascular damage in the rat. Angiotensin-(1-9) (600  ng/kg per min for 2 weeks) reduced already-established hypertension in rats with early high blood pressure induced by angiotensin II infusion or renal artery clipping. Angiotensin-(1-9) also improved cardiac (assessed by echocardiography) and endothelial function in small-diameter mesenteric arteries, cardiac and aortic wall hypertrophy, fibrosis, oxidative stress, collagen and transforming growth factor type β - 1 protein expression (assessed by western blot). The beneficial effect of angiotensin-(1-9) was blunted by coadministration of the angiotensin type 2(AT2) receptor blocker PD123319 (36  ng/kg per min) but not by coadministration of the Mas receptor blocker A779 (100  ng/kg per min). Angiotensin-(1-9) treatment also decreased circulating levels of Ang II, angiotensin-converting enzyme activity and oxidative stress in aorta and left ventricle. Whereas, Ang-(1-9) increased endothelial nitric oxide synthase mRNA levels in aorta as well as plasma nitrate levels. Angiotensin-(1-9) reduces hypertension, ameliorates structural alterations (hypertrophy and fibrosis), oxidative stress in the heart and aorta and improves cardiac and endothelial function in hypertensive rats. These effects were mediated by the AT2 receptor but not by the angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas receptor axis.

Ascending aortic curvature as an independent risk factor for type A dissection, and ascending aortic aneurysm formation: a mathematical model.

PubMed

Poullis, Michael P; Warwick, Richard; Oo, Aung; Poole, Robert J

2008-06-01

To develop a mathematical model to demonstrate that ascending aortic curvature is an independent risk factor for type A dissections, in addition to hypertension, bicuspid aortic valve, aneurysm of ascending aorta, and intrinsic aortic tissue abnormalities, like Marfan's syndrome. A steady state one-dimensional flow analysis was performed, utilising Newton's third law of motion. Five different clinical scenarios were evaluated: (1) effect of aortic curvature; (2) effect of beta-blockers, (3) effect of patient size, (4) forces on a Marfan's aorta, and (5) site of entry flap in aortic dissection. Aortic curvature increases the forces exerted on the ascending aorta by a factor of over 10-fold. Aortic curvature can cause patients with a systolic blood pressure of 8 0mmHg to have greater forces exerted on their aorta despite smaller diameters and lower cardiac outputs, than patients with systolic blood pressures of 120 mmHg. In normal diameter aortas, beta-blockers have minimal effect compared with aortic curvature. Aortic curvature may help to explain why normal diameter aortas can dissect, and also that the point of the entry tear may be potentially predictable. Aortic curvature has major effects on the forces exerted on the aorta in patients with Marfan's syndrome. Aortic curvature is relatively more important that aortic diameter, blood pressure, cardiac output, beta-blocker use, and patient size with regard to the force acting on the aortic wall. This may explain why some patients with normal diameter ascending aortas with or without Marfan's syndrome develop type A dissections and aneurysms. Aortic curvature may also help to explain the site of entry tear in acute type A dissection. Further clinical study is needed to validate this study's finding.

In vitro evaluation of the effect of aortic compliance on pediatric intra-aortic balloon pumping.

PubMed

Minich, L L; Tani, L Y; Hawkins, J A; Bartkowiak, R R; Royall, M L; Pantalos, G M

2001-04-01

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of aortic compliance on pediatric intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP). DESIGN: In vitro study using a mechanical model of the pediatric left heart circulation. SETTING: Cardiovascular fluid dynamics research laboratory. SUBJECT: Pulsatile flow system simulating the pediatric left heart circulation and two different aortas with compliances comparable to those of the pediatric aorta (0.12 and 0.07 mL/mm Hg). INTERVENTIONS: Measurements were made at a baseline peak aortic flow of 4 L/min, at simulated shock (1.7 L/min), and with 1:1 IABP (rates, 130 and 150 bpm; balloon volumes, 2.5 and 5.0 mL). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Peak flow rates were measured in the ascending aorta, coronary arterial system, and brachiocephalic arterial systems. Aortic pressure was measured in the ascending aorta. For both aortas (0.12 and 0.07 mL/mm Hg), IABP resulted in diastolic augmentation (38 +/- 8 and 43 +/- 16 mm Hg) and afterload reduction (4 +/- 2 and 6 +/- 3 mm Hg). For both aortas, compared to shock, IABP resulted in significant increases in coronary arterial and brachiocephalic arterial flow and aortic pressure for both aortas. Aortic flow significantly increased only in the less-compliant aorta. CONCLUSIONS: In a laboratory model of pediatric left heart circulation, IABP results in diastolic augmentation, afterload reduction, and improved hemodynamics, even in aortas of greater compliance.

Lipid Emulsion Attenuates Acetylcholine-Induced Relaxation in Isolated Rat Aorta

PubMed Central

Ok, Seong-Ho; Lee, Soo Hee; Yu, Jongsun; Park, Jungchul; Shin, Il-Woo; Lee, Youngju; Cho, Hyunhoo; Choi, Mun-Jeoung; Baik, Jiseok; Hong, Jeong-Min; Han, Jeong Yeol; Lee, Heon Keun; Chung, Young-Kyun; Sohn, Ju-Tae

2015-01-01

We investigated the effect of Lipofundin MCT/LCT and Intralipid on acetylcholine-induced nitric oxide- (NO-) mediated relaxation in rat aorta to determine which lipid emulsion (LE) is more potent in terms of inhibition of NO-induced relaxation. Dose-response curves of responses induced by acetylcholine, the calcium ionophore A23187, and sodium nitroprusside were generated using isolated rat aorta with or without LE. The effect of Lipofundin MCT/LCT on acetylcholine-induced endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was investigated using western blotting. Lipofundin MCT/LCT (0.1 and 0.2%) attenuated acetylcholine-induced relaxation in endothelium-intact aorta with or without tiron, whereas 0.2% Intralipid only inhibited relaxation. Lipofundin MCT/LCT inhibited relaxation induced by the calcium ionophore A23187 and sodium nitroprusside in endothelium-intact aorta, but Lipofundin MCT/LCT had no effect on sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxation in the endothelium-denuded aorta. Combined pretreatment with l-arginine plus Lipofundin MCT/LCT increased acetylcholine-induced maximal relaxation in endothelium-intact aorta compared with Lipofundin MCT/LCT alone. l-Arginine attenuated Lipofundin MCT/LCT-mediated inhibition of acetylcholine-induced eNOS phosphorylation in HUVECs. Taken together, Lipofundin MCT/LCT attenuated acetylcholine-induced NO-mediated relaxation via an inhibitory effect on the endothelium including eNOS, which is proximal to activation of guanylyl cyclase. PMID:26273653

Lipid Emulsion Attenuates Acetylcholine-Induced Relaxation in Isolated Rat Aorta.

PubMed

Ok, Seong-Ho; Lee, Soo Hee; Yu, Jongsun; Park, Jungchul; Shin, Il-Woo; Lee, Youngju; Cho, Hyunhoo; Choi, Mun-Jeoung; Baik, Jiseok; Hong, Jeong-Min; Han, Jeong Yeol; Lee, Heon Keun; Chung, Young-Kyun; Sohn, Ju-Tae

2015-01-01

We investigated the effect of Lipofundin MCT/LCT and Intralipid on acetylcholine-induced nitric oxide- (NO-) mediated relaxation in rat aorta to determine which lipid emulsion (LE) is more potent in terms of inhibition of NO-induced relaxation. Dose-response curves of responses induced by acetylcholine, the calcium ionophore A23187, and sodium nitroprusside were generated using isolated rat aorta with or without LE. The effect of Lipofundin MCT/LCT on acetylcholine-induced endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was investigated using western blotting. Lipofundin MCT/LCT (0.1 and 0.2%) attenuated acetylcholine-induced relaxation in endothelium-intact aorta with or without tiron, whereas 0.2% Intralipid only inhibited relaxation. Lipofundin MCT/LCT inhibited relaxation induced by the calcium ionophore A23187 and sodium nitroprusside in endothelium-intact aorta, but Lipofundin MCT/LCT had no effect on sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxation in the endothelium-denuded aorta. Combined pretreatment with l-arginine plus Lipofundin MCT/LCT increased acetylcholine-induced maximal relaxation in endothelium-intact aorta compared with Lipofundin MCT/LCT alone. L-Arginine attenuated Lipofundin MCT/LCT-mediated inhibition of acetylcholine-induced eNOS phosphorylation in HUVECs. Taken together, Lipofundin MCT/LCT attenuated acetylcholine-induced NO-mediated relaxation via an inhibitory effect on the endothelium including eNOS, which is proximal to activation of guanylyl cyclase.

Microsurgical Bypass Training Rat Model, Part 1: Technical Nuances of Exposure of the Aorta and Iliac Arteries.

PubMed

Tayebi Meybodi, Ali; Lawton, Michael T; Mokhtari, Pooneh; Yousef, Sonia; Gandhi, Sirin; Benet, Arnau

2017-11-01

Animal models using rodents are frequently used for practicing microvascular anastomosis-an essential technique in cerebrovascular surgery. However, safely and efficiently exposing rat's target vessels is technically difficult. Such difficulty may lead to excessive hemorrhage and shorten animal survival. This limits the ability to perform multiple anastomoses on a single animal and may increase the overall training time and costs. We report our model for microsurgical bypass training in rodents in 2 consecutive articles. In part 1, we describe the technical nuances for a safe and efficient exposure of the rat abdominal aorta and common iliac arteries (CIAs) for bypass. Over a 2-year period, 50 Sprague-Dawley rats underwent inhalant anesthesia for practicing microvascular anastomosis on the abdominal aorta and CIAs. Lessons learned regarding the technical nuances of vessel exposure were recorded. Several technical nuances were important for avoiding intraoperative bleeding and preventing animal demise while preparing an adequate length of vessels for bypass. The most relevant technical nuances include (1) generous subcutaneous dissection; (2) use of cotton swabs for the blunt dissection of the retroperitoneal fat; (3) combination of sharp and blunt dissection to isolate the aorta and iliac arteries from the accompanying veins; (4) proper control of the posterior branches of the aorta; and (5) efficient division and mobilization of the left renal pedicle. Applying the aforementioned technical nuances enables safe and efficient preparation of the rat abdominal aorta and CIAs for microvascular anastomosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Allopurinol prevents nitroglycerin-induced tolerance in rat thoracic aorta.

PubMed

Azarmi, Yadollah; Babaei, Hossein; Alizadeh, Fatemeh; Gharebageri, Afsaneh; Fouladi, Daniel F; Nikkhah, Elhameh

2014-02-01

Xanthine oxidase is an important source of reactive oxygen species; so, it may play a role in the pathogenesis of endothelium dysfunction and its consequences. Allopurinol, a purine analog, is a famous xanthine oxidase inhibitor. This study aimed to investigate possible effects of allopurinol on nitroglycerin tolerance, vasoconstriction, and vasorelaxation in rat aortic ring. Using thoracic aortic rings obtained from male Wistar rats, the effect of allopurinol was examined on nitroglycerin-induced tolerance. In addition, changes of vasoconstriction (by using KCl and phenylephrine) and vasorelaxation (by using carbachol, sodium nitroprusside, and nitroglycerin) were also measured and compared between tissues treated with and without allopurinol. All 3 concentrations of allopurinol (50, 100, and 150 μM) significantly acted against the development of nitroglycerin-induced tolerance in comparison with controls. In terms of vasoconstriction and vasorelaxation, the effect of allopurinol was significant only on carbachol-induced (endothelium related) vasorelaxation in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, although allopurinol had no significant effect on the contractile response of the aorta, in accord with the previous data, it significantly intensified endothelium-dependent vasodilation. The inhibitory effect of allopurinol against the development of nitrate-induced tolerance may suggest its clinical benefit and is worth to be studied more extensively.

Natural history of the ascending aorta after aortic valve replacement: risk factor analysis for late aortic complications after aortic valve replacement.

PubMed

Tsutsumi, Koji; Hashizume, Kenichi; Inoue, Yoshito

2016-05-01

The purpose of this study was to clarify the natural history of the ascending aorta and to identify risk factors for late ascending aortic events after first isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR). A total of 287 patients undergoing AVR were enrolled. The patients were categorized into two groups based on the diameter of the ascending aorta at the time of AVR, as determined by computed tomography: Group A (n = 233) was defined as an ascending aortic diameter <40 mm, and Group B (n = 54) was defined as an ascending aortic diameter ≥40 mm. The mean follow-up period was 7.6 years. The baseline diameter of the ascending aorta was 31.4 ± 4.8 mm in Group A and 44.7 ± 4.2 mm in Group B. These values increased to 35.9 ± 7.4 mm in Group A and 50.1 ± 7.3 mm in Group B during the follow-up period (P < 0.001). Ten patients had acute type A aortic dissection (Group A: 1 patient vs. Group B: 9 patients; P < 0.001), and three patients had enlargement of the ascending aorta to ≥55 mm in diameter (Group A: 1 patient vs. Group B: 2 patients). Multivariate analysis revealed that the baseline ascending aortic diameter was the only significant risk factor for developing late ascending aortic events (P < 0.001). AVR alone may not prevent further enlargement of the ascending aorta. An ascending aorta ≥40 mm in diameter at the time of AVR increased the risk of late ascending aortic events.

Spiral blood flow in aorta-renal bifurcation models.

PubMed

Javadzadegan, Ashkan; Simmons, Anne; Barber, Tracie

2016-01-01

The presence of a spiral arterial blood flow pattern in humans has been widely accepted. It is believed that this spiral component of the blood flow alters arterial haemodynamics in both positive and negative ways. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of spiral flow on haemodynamic changes in aorta-renal bifurcations. In this regard, a computational fluid dynamics analysis of pulsatile blood flow was performed in two idealised models of aorta-renal bifurcations with and without flow diverter. The results show that the spirality effect causes a substantial variation in blood velocity distribution, while causing only slight changes in fluid shear stress patterns. The dominant observed effect of spiral flow is on turbulent kinetic energy and flow recirculation zones. As spiral flow intensity increases, the rate of turbulent kinetic energy production decreases, reducing the region of potential damage to red blood cells and endothelial cells. Furthermore, the recirculation zones which form on the cranial sides of the aorta and renal artery shrink in size in the presence of spirality effect; this may lower the rate of atherosclerosis development and progression in the aorta-renal bifurcation. These results indicate that the spiral nature of blood flow has atheroprotective effects in renal arteries and should be taken into consideration in analyses of the aorta and renal arteries.

Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Activity is Associated with Divergent Regulation of Calponin-1 in Conductance and Resistance Arteries in Hypertension-induced Early Vascular Dysfunction and Remodelling.

PubMed

Parente, Juliana M; Pereira, Camila A; Oliveira-Paula, Gustavo H; Tanus-Santos, José E; Tostes, Rita C; Castro, Michele M

2017-10-01

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 participates in hypertension-induced maladaptive vascular remodelling by degrading extra- and intracellular proteins. The consequent extracellular matrix rearrangement and phenotype switch of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) lead to increased cellular migration and proliferation. As calponin-1 degradation by MMP-2 may lead to VSMC proliferation during hypertension, the hypothesis of this study is that increased MMP-2 activity contributes to early hypertension-induced maladaptive remodelling in conductance and resistance arteries via regulation of calponin-1. The main objective was to analyse whether MMP-2 exerts similar effects on the structure and function of the resistance and conductance arteries during early hypertension. Two-kidney, one-clip (2K-1C) hypertensive male rats and corresponding controls were treated with doxycycline (30 mg/kg/day) or water until reaching one week of hypertension. Systolic blood pressure was increased in 2K-1C rats, and doxycycline did not reduce it. Aortas and mesenteric arteries were analysed. MMP-2 activity and expression were increased in both arteries, and doxycycline reduced it. Significant hypertrophic remodelling and VSMC proliferation were observed in aortas but not in mesenteric arteries of 2K-1C rats. The contractility of mesenteric arteries to phenylephrine was increased in 2K-1C rats, and doxycycline prevented this alteration. The potency of phenylephrine to contract aortas of 2K-1C rats was increased, and doxycycline decreased it. Whereas calponin-1 expression was increased in 2K-1C mesenteric arteries, calponin-1 was reduced in aortas. Doxycycline treatment reverted changes in calponin-1 expression. MMP-2 contributes to hypertrophic remodelling in aortas by decreasing calponin-1 levels, which may result in VSMC proliferation. On the other hand, MMP-2-dependent increased calponin-1 in mesenteric arteries may contribute to vascular hypercontractility in 2K-1C rats. Divergent regulation of calponin-1 by MMP-2 may be an important mechanism that leads to maladaptive vascular effects in hypertension. © 2017 Nordic Association for the Publication of BCPT (former Nordic Pharmacological Society).

Kefiran reduces atherosclerosis in rabbits fed a high cholesterol diet.

PubMed

Uchida, Masashi; Ishii, Itsuko; Inoue, Chika; Akisato, Yoshie; Watanabe, Kenta; Hosoyama, Saori; Toida, Toshihiko; Ariyoshi, Noritaka; Kitada, Mitsukazu

2010-09-30

Kefiran is an exopolysaccharide produced by Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens, and has been proposed to have many health-promoting properties. We investigated the antiatherogenic effect of kefiran on rabbits fed a high-cholesterol diet. Male New Zealand White rabbits were fed a 0.5% cholesterol diet without (control group, n = 7) or with kefiran (kefiran group, n = 8) for eight weeks. The aorta was analyzed by histochemistry and atherosclerotic lesions were quantified. Lipids and sugars in serum were measured. Foam cell formation of RAW264.7 by βVLDL derived from both groups of rabbits was also investigated. Cholesterol, triglyceride and phospholipids levels of serum and lipoprotein fractions were not significantly different between these groups. Atherosclerotic lesions of the aorta in the kefiran group were statistically lower than those of the control group, with marked differences in the abdominal aorta. T-lymphocytes were not detectable in the aorta of the kefiran group. Cholesterol contents in stools were almost identical in both groups. Cholesterol content in the liver of the kefiran group was statistically lower than in the control group. Galactose content of βVLDL derived from the kefiran group was higher, and the lipid peroxidation level was much lower than in the control group. RAW264.7 macrophages treated with βVLDL from the kefiran group showed a more spherical shape and accumulated statistically lower cholesterol than macrophages treated with βVLDL from the control group. Orally derived kefiran is absorbed in the blood. Kefiran prevents the onset and development of atherosclerosis in hypercholesterolemic rabbits by anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant actions.

Coarctation of the aorta in Noonan-like syndrome with loose anagen hair.

PubMed

Zmolikova, Michaela; Puchmajerova, Alena; Hecht, Petr; Lebl, Jan; Trkova, Marie; Krepelova, Anna

2014-05-01

Noonan-like syndrome with loose anagen hair (NS/LAH; OMIM 607721) due to a missense mutation c.4A>G in SHOC2 predicting p.Ser2Gly has been described recently. This condition is characterized by facial features similar to Noonan syndrome, reduced growth, cardiac defects, and typical abnormal hair. We report on a patient with molecularly confirmed NS/LAH with coarctation of the aorta. The girl was precipitously born at 37 weeks of gestation at home and required a 3-min resuscitation. Increased nuchal translucency and aortic coarctation with a small ventricular septal defect were described prenatally, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was detected postnatally. The patient presented with facial dysmorphism typical of NS with redundant skin over the nape and on the back. Short stature, relative macrocephaly, failure-to-thrive together with dystrophic appearance, developmental delay mainly in motor milestones and very thin, sparse, slow-growing hair occurred a few weeks after birth. Endocrine evaluation revealed low IGF-1 levels and borderline growth hormone deficiency. Growth hormone therapy started at 16 months had a partial effect and prevented further growth deterioration. Coarctation of the aorta is not a typical heart defect among individuals with NS/LAH, therefore our observation extends the phenotypic spectrum of this disorder. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effect of atherothrombotic aorta on outcomes of total aortic arch replacement.

PubMed

Okada, Kenji; Omura, Atsushi; Kano, Hiroya; Inoue, Takeshi; Oka, Takanori; Minami, Hitoshi; Okita, Yutaka

2013-04-01

The effect of an atherothrombotic aorta on the short- and long-term outcomes of total aortic arch replacement, including postoperative neurologic deficits, remains unknown. We evaluated this relationship and also elucidated the synergistic effect of multiple other risk factors, in addition to an atherothrombotic aorta, on the neurologic outcome. A group of 179 consecutive patients undergoing total aortic arch replacement were studied. An atherothrombotic aorta was present in 34 patients (19%), more than moderate leukoaraiosis in 71 (39.7%), and significant extracranial carotid artery stenosis in 27 (15.1%). In-hospital deaths occurred in 2 patients, 1 (2.9%) of 34 patients with and 1 (0.7%) of 145 patients without an atherothrombotic aorta (P = .26). Permanent neurologic deficits occurred in 4 (2.2%) and transient neurologic deficits in 17 (9.5%) patients. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the risk factors for transient neurologic deficits were an atherothrombotic aorta (odds ratio, 4.4), extracranial carotid artery stenosis (odds ratio, 5.5), moderate/severe leukoaraiosis (odds ratio, 3.6), and cardiopulmonary bypass time (odds ratio, 1.02). To calculate the probability of transient neurologic deficits, the following equation was derived: probability of transient neurologic deficits = {1 + exp [7.276 - 1.489 (atherothrombotic aorta) - 1.285 (leukoaraiosis) - 1.701 (extracranial carotid artery stenosis) - 0.017 (cardiopulmonary bypass time)]}(-1). An exponential increase occurred in the probability of transient neurologic deficits with presence of an atherothrombotic aorta and other risk factors in relation to the cardiopulmonary bypass time. Survival at 3 years after surgery was significantly reduced in patients with vs without an atherothrombotic aorta (75.0% ± 8.8% vs 89.2% ± 3.1%, P = .01). Patients with an atherothrombotic aorta and associated preoperative comorbidities might be predisposed to adverse short- and long-term outcomes, including transient neurologic deficits. Copyright © 2013 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Dual Effects of Bisphosphonates on Ectopic Skin and Vascular Soft Tissue Mineralization versus Bone Microarchitecture in a Mouse Model of Generalized Arterial Calcification of Infancy

PubMed Central

Li, Qiaoli; Kingman, Joshua; Sundberg, John P.; Levine, Michael A.; Uitto, Jouni

2015-01-01

Generalized arterial calcification of infancy (GACI) is an intractable ectopic mineralization disorder caused by mutations in the ENPP1 gene resulting in reduced plasma inorganic pyrophosphate levels. We previously characterized the Enpp1asj mutant mouse as a model of GACI, and we have now explored the potential efficacy of bisphosphonates, non-hydrolyzable PPi analogs, in preventing ectopic mineralization in these mice. These mice were maintained on either basic diet (control) or diets containing etidronate or alendronate in three different concentrations (experimental). Considering low bioavailability of bisphosphonates when administered orally, subsequent studies tested the mice with subcutaneous injections of etidronate. The treatments were initiated at 4 weeks of age, and the degree of mineralization was assessed at 12 weeks of age by quantitation of calcium deposits in the muzzle skin containing dermal sheath of vibrissae and in aorta. We found that bisphosphonate treatments significantly reduced mineralization in skin and aorta. These changes in treated mice were accompanied with restoration of their bone microarchitecture, determined bymicrocomputed tomography. The inhibitory capacity of bisphosphonates, with mechanistic implications, was confirmed in a cell-based mineralization assay in vitro. Collectively, these results suggest that bisphosphonate treatment may be beneficial by a dual effect for preventing ectopic soft tissue mineralization while correcting decreased bone mineralization in GACI caused by ENPP1 mutations. PMID:26763447

Effect of the Trendelenburg position on the distribution of arterial air emboli in dogs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Butler, Bruce D.; Laine, Glen A.; Leiman, Basil C.; Warters, Dave; Kurusz, Mark

1988-01-01

The effect of Trendelenburg position (TP) on the distribution of arterial air emboli in dogs was examined in a two-part investigation. In the first part, the effects of the bubble size and the vessel angle on the bubble velocity and the direction of flow were investigated in vitro, using a simulated carotid artery preparation. It was found that larger bubbles increased in velocity in the same direction as the blood flow at 0-, 10-, and 30-deg vessel angles, and decreased when the vessel was positioned at 90 deg. Smaller bubbles did not change velocity from 0 to 30 deg, but acted to increase the velocity, in the same direction as the flood flow, at 90 deg. The second series of experiments examined the effect of 0 to 30 deg TP on carotid-artery distribution of gas bubbles injected into the left ventricle or ascending aorta of anesthetized dogs. It was found that, regardless of the degree of the TP, the bubbles passed into the carotid artery simultaneously with the passage into the abdominal aorta. It is concluded that the TP does not prevent arterial bubbles from reaching the brain.

IGF-1 receptor cleavage in hypertension.

PubMed

Cirrik, Selma; Schmid-Schönbein, Geert W

2018-06-01

Increased protease activity causes receptor dysfunction due to extracellular cleavage of different membrane receptors in hypertension. The vasodilatory effects of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) are decreased in hypertension. Therefore, in the present study the association of an enhanced protease activity and IGF-1 receptor cleavage was investigated using the spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and their normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) controls (n = 4). Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activities were determined using gelatin zymography on plasma and different tissue samples. WKY aorta rings were incubated in WKY or SHR plasma with or without MMP inhibitors, and immunohistochemistry was used to quantify the densities of the alpha and beta IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) subunits and to determine receptor cleavage. The pAkt and peNOS levels in the aorta were investigated using immunoblotting as a measure of IGF-IR function. Increased MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities were detected in plasma and peripheral tissues of SHRs. IGF-1R beta labeling was similar in both groups without plasma incubation, but the fraction of immunolabeled area for IGF-1R alpha was lower in the endothelial layer of the SHR aorta (p < 0.05). A 24-h incubation of WKY aorta with SHR plasma did not affect the IGF-1R beta labeling density, but reduced the IGF-1R alpha labeling density in the endothelium (p < 0.05). MMP inhibitors prevented this decrease (p < 0.01). Western blot analyses revealed that the pAkt and peNOS levels under IGF-1-stimulated and -unstimulated conditions were lower in SHRs (p < 0.05). A reduced IGF-1 cellular response in the aorta was associated with the decrease in the IGF-1R alpha subunit in the SHR hypertension model. Our results indicate that MMP-dependent receptor cleavage contributed to the reduced IGF-1 response in SHRs.

The structure of the conus arteriosus of the sturgeon (Acipenser naccarii) heart: II. The myocardium, the subepicardium, and the conus-aorta transition.

PubMed

Icardo, José M; Colvee, Elvira; Cerra, Maria C; Tota, Bruno

2002-12-01

Sturgeons constitute a family of living "fossil" fish whose heart is related to that of other ancient fish and the elasmobranches. We have undertaken a systematic study of the structure of the sturgeon heart aimed at unraveling the relationship between the heart structure and the adaptive evolutionary changes. In a related paper, data were presented on the conus valves and the subendocardium. Here, the structure of the conus myocardium, the subepicardial tissue, and the conus-aorta transition were studied by conventional light, transmission, and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, actin localization by fluorescent phalloidin was used. The conus myocardium is organized into bundles whose spatial organization changes along the conus length. The variable orientation of the myocardial cell bundles may be effective in emptying the conus lumen during contraction and in preventing reflux of blood. Myocardial cell bundles are separated by loose connective tissue that contains collagen and elastin fibers, vessels, and extremely flat cells separating the cell bundles and enclosing blood vessels and collagen fibers. The ultrastructure of the myocardial cells was found to be very similar to that of other fish groups, suggesting that it is largely conservative. The subepicardium is characterized by the presence of nodular structures that contain lympho-hemopoietic (thymus-like) tissue in the young sturgeons and a large number of lymphocytes after the sturgeons reach sexual maturity. This tissue is likely implicated in the establishment and maintenance of the immune responses. The intrapericardial ventral aorta shows a middle layer of circumferentially oriented cells and internal and external layers with cells oriented longitudinally. Elastin fibers completely surround each smooth muscle cell, and the spaces between the different layers are occupied by randomly arranged collagen bundles. The intrapericardial segment of the ventral aorta is a true transitional segment whose structural characteristics are different from those of both the conus subendocardium and the rest of the ventral aorta. Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

An Abdominal Aorta Wall Extraction for Liver Cirrhosis Classification Using Ultrasonic Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayashi, Takaya; Fujita, Yusuke; Mitani, Yoshihiro; Hamamoto, Yoshihiko; Segawa, Makoto; Terai, Shuji; Sakaida, Isao

2011-06-01

We propose a method to extract an abdominal aorta wall from an M-mode image. Furthermore, we propose the use of a Gaussian filter in order to improve image quality. The experimental results show that the Gaussian filter is effective in the abdominal aorta wall extraction.

Differential Stiffening between the Abdominal and Thoracic Aorta: Effect of Salt Loading in Stroke-Prone Hypertensive Rats.

PubMed

Lindesay, George; Bézie, Yvonnick; Ragonnet, Christophe; Duchatelle, Véronique; Dharmasena, Chandima; Villeneuve, Nicole; Vayssettes-Courchay, Christine

2018-06-08

Central artery stiffening is recognized as a cardiovascular risk. The effects of hypertension and aging have been shown in human and animal models but the effect of salt is still controversial. We studied the effect of a high-salt diet on aortic stiffness in salt-sensitive spontaneously hypersensitive stroke-prone rats (SHRSP). Distensibility, distension, and β-stiffness were measured at thoracic and abdominal aortic sites in the same rats, using echotracking recording of the aortic diameter coupled with blood pressure (BP), in SHRSP-salt (5% salted diet, 5 weeks), SHRSP, and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Hemodynamic parameters were measured at BP matched to that of WKY. Histological staining and immunohistochemistry were used for structural analysis. Hemodynamic isobaric parameters in SHRSP did not differ from WKY and only those from the abdominal aorta of SHRSP-salt presented decreased distensibility and increased stiffness compared with WKY and SHRSP. The abdominal and thoracic aortas presented similar thickening, increased fibrosis, and remodeling with no change in collagen content. SHRSP-salt presented a specific increased elastin disarray at the abdominal aorta level but a decrease in elastin content in the thoracic aorta. This study demonstrates the pro-stiffening effect of salt in addition to hypertension; it shows that only the abdominal aorta presents a specific pressure-independent stiffening, in which elastin disarray is likely a key mechanism. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Protection against atherogenesis with the polymer drag-reducing agent Separan AP-30.

PubMed

Faruqui, F I; Otten, M D; Polimeni, P I

1987-03-01

The inhibitory effect of Separan AP-30, an anionic polyacrylamide, on atherosclerotic plaque formation in aortas of rabbits on a high (2%) cholesterol diet was tested over a period extending from 37 to 170 days. Atherogenesis was quantified morphometrically by application of a computer-assisted image analysis of histologic cross sections of the aorta. The area of vessel wall-atheroma interface, fraction of lumen occluded, and other indexes of atherogenesis were measured in each of 26 segments of aorta excised from the animals, half of which were administered injections (intravenous) of Separan three times a week. Regression analysis of the morphometric data indicates that the polyelectrolyte exerts a powerful antiatherogenic effect in all regions of the aorta, inhibiting the formation of plaque mass to less than half in the aortic arch and about one-fifth in the descending aorta as compared with the aortic plaque masses in untreated rabbits. Results are compatible with the suggestion that a novel hemodynamic principle in vivo, polymer drag reduction, might be effectively applied against atherosclerosis.

Treatment of symptomatic coral reef aorta with an uncovered stent graft.

PubMed

Bosanquet, D C; Wood, A; Williams, I M

2015-10-01

Coral reef aorta is a rare condition characterised by extreme calcific growths affecting the juxta and suprarenal aorta. It can cause symptoms due to visceral ischaemia, lower limb hypoperfusion, and distal embolisation. We present a case of a 61-year-old man with unresponsive hypertension, who was found to have an occluded right renal artery, and an extensive coral reef aorta with a marked pressure gradient across the lesion. Renal hypoperfusion secondary to aortic coral reef aorta was thought to be the cause for his hypertension. Endovascular placement of a balloon expandable uncovered stent resolved his hypertension within one month, with no adverse effects noted at subsequent follow-up. Endovascular treatment of coral reef aorta is technically possible and avoids a major vascular procedure. © The Author(s) 2014.

Salusin-α attenuates hepatic steatosis and atherosclerosis in high fat diet-fed low density lipoprotein receptor deficient mice.

PubMed

Tang, Kun; Wang, Fei; Zeng, Yi; Chen, XueMeng; Xu, XiaoLe

2018-07-05

Salusin-α is an endogenous bioactive peptide and likely to prevent atherosclerosis. But its protective effect against atherosclerosis in vivo remains poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to determine the potential effects of salusin-α on atherosclerosis and its associated metabolic disorders in high fat diet (HFD)-fed low density lipoprotein receptor deficient (LDLr -/- ) mice, and also explore the possible underlying mechanisms involved. Our data showed that after 12 weeks treatment, salusin-α ameliorated HFD-induced weight gain, hyperlipidemia, and serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Salusin-α suppressed HFD-induced hepatic steatosis and regulated gene expression of fatty acid synthase, acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase-α, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α, camitine palmitoyltransferase-1α and CYP7A1 in liver. Salusin-α reduced atherosclerotic plaque area and macrophage foam cell formation. Salusin-α prevented hepatic and aortic inflammation as evidenced by the reduced macrophage recruitment and mRNA expression of IL-6 and TNF-α in both liver and aorta. Salusin-α also reduced hepatic and aortic oxidative stress by normalizing activities of antioxidant enzymes in liver and suppressing reactive oxygen species generation and protein expressions of NADPH-oxidase (NOX) 2 and NOX4 in both liver and aorta. Our present data suggest that salusin-α could reduce hepatic steatosis and atherosclerosis via its pleiotropic effects, including amelioration of lipid profiles, regulation of some key molecules involved in lipid metabolism in liver, anti-oxidative effect and anti-inflammatory action. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mechanical Characterization and Material Modeling of Diabetic Aortas in a Rabbit Model.

PubMed

Tong, Jianhua; Yang, F; Li, X; Xu, X; Wang, G X

2018-03-01

Diabetes has been recognized as a major risk factor to cause macrovascular diseases and plays a key role in aortic wall remodeling. However, the effects of diabetes on elastic properties of aortas remain largely unknown and quantitative mechanical data are lacking. Thirty adult rabbits (1.6-2.2 kg) were collected and the type 1 diabetic rabbit model was induced by injection of alloxan. A total of 15 control and 15 diabetic rabbit (abdominal) aortas were harvested. Uniaxial and biaxial tensile tests were performed to measure ultimate tensile strength and to characterize biaxial mechanical behaviors of the aortas. A material model was fitted to the biaxial experimental data to obtain constitutive parameters. Histological and mass fraction analyses were performed to investigate the underlying microstructure and dry weight percentages of elastin and collagen in the control and the diabetic aortas. No statistically significant difference was found in ultimate tensile strength between the control and the diabetic aortas. Regarding biaxial mechanical responses, the diabetic aortas exhibited significantly lower extensibility and significantly higher tissue stiffness than the control aortas. Notably, tissue stiffening occurred in both circumferential and axial directions for the diabetic aortas; however, mechanical anisotropy does not change significantly. The material model was able to fit biaxial experimental data very well. Histology showed that a number of isolated foam cells were embedded in the diabetic aortas and hyperplasia of collagen was identified. The dry weight percentages of collagen within the diabetic aortas increased significantly as compared to the control aortas, whereas no significant change was found for that of elastin. Our data suggest that the diabetes impairs elastic properties and alters microstructure of the aortas and consequently, these changes may further contribute to complex aortic wall remodeling.

Recirculation zone length in renal artery is affected by flow spirality and renal-to-aorta flow ratio.

PubMed

Javadzadegan, Ashkan; Fulker, David; Barber, Tracie

2017-07-01

Haemodynamic perturbations such as flow recirculation zones play a key role in progression and development of renal artery stenosis, which typically originate at the aorta-renal bifurcation. The spiral nature of aortic blood flow, division of aortic blood flow in renal artery as well as the exercise conditions have been shown to alter the haemodynamics in both positive and negative ways. This study focuses on the combinative effects of spiral component of blood flow, renal-to-aorta flow ratio and the exercise conditions on the size and distribution of recirculation zones in renal branches using computational fluid dynamics technique. Our findings show that the recirculation length was longest when the renal-to-aorta flow ratio was smallest. Spiral flow and exercise conditions were found to be effective in reducing the recirculation length in particular in small renal-to-aorta flow ratios. These results support the hypothesis that in renal arteries with small flow ratios where a stenosis is already developed an artificially induced spiral flow within the aorta may decelerate the progression of stenosis and thereby help preserve kidney function.

Serum lipid profile and inflammatory markers in the aorta of cholesterol-fed rats supplemented with extra virgin olive oil, sunflower oils and oil-products.

PubMed

Katsarou, Ageliki I; Kaliora, Andriana C; Papalois, Apostolos; Chiou, Antonia; Kalogeropoulos, Nick; Agrogiannis, George; Andrikopoulos, Nikolaos K

2015-01-01

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) major and minor component anti-inflammatory effect on aorta was evaluated; Wistar rats were fed (9 weeks) on either a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) or a HCD supplemented with oils, i.e. EVOO, sunflower oil (SO), high-oleic sunflower oil (HOSO), or oil-products modified to their phenolic content, i.e. phenolics deprived-EVOO [EVOO(-)], SO enriched with the EVOO phenolics [SO(+)], HOSO enriched with the EVOO phenolics [HOSO(+)]. HCD induced dyslipidemia and resulted in higher aorta adhesion molecules levels at euthanasia. Groups receiving EVOO, EVOO(-), HOSO, HOSO(+) presented higher serum TC and LDL-c levels compared to cholesterol-fed rats; attenuation of aorta E-selectin levels was also observed. In EVOO/EVOO(-) groups, aorta vascular endothelial adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) was lower compared to HCD animals. SO/SO(+) diets had no effect on endothelial dysfunction amelioration. Overall, our results suggest that major and/or minor EVOO constituents improve aorta E-selectin and VCAM-1, while serum lipids do not benefit.

Elastic properties of the young aorta: ex vivo perfusion experiments in a porcine model.

PubMed

Krüger, Tobias; Grigoraviciute, Akvile; Veseli, Kujtim; Schibilsky, David; Wendel, Hans P; Schneider, Wilke; Schlensak, Christian

2015-08-01

To investigate the regional and directional compliance/distensibility of the healthy aorta. Complete fresh porcine aortas (n = 11) were perfused ex vivo under defined haemodynamic parameters using a custom-made pulse duplicator. Both circumferential and longitudinal compliance were measured optically. The pulse duplicator was able to perfuse the entire aorta with arbitrary haemodynamic parameters, generating a physiological pulse curve. Aortic compliance is pressure dependent, as we observed a linear relationship between pressure and distension in the range of 5-200 mmHg; however, above 200 mmHg, the porcine aorta behaved in an inelastic manner. Circumferential compliance was highest in the ascending aorta (24%/100 mmHg) but significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in both the arch (18%/100 mmHg) and the descending aorta (15%/100 mmHg). Longitudinal compliance was highest in the ascending aorta and clearly exceeded circumferential compliance. Compliance was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the outer curvatures of the ascending aorta and the aortic arch compared with the compliance of the inner curvature at these locations (30%/100 vs 23%/100 mmHg in the ascending aorta and 20%/100 vs 9%/100 mmHg in the arch, respectively). Longitudinal compliance of the ascending aorta, particularly the outer curvature, is predominantly responsible for the 'Windkessel effect'. Pathological changes such as elongation and pronounced angulation of the ascending aorta increase stress on the outer curvature and may be important factors in the development of aortic dissection. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Glutathione-S-transferase P protects against endothelial dysfunction induced by exposure to tobacco smoke.

PubMed

Conklin, Daniel J; Haberzettl, Petra; Prough, Russell A; Bhatnagar, Aruni

2009-05-01

Exposure to tobacco smoke impairs endothelium-dependent arterial dilation. Reactive constituents of cigarette smoke are metabolized and detoxified by glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs). Although polymorphisms in GST genes are associated with the risk of cancer in smokers, the role of these enzymes in regulating the cardiovascular effects of smoking has not been studied. The P isoform of GST (GSTP), which catalyzes the conjugation of electrophilic molecules in cigarette smoke such as acrolein, was expressed in high abundance in the mouse lung and aorta. Exposure to tobacco smoke for 3 days (5 h/day) decreased total plasma protein. These changes were exaggerated in GSTP(-/-) mice. Aortic rings isolated from tobacco smoke-exposed GSTP(-/-) mice showed greater attenuation of ACh-evoked relaxation than those from GSTP(+/+) mice. The lung, plasma, and aorta of mice exposed to tobacco smoke or acrolein (for 5 h) accumulated more acrolein-adducted proteins than those tissues of mice exposed to air, indicating that exposure to tobacco smoke results in the systemic delivery of acrolein. Relative to GSTP(+/+) mice, modification of some proteins by acrolein was increased in the aorta of GSTP(-/-) mice. Aortic rings prepared from GSTP(-/-) mice that inhaled acrolein (1 ppm, 5 h/day for 3 days) or those exposed to acrolein in an organ bath showed diminished ACh-induced arterial relaxation more strongly than GSTP(+/+) mice. Acrolein-induced endothelial dysfunction was prevented by pretreatment of the aorta with N-acetylcysteine. These results indicate that GSTP protects against the endothelial dysfunction induced by tobacco smoke exposure and that this protection may be related to the detoxification of acrolein or other related cigarette smoke constituents.

Effect of exercise on hemodynamic conditions in the abdominal aorta.

PubMed

Taylor, C A; Hughes, T J; Zarins, C K

1999-06-01

The beneficial effect of exercise in the retardation of the progression of cardiovascular disease is hypothesized to be caused, at least in part, by the elimination of adverse hemodynamic conditions, including flow recirculation and low wall shear stress. In vitro and in vivo investigations have provided qualitative and limited quantitative information on flow patterns in the abdominal aorta and on the effect of exercise on the elimination of adverse hemodynamic conditions. We used computational fluid mechanics methods to examine the effects of simulated exercise on hemodynamic conditions in an idealized model of the human abdominal aorta. A three-dimensional computer model of a healthy human abdominal aorta was created to simulate pulsatile aortic blood flow under conditions of rest and graded exercise. Flow velocity patterns and wall shear stress were computed in the lesion-prone infrarenal aorta, and the effects of exercise were determined. A recirculation zone was observed to form along the posterior wall of the aorta immediately distal to the renal vessels under resting conditions. Low time-averaged wall shear stress was present in this location, along the posterior wall opposite the superior mesenteric artery and along the anterior wall between the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries. Shear stress temporal oscillations, as measured with an oscillatory shear index, were elevated in these regions. Under simulated light exercise conditions, a region of low wall shear stress and high oscillatory shear index remained along the posterior wall immediately distal to the renal arteries. Under simulated moderate exercise conditions, all the regions of low wall shear stress and high oscillatory shear index were eliminated. This numeric investigation provided detailed quantitative data on the effect of exercise on hemodynamic conditions in the abdominal aorta. Our results indicated that moderate levels of lower limb exercise are necessary to eliminate the flow reversal and regions of low wall shear stress in the abdominal aorta that exist under resting conditions. The lack of flow reversal and increased wall shear stress during exercise suggest a mechanism by which exercise may promote arterial health, namely with the elimination of adverse hemodynamic conditions.

Role of peroxynitrite and poly (ADP-ribosyl) synthetase activation in cardiovascular derangement induced by zymosan in the rat.

PubMed

Cuzzocrea, S; Zingarelli, B; Caputi, A P

1998-01-01

Peritoneal administration of zymosan in the rat induced a severe inflammatory process characterised by an increase in the plasma levels of nitrite and nitrate, stable metabolites of nitric oxide (NO) and in the levels of peroxynitrite, as measured by the oxidation of the fluorescent dye dihydrorhodamine 123, at 18 hours zymosan challenge. Immunohistochemical examination demonstrated a marked increase in the immunoreactivity to nitrotyrosine, a specific "footprint" of peroxynitrite, in the aorta of zymosan-shocked rats. In ex vivo experiments, thoracic aorta rings of zymosan-treated rats showed a reduced contraction to noradrenaline and reduced responsiveness to the relaxant effect to acetylcholine (vascular hyporeactivity and endothelial dysfunction, respectively). Treatment of zymosan-shocked rats with 3-aminobenzamide or Nicotinamide, inhibitors of poly ADP-ribosil synthetase (PARS) activity reduced the production of peroxynitrite and significantly prevented the cardiovascular dysfunction. Our data suggest that peroxynitrite and PARS activation play a role in the zymosan-induced cardiovascular derangements in the rat.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Evolving Controversies and Uncertainties.

PubMed

Carino, Davide; Sarac, Timur P; Ziganshin, Bulat A; Elefteriades, John A

2018-06-01

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is defined as a permanent dilatation of the abdominal aorta that exceeds 3 cm. Most AAAs arise in the portion of abdominal aorta distal to the renal arteries and are defined as infrarenal. Most AAAs are totally asymptomatic until catastrophic rupture. The strongest predictor of AAA rupture is the diameter. Surgery is indicated to prevent rupture when the risk of rupture exceeds the risk of surgery. In this review, we aim to analyze this disease comprehensively, starting from an epidemiological perspective, exploring etiology and pathophysiology, and concluding with surgical controversies. We will pursue these goals by addressing eight specific questions regarding AAA: (1) Is the incidence of AAA increasing? (2) Are ultrasound screening programs for AAA effective? (3) What causes AAA: Genes versus environment? (4) Animal models: Are they really relevant? (5) What pathophysiology leads to AAA? (6) Indications for AAA surgery: Are surgeons over-eager to operate? (7) Elective AAA repair: Open or endovascular? (8) Emergency AAA repair: Open or endovascular?

Effect of resveratrol and orchidectomy on the vasorelaxing influence of perivascular adipose tissue.

PubMed

Boydens, Charlotte; Pauwels, Bart; Van de Voorde, Johan

2016-04-01

Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) releases several adipo(cyto)kines. Some are vasoactive substances that elicit a net beneficial anticontractile effect. Resveratrol and testosterone are known to modulate adipo(cyto)kine release from adipose tissue and could therefore influence the anticontractile effect of PVAT. In vitro tension measurements were performed using thoracic aorta segments with and without adipose tissue from sham-operated or orchidectomized male Swiss mice. Concentration-response curves to norepinephrine (NOR) were constructed in the presence and absence of resveratrol (10 μM, 15 min) or the relaxant effect of resveratrol (10-100 μM) was investigated after inducing tone with NOR (5 μM). Aortas with PVAT displayed significantly attenuated contractions to NOR compared with aortas without PVAT. In aortas without PVAT, resveratrol (10 μM) significantly decreased NOR responses and elicited concentration-dependent (10-100 µM) relaxations. However, in aortas with adherent PVAT, resveratrol (10 μM) neither decreased NOR responses, nor did resveratrol (10-100 µM) induce arterial relaxations. The anticontractile effect of PVAT was less pronounced in the presence of resveratrol and unaltered by orchidectomy. Orchidectomy did not influence contractions induced by NOR. Orchidectomy does not modulate the anticontractile capacity of PVAT, while resveratrol decreases the vasorelaxing influence of PVAT. The positive effects associated with resveratrol addition are neutralized by the presence of PVAT. This is thought to result from a dual effect of resveratrol: (1) inhibition of the influence of vasodilatory adipo(cyto)kines and (2) a direct relaxant effect on the vascular smooth muscle. Overall, the beneficial relaxing effect of resveratrol is lost in mice thoracic aorta surrounded by PVAT.

Patent ductus arteriosus: patho-physiology, hemodynamic effects and clinical complications.

PubMed

Capozzi, Giovanbattista; Santoro, Giuseppe

2011-10-01

During fetal life, patent arterial duct diverts placental oxygenated blood from the pulmonary artery into the aorta by-passing lungs. After birth, decrease of prostacyclins and prostaglandins concentration usually causes arterial duct closure. This process may be delayed, or may even completely fail in preterm infants with arterial duct still remaining patent. If that happens, blood flow by-pass of the systemic circulation through the arterial duct results in pulmonary overflow and systemic hypoperfusion. When pulmonary flow is 50% higher than systemic flow, a hemodynamic "paradox" results, with an increase of left ventricular output without a subsequent increase of systemic output. Cardiac overload support neuro-humoral effects (activation of sympathetic nervous system and renin-angiotensin system) that finally promote heart failure. Moreover, increased pulmonary blood flow can cause vascular congestion and pulmonary edema. However, the most dangerous effect is cerebral under-perfusion due to diastolic reverse-flow and resulting in cerebral hypoxia. At last, blood flow decreases through the abdominal aorta, reducing perfusion of liver, gut and kidneys and may cause hepatic failure, renal insufficiency and necrotizing enterocolitis. Conclusions Large patent arterial duct may cause life-threatening multi-organ effects. In pre-term infant early diagnosis and timely effective treatment are cornerstones in the prevention of cerebral damage and long-term multi-organ failure.

Effects of aortic root motion on wall stress in the Marfan aorta before and after personalised aortic root support (PEARS) surgery.

PubMed

Singh, S D; Xu, X Y; Pepper, J R; Izgi, C; Treasure, T; Mohiaddin, R H

2016-07-05

Aortic root motion was previously identified as a risk factor for aortic dissection due to increased longitudinal stresses in the ascending aorta. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of aortic root motion on wall stress and strain in the ascending aorta and evaluate changes before and after implantation of personalised external aortic root support (PEARS). Finite element (FE) models of the aortic root and thoracic aorta were developed using patient-specific geometries reconstructed from pre- and post-PEARS cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) images in three Marfan patients. The wall and PEARS materials were assumed to be isotropic, incompressible and linearly elastic. A static load on the inner wall corresponding to the patients' pulse pressure was applied. Cardiovascular MR cine images were used to quantify aortic root motion, which was imposed at the aortic root boundary of the FE model, with zero-displacement constraints at the distal ends of the aortic branches and descending aorta. Measurements of the systolic downward motion of the aortic root revealed a significant reduction in the axial displacement in all three patients post-PEARS compared with its pre-PEARS counterparts. Higher longitudinal stresses were observed in the ascending aorta when compared with models without the root motion. Implantation of PEARS reduced the longitudinal stresses in the ascending aorta by up to 52%. In contrast, the circumferential stresses at the interface between the supported and unsupported aorta were increase by up to 82%. However, all peak stresses were less than half the known yield stress for the dilated thoracic aorta. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Endovascular treatment of symptomatic true-lumen collapse of the downstream aorta after open surgery for acute aortic dissection type A.

PubMed

Conzelmann, L O; Doemland, M; Weigang, E; Frieß, T; Schotten, S; Düber, C; Vahl, C F

2013-04-01

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the outcome of endovascular treatment of true-lumen collapse (TLC) of the downstream aorta after open surgery for acute aortic dissection type A (AADA). Retrospective, observational study with follow-up of 16 ± 7.6 months. From April 2010 to January 2012, 89 AADA-patients underwent aortic surgery. Out of these, computed tomography revealed a TLC of the downstream aorta in 13 patients (14.6%). They all received additional thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in consequence of malperfusion syndromes. In all 13 TLC-patients, dissection after AADA-surgery extended from the aortic arch to the abdominal aorta and malperfusion syndromes occurred. Remodeling of the true-lumen was achieved by TEVAR with complemental stent disposal in abdominal and iliac arteries in all cases. One patient died on the third postoperative day due to intracerebral hemorrhage. Another patient, who presented under severe cardiogenic shock died despite AADA-surgery and TEVAR-treatment. Thirty-day mortality was 15.4% in TLC-patients (N = 2/13). In the follow-up period, 3 patients required additional aortic stents after the emergency TEVAR procedures. After 20 weeks, a third patient died secondary to malperfusion due to false-lumen recanalization. Therefore, late mortality was 23.1%. After proximal aortic repair for AADA, early postoperative computed tomography should be demanded in all patients to exclude a TLC of the descending aorta. Mortality is still substantial in these patients despite instant TEVAR application. Thus, in case of TLC and malperfusion syndrome of the downstream aorta, TEVAR should be performed early to alleviate or even prevent ischemic injury.

Dihydromyricetin ameliorates atherosclerosis in LDL receptor deficient mice.

PubMed

Liu, Ting Ting; Zeng, Yi; Tang, Kun; Chen, XueMeng; Zhang, Wei; Xu, Xiao Le

2017-07-01

Dihydromyricetin, the most abundant flavonoid in Ampelopsis grossedentata, exerts numerous pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and lipid regulatory activities; however, its protective effect against atherosclerosis remains poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of dihydromyricetin on high fat diet (HFD)-induced atherosclerosis using LDL receptor deficient (LDLr -/- ) mice. Blood samples were collected for determination of serum lipid profiles, oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Histology, hepatic lipid content, quantification of atherosclerosis, assessment of oxidative stress and inflammation were performed on liver and aorta samples by molecular biology methods. The effects of dihydromyricetin on ox-LDL-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) dysfunction and foam cell formation were further studied. (1) Dihydromyricetin ameliorated hyperlipidemia, reduced serum ox-LDL, IL-6 and TNF-α levels in HFD-fed LDLr -/- mice. Moreover, (2) dihydromyricetin suppressed hepatic lipid accumulation and increased protein expressions of PPARα, LXRα and ABCA1. (3) It inhibited atherosclerotic lesion formation and favoured features of plaque stability. (4) Dihydromyricetin prevented hepatic and aortic inflammation as evidenced by the reduced IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expression; (5) it prevented hepatic and aortic oxidative stress by normalizing activities of antioxidant enzymes in the liver and suppressing reactive oxygen species generation and NOX2 protein expression in both liver and aorta; (6) it inhibited oxLDL-induced injury, monocytes adhesion and oxidative stress in HUVECs and (7) inhibited macrophage foam cell formation and enhanced cholesterol efflux. These findings suggest that dihydromyricetin could reduce atherosclerosis via its pleiotropic effects, including improvement of endothelial dysfunction, inhibition of macrophage foam cell formation, amelioration of lipid profiles, anti-inflammatory action and anti-oxidative effect. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Rock Tea extract (Jasonia glutinosa) relaxes rat aortic smooth muscle by inhibition of L-type Ca(2+) channels.

PubMed

Valero, Marta Sofía; Oliván-Viguera, Aida; Garrido, Irene; Langa, Elisa; Berzosa, César; López, Víctor; Gómez-Rincón, Carlota; Murillo, María Divina; Köhler, Ralf

2015-12-01

In traditional herbal medicine, Rock Tea (Jasonia glutinosa) is known for its prophylactic and therapeutic value in various disorders including arterial hypertension. However, the mechanism by which Rock Tea exerts blood pressure-lowering actions has not been elucidated yet. Our aim was to demonstrate vasorelaxing effects of Rock Tea extract and to reveal its possible action mechanism. Isometric myography was conducted on high-K+-precontracted rings from rat thoracic aorta and tested extracts at concentrations of 0.5-5 mg/ml. Whole-cell patch-clamp experiments were performed in rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (line A7r5) to determine blocking effects on L-type Ca(2+) channels. Rock Tea extract relaxed the aorta contracted by high [K+] concentration dependently with an EC50 of ≈2.4 mg/ml and produced ≈75 % relaxation at the highest concentration tested. The L-type Ca(2+) channel blocker, verapamil (10(-6) M), had similar effects. Rock Tea extract had no effect in nominally Ca(2+)-free high-K(+) buffer but significantly inhibited contractions to re-addition of Ca(2+). Rock Tea extract inhibited the contractions induced by the L-type Ca(2+) channel activator Bay K 8644 (10(-5) M) and by phenylephrine (10(-6) M). Rock Tea extract and Y-27632 (10(-6) M), Rho-kinase inhibitor, had similar effects and the respective effects were not additive. Patch-clamp experiments demonstrated that Rock Tea extract (2.5 mg/ml) virtually abolished L-type Ca(2+) currents in A7r5. We conclude that Rock Tea extract produced vasorelaxation of rat aorta and that this relaxant effect is mediated by inhibition of L-type Ca(2+) channels. Rock Tea extracts may be of phytomedicinal value for prevention and adjuvant treatment of hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.

The influence of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors on the aorta elastin metabolism in diet-induced hypercholesterolaemia in rabbits.

PubMed

Wojakowski, W; Gminski, J; Siemianowicz, K; Goss, M; Machalski, M

2001-03-01

Aortic elastin turnover is significantly accelerated in atherosclerosis, partly because of activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system caused by hypercholesterolaemia. We postulated that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) prevent the aortic elastin loss in experimental hypercholesterolaemia. Two doses of ACE-I (captopril, enalapril and quinapril) were used: a dose equivalent to that applied to human subjects and a dose 10 times higher. We found that the increase in serum and aortic elastolytic activity in cholesterol-fed rabbits was prevented by high-dose captopril. The elastin content in aorta homogenates from cholesterol-fed rabbits was significantly decreased. The higher dose of captopril, but no other ACE-I, prevented this decrease in aortic elastin content. In cholesterol-fed rabbits the elastin-bound calcium content was significantly elevated. The higher doses of captopril and enalapril lowered the elastin-bound calcium content. In serum and aortic homogenates of cholesterol-fed rabbits, ACE activity was elevated by 15% and 77%, respectively. Both doses of captopril, enalapril and quinapril prevented this cholesterol-induced increase in serum and aortic ACE activity. We conclude that: 1) administration of captopril at doses 10 times higher than those used in humans prevents hypercholesterolaemia increased aortic elastin loss. 2) higher doses of captopril and enalapril prevent the hypercholesterolaemia-induced increase in aortic elastin-bound calcium.

Transgenic overexpression of uncoupling protein 2 attenuates salt-induced vascular dysfunction by inhibition of oxidative stress.

PubMed

Ma, Shuangtao; Wang, Qiang; Zhang, Yan; Yang, Dachun; Li, De; Tang, Bing; Yang, Yongjian

2014-03-01

Ablation of uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) has been involved in the enhancement of salt sensitivity associated with increased superoxide level and decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. However, the role of overexpression of UCP2 in salt-induced vascular dysfunction remains elusive. UCP2 transgenic (TG) and wild-type (WT) mice were placed on either a normal-salt (NS, 0.5%) or a high-salt (HS, 8%) diet for 12 weeks. Blood pressure (BP) and hypotensive responses were measured, and the vascular tone, superoxide level, and NO bioavailability in aortas were measured in each group. The TG mice had increased expression and function of UCP2 in vascular smooth muscle cells. The acetylcholine (ACh)- and nitroglycerin (NTG)-induced hypotensive responses and aortic relaxations were significantly blunted in WT mice fed with an HS diet compared with an NS diet. These harmful effects were prevented in UCP2 TG mice. The impairments of ACh- and NTG-induced relaxation in aorta were inhibited by the endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) inhibitor L-NAME and mitochondrial antioxidant MitoQ, respectively. The HS intake led to a significant increase in superoxide production and a comparable decrease in NO bioavailability in aortas, and these effects were blunted in UCP2 TG mice. The expression of UCP2 was slightly increased in the HS group. However, the expression and phosphorylation of eNOS were not affected by an HS diet and overexpression of UCP2. These findings suggest that overexpression of UCP2 can ameliorate salt-induced vascular dysfunction. This beneficial effect of UCP2 is mediated by decreased superoxide and reserved NO bioavailability.

MicroRNA-590 Inhibits Lipoprotein Lipase Expression and Prevents Atherosclerosis in apoE Knockout Mice

PubMed Central

Lv, Yun-Cheng; Wang, Zong-Bao; Yao, Feng; Xie, Wei; Tan, Yu-Lin; Li, Liang; Zhang, Min; Lan, Gang; Gong, Duo; Cheng, Hai-Peng; Zhong, Hui-Juan; Liu, Dan; Huang, Chong; Li, Zhao-Xia; Zheng, Xi-Long; Yin, Wei-Dong; Tang, Chao-Ke

2015-01-01

Recent studies have suggested that miR-590 may play critical roles in cardiovascular disease. This study was designed to determine the effects of miR-590 on lipoprotein lipase (LPL) expression and development of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E knockout (apoE−/−) mice and explore the potential mechanisms. En face analysis of the whole aorta revealed that miR-590 significantly decreased aortic atherosclerotic plaque size and lipid content in apoE−/− mice. Double immunofluorescence staining in cross-sections of the proximal aorta showed that miR-590 agomir reduced CD68 and LPL expression in macrophages in atherosclerotic lesions. MiR-590 agomir down-regulated LPL mRNA and protein expression as analyzed by RT-qPCR and western blotting analyses, respectively. Consistently, miR-590 decreased the expression of CD36 and scavenger receptor A1 (SRA1) mRNA and protein. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)analysis confirmed that treatment with miR-590 agomir reduced lipid levels either in plasma orinabdominal cavity macrophages of apoE−/− mice. ELISA analysis showed that miR-590 agomir decreased plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), interleukin-1β (IL-1β)and interleukin-6 (IL-6). In contrast, treatment with miR-590 antagomir prevented or reversed these effects. Taken together, these results reveal a novel mechanism of miR-590 effects, and may provide new insights into the development of strategies for attenuating lipid accumulation and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion. PMID:26397958

The Synergistic Effect of Valsartan and LAF237 [(S)-1-[(3-Hydroxy-1-Adamantyl)Ammo]acetyl-2-Cyanopyrrolidine] on Vascular Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetic Mice

PubMed Central

Shen, Min; Sun, Dongdong; Li, Weijie; Liu, Bing; Wang, Shenxu; Zhang, Zheng; Cao, Feng

2012-01-01

Aim. To investigate the combination effects and mechanisms of valsartan (angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker) and LAF237 (DPP-IV inhibitor) on prevention against oxidative stress and inflammation injury in db/db mice aorta. Methods. Db/db mice (n = 40) were randomized to receive valsartan, LAF237, valsartan plus LAF237, or saline. Oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction in diabetic mice aorta were examined. Results. Valsartan or LAF237 pretreatment significantly increased plasma GLP-1 expression, reduced apoptosis of endothelial cells isolated from diabetic mice aorta. The expression of NAD(P)H oxidase subunits also significantly decreased resulting in decreased superoxide production and ICAM-1 (fold change: valsartan : 7.5 ± 0.7, P < 0.05; LAF237: 10.2 ± 1.7, P < 0.05), VCAM-1 (fold change: valsartan : 5.2 ± 1.2, P < 0.05; LAF237: 4.8 ± 0.6, P < 0.05), and MCP-1 (fold change: valsartan: 3.2 ± 0.6, LAF237: 4.7 ± 0.8; P < 0.05) expression. Moreover, the combination treatment with valsartan and LAF237 resulted in a more significant increase of GLP-1 expression. The decrease of the vascular oxidative stress and inflammation reaction was also higher than monotherapy with valsartan or LAF237. Conclusion. These data indicated that combination treatment with LAF237 and valsartan acts in a synergistic manner on vascular oxidative stress and inflammation in type 2 diabetic mice. PMID:22474415

Effects of Aortic Irregularities on the Blood Flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gutmark-Little, Iris; Prahl-Wittberg, Lisa; van Wyk, Stevin; Mihaescu, Mihai; Fuchs, Laszlo; Backeljauw, Philippe; Gutmark, Ephraim

2013-11-01

Cardiovascular defects characterized by geometrical anomalies of the aorta and its effect on the blood flow are investigated. The flow characteristics change with the aorta geometry and the rheological properties of the blood. Flow characteristics such as wall shear stress often play an important role in the development of vascular disease. In the present study, blood is considered to be non-Newtonian and is modeled using the Quemada model, an empirical model that is valid for different red blood cell loading. Three patient-specific aortic geometries are studied using Large Eddy Simulations (LES). The three geometries represent malformations that are typical in patients populations having a genetic disorder called Turner syndrome. The results show a highly complex flow with regions of recirculation that are enhanced in two of the three aortas. Moreover, blood flow is diverted, due to the malformations, from the descending aorta to the three side branches of the arch. The geometry having an elongated transverse aorta has larger areas of strong oscillatory wall shear stress.

17β-Estradiol prevents mesenteric injury induced by occlusion of the proximal descending aorta in male rats.

PubMed

Rocha de Sousa, Paulo Thales; Breithaupt-Faloppa, Ana Cristina; de Jesus Correia, Cristiano; Simão, Raif Restivo; Ferreira, Sueli Gomes; Fiorelli, Alfredo Inácio; Moreira, Luiz Felipe Pinho; Sannomiya, Paulina

2018-02-01

In surgical aortic repair or cardiac surgery with aorta occlusion, the occurrence of mesenteric ischemia and bowel injury has been associated with higher short-term mortality. The vascular protection of estrogens has been investigated and is mainly mediated by increasing the availability of nitric oxide (NO). Therefore, this study investigated the role of 17β-estradiol on visceral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury after descending aorta occlusion in male rats. Mesenteric ischemia was induced in male Wistar rats by placing a 2F Fogarty arterial embolectomy catheter (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, Calif) in the descending aorta, which remained occluded for 15 minutes, followed by reperfusion for up to 2 hours. Rats were divided into four groups: (1) rats that underwent surgical manipulation only (sham, n = 22); (2) rats that underwent I/R injury (n = 22); (3) rats treated with intravenous 17β-estradiol (280 μg/kg) 30 minutes before I/R (n = 22); (4) or at the beginning of reperfusion (n = 22). Intestinal histopathologic changes were evaluated by histomorphometry. Mesenteric microcirculatory alterations were assessed by laser Doppler flowmetry and intravital microscopy technique. Protein expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1, P-selectin, endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), and endothelin-1 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry; in addition, eNOS and endothelin-1 gene expressions were quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Serum cytokines were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Relative to the sham group, the I/R group exhibited a highly pronounced loss of intestine mucosal thickness, a reduction in mesenteric blood flow (P = .0203), increased migrated leukocytes (P < .05), and high mortality rate (35%). Treatment with 17β-estradiol before aorta occlusion preserved intestine mucosal thickness (P = .0437) and mesenteric blood flow (P = .0251), reduced the number of migrated leukocytes (P < .05), and prevented any fatal occurrence. Furthermore, 17β-estradiol downregulated the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (P = .0001) and P-selectin (P < .0001) on the endothelium and increased the protein expression of eNOS (P < .0001). The gene expressions of eNOS and endothelin-1 did not differ between the groups. The prophylactic treatment with 17β-estradiol showed better overall repercussions and was able to prevent any fatal occurrence, increase eNOS expression, thus preserving mesenteric perfusion and intestinal integrity, and reduce inflammation. Copyright © 2017 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of cross-linked chitosan iron (III) on vascular calcification in uremic rats.

PubMed

de Castro, Barbara Bruna Abreu; do Carmo, Wander Barros; de Albuquerque Suassuna, Paulo Giovani; Carminatti, Moises; Brito, Julia Bianchi; Dominguez, Wagner Vasques; de Oliveira, Ivone Braga; Jorgetti, Vanda; Custodio, Melani Ribeiro; Sanders-Pinheiro, Helady

2018-05-01

Cross-linked chitosan iron (III) is a chitin-derived polymer with a chelating effect on phosphorus, but it is untested in vascular calcification. We evaluated this compound's ability to reduce hyperphosphatemia and its effect on vascular calcification in uremic rats using an adenine-based, phosphorus-rich diet for seven weeks. We used a control group to characterize the uremia. Uremic rats were divided according the treatment into chronic kidney disease, CKD-Ch-Fe(III)CL (CKD-Ch), CKD-calcium carbonate, or CKD-sevelamer groups. We measured creatinine, phosphorus, calcium, alkaline phosphatase, phosphorus excretion fraction, parathyroid hormone, and fibroblast growth factor 23. Vascular calcification was assessed using the aortic calcium content, and a semi-quantitative analysis was performed using Von Kossa and hematoxylin-eosin staining. At week seven, rats in the chronic kidney disease group had higher creatinine, phosphorus, phosphorus excretion fraction, calcium, alkaline phosphatase, fibroblast growth factor 23, and aortic calcium content than those in the Control group. Treatments with cross-linked chitosan iron (III) and calcium carbonate prevented phosphorus increase (20%-30% reduction). The aortic calcium content was lowered by 88% and 85% in the CKD-Ch and CKD-sevelamer groups, respectively. The prevalence of vascular changes was higher in the chronic kidney disease and CKD-calcium carbonate (62.5%) groups than in the CKD-Ch group (37.5%). In conclusion, cross-linked chitosan iron (III) had a phosphorus chelating effect similar to calcium carbonate already available for clinical use, and prevented calcium accumulation in the aorta. Impact statement Vascular calcification (VC) is a common complication due to CKD-related bone and mineral disorder (BMD) and is characterized by deposition of calcium in vessels. Effective therapies are not yet available but new phosphorus chelators can prevent complications from CV. We tested the effect of chitosan, a new phosphorus chelator, on the VC of uremic animals. It has recently been proposed that chitosan treatment may be effective in the treatment of hyperphosphataemia. However, its action on vascular calcification has not been investigated yet. In this study, we demonstrated that chitosan reduced the calcium content in the aorta, suggesting that this may be a therapeutic approach in the treatment of hyperphosphatemia by preventing CV.

Regional and directional compliance of the healthy aorta: an ex vivo study in a porcine model.

PubMed

Krüger, Tobias; Veseli, Kujtim; Lausberg, Henning; Vöhringer, Luise; Schneider, Wilke; Schlensak, Christian

2016-07-01

To gain differential knowledge about the physiological compliance and wall strength of the different regions of the aorta, including the ascending aorta, arch and descending aorta in both the circumferential and longitudinal directions, and to generate a hypothesis on the pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to Type A aortic dissection. Fresh tissue specimens from 22 ex vivo porcine aortas were analysed on a tensile tester. Regional and directional compliance, failure stress and failure strain were recorded. Aortic compliance appeared as a linear function of the natural logarithm (ln) of wall stress. Compliance significantly decreased along the length of the aorta. In the ascending aorta, longitudinal compliance significantly (P = 0.003) exceeded circumferential compliance, and the outer curvature was more compliant than the inner curvature (P = 0.03). In the descending aorta, this relationship is reversed: the circumferential compliance exceeded the longitudinal compliance, and the outer aspect was more compliant (P = 0.003). The median circumferential failure stress of all aortic segments was in the range of 2000-2750 kPa, whereas the longitudinal failure stress in the ascending aorta and the arch had values of 750-1000 kPa, which were significantly lower (P < 0.05). Surprisingly, the longitudinal failure stress of the inner aspect of the descending aorta was extraordinarily high (2000 kPa). Failure strain, similar to compliance, was highest in the ascending aorta and decreased along the aorta. The aorta appears to be a complex organ with distinct regional and directional differences in compliance and wall strength that is designed to effectively absorb the kinetic energy of cardiac systole and to cushion the momentum of systolic impact. Under normotensive conditions and a preconditioned physiological morphology, the aortic wall works in the steep part of the logarithmic strain-stress function; under hypertensive conditions and pathological morphology, the wall reacts in an non-compliant manner. The high longitudinal compliance and low failure stress of the ascending aorta and subsequent pathological changes may be the main determinants of the recurrent patho-anatomy of Type A aortic dissection. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Regional and directional compliance of the healthy aorta: an ex vivo study in a porcine model†

PubMed Central

Krüger, Tobias; Veseli, Kujtim; Lausberg, Henning; Vöhringer, Luise; Schneider, Wilke; Schlensak, Christian

2016-01-01

OBJECTIVES To gain differential knowledge about the physiological compliance and wall strength of the different regions of the aorta, including the ascending aorta, arch and descending aorta in both the circumferential and longitudinal directions, and to generate a hypothesis on the pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to Type A aortic dissection. METHODS Fresh tissue specimens from 22 ex vivo porcine aortas were analysed on a tensile tester. Regional and directional compliance, failure stress and failure strain were recorded. RESULTS Aortic compliance appeared as a linear function of the natural logarithm (ln) of wall stress. Compliance significantly decreased along the length of the aorta. In the ascending aorta, longitudinal compliance significantly (P = 0.003) exceeded circumferential compliance, and the outer curvature was more compliant than the inner curvature (P = 0.03). In the descending aorta, this relationship is reversed: the circumferential compliance exceeded the longitudinal compliance, and the outer aspect was more compliant (P = 0.003). The median circumferential failure stress of all aortic segments was in the range of 2000–2750 kPa, whereas the longitudinal failure stress in the ascending aorta and the arch had values of 750–1000 kPa, which were significantly lower (P < 0.05). Surprisingly, the longitudinal failure stress of the inner aspect of the descending aorta was extraordinarily high (2000 kPa). Failure strain, similar to compliance, was highest in the ascending aorta and decreased along the aorta. CONCLUSION The aorta appears to be a complex organ with distinct regional and directional differences in compliance and wall strength that is designed to effectively absorb the kinetic energy of cardiac systole and to cushion the momentum of systolic impact. Under normotensive conditions and a preconditioned physiological morphology, the aortic wall works in the steep part of the logarithmic strain–stress function; under hypertensive conditions and pathological morphology, the wall reacts in an non-compliant manner. The high longitudinal compliance and low failure stress of the ascending aorta and subsequent pathological changes may be the main determinants of the recurrent patho-anatomy of Type A aortic dissection. PMID:26993474

A computational simulation of the effect of hybrid treatment for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm on the hemodynamics of abdominal aorta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wen, Jun; Yuan, Ding; Wang, Qingyuan; Hu, Yao; Zhao, Jichun; Zheng, Tinghui; Fan, Yubo

2016-03-01

Hybrid visceral-renal debranching procedures with endovascular repair have been proposed as an appealing technique to treat conventional thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA). This approach, however, still remained controversial because of the non-physiological blood flow direction of its retrograde visceral revascularization (RVR) which is generally constructed from the aortic bifurcation or common iliac artery. The current study carried out the numerical simulation to investigate the effect of RVR on the hemodynamics of abdominal aorta. The results indicated that the inflow sites for the RVR have great impact on the hemodynamic performance. When RVR was from the distal aorta, the perfusion to visceral organs were adequate but the flow flux to the iliac artery significantly decreased and a complex disturbed flow field developed at the distal aorta, which endangered the aorta at high risk of aneurysm development. When RVR was from the right iliac artery, the abdominal aorta was not troubled with low WSS or disturbed flow, but the inadequate perfusion to the visceral organs reached up to 40% and low WSS and flow velocity predominated appeared at the right iliac artery and the grafts, which may result in the stenosis in grafts and aneurysm growth on the host iliac artery.

Influence of antihypertensive drugs on aortic and coronary effects of Ang-(1-7) in pressure-overloaded rats

PubMed Central

Nunes, A.D.C.; Souza, A.P.S.; Macedo, L.M.; Alves, P.H.; Pedrino, G.R.; Colugnati, D.B.; Mendes, E.P.; Santos, R.A.S.; Castro, C.H.

2017-01-01

This study investigated the influence of antihypertensive drugs, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), AT1 receptor blockers (ARBs), voltage-gated L-type calcium channel blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), on the effects of angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] on aorta and coronary arteries from pressure-overloaded rats. Pressure overload was induced by abdominal aortic banding (AB). To evaluate the role of antihypertensive drugs on the effect of Ang-(1-7), AB male Wistar rats weighing 250–300 g were treated with vehicle or low doses (5 mg·kg-1·day-1, gavage) of losartan, captopril, amlodipine, or spironolactone. Isolated aortic rings and isolated perfused hearts under constant flow were used to evaluate the effect of Ang-(1-7) in thoracic aorta and coronary arteries, respectively. Ang-(1-7) induced a significant relaxation in the aorta of sham animals, but this effect was reduced in the aortas of AB rats. Chronic treatments with losartan, captopril or amlodipine, but not with spironolactone, restored the Ang-(1-7)-induced aorta relaxation in AB rats. The coronary vasodilatation evoked by Ang-(1-7) in sham rats was blunted in hypertrophic rats. Only the treatment with losartan restored the coronary vasodilatory effect of Ang-(1-7) in AB rat hearts. These data support a beneficial vascular effect of an association of Ang-(1-7) and some antihypertensive drugs. Thus, this association may have potential as a new therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular diseases. PMID:28355350

Influence of antihypertensive drugs on aortic and coronary effects of Ang-(1-7) in pressure-overloaded rats.

PubMed

Nunes, A D C; Souza, A P S; Macedo, L M; Alves, P H; Pedrino, G R; Colugnati, D B; Mendes, E P; Santos, R A S; Castro, C H

2017-03-23

This study investigated the influence of antihypertensive drugs, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), AT1 receptor blockers (ARBs), voltage-gated L-type calcium channel blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), on the effects of angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] on aorta and coronary arteries from pressure-overloaded rats. Pressure overload was induced by abdominal aortic banding (AB). To evaluate the role of antihypertensive drugs on the effect of Ang-(1-7), AB male Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g were treated with vehicle or low doses (5 mg·kg-1·day-1, gavage) of losartan, captopril, amlodipine, or spironolactone. Isolated aortic rings and isolated perfused hearts under constant flow were used to evaluate the effect of Ang-(1-7) in thoracic aorta and coronary arteries, respectively. Ang-(1-7) induced a significant relaxation in the aorta of sham animals, but this effect was reduced in the aortas of AB rats. Chronic treatments with losartan, captopril or amlodipine, but not with spironolactone, restored the Ang-(1-7)-induced aorta relaxation in AB rats. The coronary vasodilatation evoked by Ang-(1-7) in sham rats was blunted in hypertrophic rats. Only the treatment with losartan restored the coronary vasodilatory effect of Ang-(1-7) in AB rat hearts. These data support a beneficial vascular effect of an association of Ang-(1-7) and some antihypertensive drugs. Thus, this association may have potential as a new therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular diseases.

Lipid Emulsion Inhibits Vasodilation Induced by a Toxic Dose of Bupivacaine via Attenuated Dephosphorylation of Myosin Phosphatase Target Subunit 1 in Isolated Rat Aorta

PubMed Central

Ok, Seong-Ho; Byon, Hyo-Jin; Kwon, Seong-Chun; Park, Jungchul; Lee, Youngju; Hwang, Yeran; Baik, Jiseok; Choi, Mun-Jeoung; Sohn, Ju-Tae

2015-01-01

Lipid emulsions are widely used for the treatment of systemic toxicity that arises from local anesthetics. The goal of this in vitro study was to examine the cellular mechanism associated with the lipid emulsion-mediated attenuation of vasodilation induced by a toxic dose of bupivacaine in isolated endothelium-denuded rat aorta. The effects of lipid emulsion on vasodilation induced by bupivacaine, mepivacaine, and verapamil were assessed in isolated aorta precontracted with phenylephrine, the Rho kinase stimulant NaF, and the protein kinase C activator phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu). The effects of Rho kinase inhibitor Y-27632 on contraction induced by phenylephrine or NaF were assessed. The effects of bupivacaine on intracellular calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i) and tension induced by NaF were simultaneously measured. The effects of bupivacaine alone and lipid emulsion plus bupivacaine on myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (MYPT1) phosphorylation induced by NaF were examined in rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells. In precontracted aorta, the lipid emulsion attenuated bupivacaine-induced vasodilation but had no effect on mepivacaine-induced vasodilation. Y-27632 attenuated contraction induced by either phenylephrine or NaF. The lipid emulsion attenuated verapamil-induced vasodilation. Compared with phenylephrine-induced precontracted aorta, bupivacaine-induced vasodilation was slightly attenuated in NaF-induced precontracted aorta. The magnitude of the bupivacaine-induced vasodilation was higher than that of a bupivacaine-induced decrease in [Ca2+]i. Bupivacaine attenuated NaF-induced MYPT1 phosphorylation, whereas lipid emulsion pretreatment attenuated the bupivacaine-induced inhibition of MYPT1 phosphorylation induced by NaF. Taken together, these results suggest that lipid emulsions attenuate bupivacaine-induced vasodilation via the attenuation of inhibition of MYPT1 phosphorylation evoked by NaF. PMID:26664257

G Protein–Coupled Receptor Kinase 2, With β-Arrestin 2, Impairs Insulin-Induced Akt/Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Signaling in ob/ob Mouse Aorta

PubMed Central

Taguchi, Kumiko; Matsumoto, Takayuki; Kamata, Katsuo; Kobayashi, Tsuneo

2012-01-01

In type 2 diabetes, impaired insulin-induced Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) signaling may decrease the vascular relaxation response. Previously, we reported that this response was negatively regulated by G protein–coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2). In this study, we investigated whether/how in aortas from ob/ob mice (a model of type 2 diabetes) GRK2 and β-arrestin 2 might regulate insulin-induced signaling. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was measured in aortic strips. GRK2, β-arrestin 2, and Akt/eNOS signaling pathway proteins and activities were mainly assayed by Western blotting. In ob/ob (vs. control [Lean]) aortas: 1) insulin-induced relaxation was reduced, and this deficit was prevented by GRK2 inhibitor, anti-GRK2 antibody, and an siRNA specifically targeting GRK2. The Lean aorta relaxation response was reduced to the ob/ob level by pretreatment with an siRNA targeting β-arrestin 2. 2) Insulin-stimulated Akt and eNOS phosphorylations were decreased. 3) GRK2 expression in membranes was elevated, and, upon insulin stimulation, this expression was further increased, but β-arrestin 2 was decreased. In ob/ob aortic membranes under insulin stimulation, the phosphorylations of Akt and eNOS were augmented by GRK2 inhibitor. In mouse aorta, GRK2 may be, upon translocation, a key negative regulator of insulin responsiveness and an important regulator of the β-arrestin 2/Akt/eNOS signaling, which is implicated in diabetic endothelial dysfunction. PMID:22688330

G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2, with β-arrestin 2, impairs insulin-induced Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase signaling in ob/ob mouse aorta.

PubMed

Taguchi, Kumiko; Matsumoto, Takayuki; Kamata, Katsuo; Kobayashi, Tsuneo

2012-08-01

In type 2 diabetes, impaired insulin-induced Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) signaling may decrease the vascular relaxation response. Previously, we reported that this response was negatively regulated by G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2). In this study, we investigated whether/how in aortas from ob/ob mice (a model of type 2 diabetes) GRK2 and β-arrestin 2 might regulate insulin-induced signaling. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was measured in aortic strips. GRK2, β-arrestin 2, and Akt/eNOS signaling pathway proteins and activities were mainly assayed by Western blotting. In ob/ob (vs. control [Lean]) aortas: 1) insulin-induced relaxation was reduced, and this deficit was prevented by GRK2 inhibitor, anti-GRK2 antibody, and an siRNA specifically targeting GRK2. The Lean aorta relaxation response was reduced to the ob/ob level by pretreatment with an siRNA targeting β-arrestin 2. 2) Insulin-stimulated Akt and eNOS phosphorylations were decreased. 3) GRK2 expression in membranes was elevated, and, upon insulin stimulation, this expression was further increased, but β-arrestin 2 was decreased. In ob/ob aortic membranes under insulin stimulation, the phosphorylations of Akt and eNOS were augmented by GRK2 inhibitor. In mouse aorta, GRK2 may be, upon translocation, a key negative regulator of insulin responsiveness and an important regulator of the β-arrestin 2/Akt/eNOS signaling, which is implicated in diabetic endothelial dysfunction.

Does the Position of the Aorta Change With the Altered Body Position in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients With Thoracolumbar Kyphosis?: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Investigation.

PubMed

Qu, Zhe; Bang-Ping, Qian; Qiu, Yong; Shi, Ben-Long; Ji, Ming-Liang; Wang, Bin; Yu, Yang; Zhu, Ze-Zhang

2017-08-01

A prospective magnetic resonance imaging study. To quantitatively explore the differences in the anatomic position of the aorta relative to the spine between supine and prone positions in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis. Aortic complications may occur during the lumbar spine osteotomy in correcting thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to AS, and a clear understanding of the spatial relationship between the aorta and the vertebrae is essential to prevent these iatrogenic complications. However, previous anatomic study was performed with AS patients in the supine position, which was different from the prone position adopted in surgery. To date, no report has been published to investigate the mobility of the aorta relative to the vertebrae between supine and prone positions in AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis. From March 2013 to September 2014, 22 AS patients (21 males, 1 female) with thoracolumbar kyphosis with a mean age of 30.7 years (range, 19-46 y) were recruited. Magnetic resonance imaging examinations from T9 to L3 in both the supine and prone positions were performed, and the left pedicle-aorta (LtP-Ao) angle and LtP-Ao distance were measured at each level. The differences of these parameters between the 2 positions were compared by the paired sample t test, and the relationships between the shifting of the aorta and the change of global kyphosis and lumbar lordosis were evaluated by the Pearson correlation coefficient. The level of significance (α) was set at 0.05. At T9-L3 levels, no significant difference was noted in LtP-Ao distances (43.78 vs. 44.42 mm; P=0.077) and LtP-Ao angles (0.82 vs. 0.22 degrees; P=0.053) between supine and prone positions. The correlation analysis also revealed no remarkable correlation between the change of LtP-Ao angle and increase of global kyphosis and lumbar lordosis in the prone position. There is no significant change of the relative positions between the aorta and the vertebrae at T9-L3 levels after the patient turned to a prone position, which implied that the mobility and range of motion of the aorta is limited in advanced stage of AS.

Fluid Dynamics of Coarctation of the Aorta and Effect of Bicuspid Aortic Valve

PubMed Central

Keshavarz-Motamed, Zahra; Garcia, Julio; Kadem, Lyes

2013-01-01

Up to 80% of patients with coarctation of the aorta (COA) have a bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). Patients with COA and BAV have elevated risks of aortic complications despite successful surgical repair. The development of such complications involves the interplay between the mechanical forces applied on the artery and the biological processes occurring at the cellular level. The focus of this study is on hemodynamic modifications induced in the aorta in the presence of a COA and a BAV. For this purpose, numerical investigations and magnetic resonance imaging measurements were conducted with different configurations: (1) normal: normal aorta and normal aortic valve; (2) isolated COA: aorta with COA (75% reduction by area) and normal aortic valve; (3) complex COA: aorta with the same severity of COA (75% reduction by area) and BAV. The results show that the coexistence of COA and BAV significantly alters blood flow in the aorta with a significant increase in the maximal velocity, secondary flow, pressure loss, time-averaged wall shear stress and oscillatory shear index downstream of the COA. These findings can contribute to a better understanding of why patients with complex COA have adverse outcome even following a successful surgery. PMID:24015239

Heat Exchnage in the Black Skipjack, and the Blood-Gas Relationship of Warm-Bodied Fishes

PubMed Central

Graham, Jeffrey B.

1973-01-01

The black skipjack, Euthynnus lineatus, uses a centrally located vascular heat exchanger to maintain core body temperatures warmer than ambient sea water. The heat exchanger is composed of the dorsal aorta, the posterior cardinal vein, and a large vertical rete. The dorsal aorta is embedded in the posterior cardinal vein and is completely bathed in venous blood. Skipjack hemoglobin appears similar to that of the bluefin tuna in that oxygen capacity is unaffected by changing temperature. Temperature-insensitive hemoglobin may function in warm-bodied fishes to prevent the premature dissociation of oxygen from hemoglobin as blood is warmed en route to the muscles. Images PMID:16592097

Effects of lectins on calcification by vesicles isolated from aortas of cholesterol-fed rabbits.

PubMed

Hsu, H H; Tawfik, O; Sun, F

2000-04-05

Advanced vascular calcification in atherosclerosis weakens arterial walls, thereby imposing a serious rupturing effect. However, the mechanism of dystrophic calcification remains unknown. Although accumulating morphological and biochemical evidence reveals a role for calcifiable vesicles in plaque calcification, the mechanism of vesicle-mediated calcification has not been fully explored. To study whether vesicles' membrane components, such as carbohydrates, may have a role in vesicle-mediated calcification, the effect of sugar-binding lectins on calcification was investigated. Atherosclerosis was developed by feeding rabbits with a diet supplemented with 0.5% cholesterol and 2% peanut oil for 4 months. Calcifiable vesicles were then isolated from thoracic aortas by collagenase digestion. The histological examination of aortas with hematoxylin counter-staining indicated abnormal formation of large plaques enriched with macrophage-derived foam cells. Fourier transform spectroscopy revealed mild calcification in aortas indicating that advanced stages of heavy calcification have yet to be reached. However, vesicles isolated from the aortas were capable of calcification in the presence of physiological levels of Ca(2+), Pi, and ATP. Thus, at this stage of atherosclerosis, aortas may start to produce calcifiable vesicles, but at a level insufficient for substantial formation of mineral in aortas. The assessments by FT-IR analysis and Alizarin red staining indicated that concanavalin A (Con A) substantially increased mineral formation by isolated vesicles. Con A also exerted a marked stimulatory effect on (45)Ca and (32)Pi deposition in a dose-dependent fashion with a half-maximal effect at 6-10 microg/ml. Either alpha-methylmannoside or alpha-methylglucoside, but not mannitol, at 10 mM abolished the stimulation. Con A stimulation was abolished after Con A was removed from calcifying media, suggesting that covalent binding may not be involved in the effect. Galactosides appear to also be implicated in (45)Ca and (32)Pi deposition since Abrus precartorius agglutinin, which specifically binds galactosides, enhanced the deposition. Neither wheat-germ agglutinin that binds N-acetylglucoside nor N-acetylgalactoside-specific Helix pomatia agglutinin was effective, suggesting that the acetylated forms of carbohydrate moieties are either absent in vesicles or may not be involved in calcification. None of these lectins exerted an effect on ATPase. Thus, the effects of lectins appeared to be mediated through interactions with carbohydrate moieties of calcifiable vesicles. Whether stimulation of vesicle-calcification by lectins is of pathological significance in atherosclerotic calcification requires further investigation.

Activation of human T cells in hypertension: Studies of Humanized Mice and Hypertensive Humans

PubMed Central

Itani, Hana A.; McMaster, William G.; Saleh, Mohamed A.; Nazarewicz, Rafal R.; Mikolajczyk, Tomasz P.; Kaszuba, Anna; Konior, Anna; Prejbisz, Aleksander; Januszewicz, Andrzej; Norlander, Allison E.; Chen, Wei; Bonami, Rachel H.; Marshall, Andrew F.; Poffenberger, Greg; Weyand, Cornelia M.; Madhur, Meena S.; Moore, Daniel J.; Harrison, David G.; Guzik, Tomasz J.

2016-01-01

Emerging evidence supports an important role for T cells in the genesis of hypertension. Because this work has predominantly been performed in experimental animals, we sought to determine whether human T cells are activated in hypertension. We employed a humanized mouse model in which the murine immune system is replaced by the human immune system. Angiotensin II increased systolic pressure to 162 mm Hg vs. 116 mm Hg for sham treated animals. Flow cytometry of thoracic lymph nodes, thoracic aorta and kidney revealed increased infiltration of human leukocytes (CD45+) and T lymphocytes (CD3+ and CD4+) in response to angiotensin II infusion. Interestingly, there was also an increase in the memory T cells (CD3+/CD45RO+) in the aortas and lymph nodes. Prevention of hypertension using hydralazine and hydrochlorothiazide prevented the accumulation of T cells in these tissues. Studies of isolated human T cells and monocytes indicated that angiotensin II had no direct effect on cytokine production by T cells or the ability of dendritic cells to drive T cell proliferation. We also observed an increase in circulating IL-17A producing CD4+ T cells and both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells that produce IFN-γ in hypertensive compared to normotensive humans. Thus, human T cells become activated and invade critical end-organ tissues in response to hypertension in a humanized mouse model. This response likely reflects the hypertensive milieu encountered in vivo and is not a direct effect of the hormone angiotensin II. PMID:27217403

Activation of Human T Cells in Hypertension: Studies of Humanized Mice and Hypertensive Humans.

PubMed

Itani, Hana A; McMaster, William G; Saleh, Mohamed A; Nazarewicz, Rafal R; Mikolajczyk, Tomasz P; Kaszuba, Anna M; Konior, Anna; Prejbisz, Aleksander; Januszewicz, Andrzej; Norlander, Allison E; Chen, Wei; Bonami, Rachel H; Marshall, Andrew F; Poffenberger, Greg; Weyand, Cornelia M; Madhur, Meena S; Moore, Daniel J; Harrison, David G; Guzik, Tomasz J

2016-07-01

Emerging evidence supports an important role for T cells in the genesis of hypertension. Because this work has predominantly been performed in experimental animals, we sought to determine whether human T cells are activated in hypertension. We used a humanized mouse model in which the murine immune system is replaced by the human immune system. Angiotensin II increased systolic pressure to 162 versus 116 mm Hg for sham-treated animals. Flow cytometry of thoracic lymph nodes, thoracic aorta, and kidney revealed increased infiltration of human leukocytes (CD45(+)) and T lymphocytes (CD3(+) and CD4(+)) in response to angiotensin II infusion. Interestingly, there was also an increase in the memory T cells (CD3(+)/CD45RO(+)) in the aortas and lymph nodes. Prevention of hypertension using hydralazine and hydrochlorothiazide prevented the accumulation of T cells in these tissues. Studies of isolated human T cells and monocytes indicated that angiotensin II had no direct effect on cytokine production by T cells or the ability of dendritic cells to drive T-cell proliferation. We also observed an increase in circulating interleukin-17A producing CD4(+) T cells and both CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells that produce interferon-γ in hypertensive compared with normotensive humans. Thus, human T cells become activated and invade critical end-organ tissues in response to hypertension in a humanized mouse model. This response likely reflects the hypertensive milieu encountered in vivo and is not a direct effect of the hormone angiotensin II. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 decreases calponin-1 levels and contributes to arterial remodeling in early hypertension.

PubMed

Belo, Vanessa de Almeida; Parente, Juliana Montenegro; Tanus-Santos, José Eduardo; Castro, Michele M

2016-10-15

Increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 is implicated in the vascular remodeling of hypertension. Calponin-1 is a contractile protein, and its absence is associated with vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotype switch, which leads to migration and remodeling. We evaluated whether increased MMP-2 activity precedes chronic vascular remodeling by decreasing calponin-1 and inducing VSMC proliferation. Sham or two kidney-one clip (2K1C) rats were treated with doxycycline at 30mg/kg/day. Systolic blood pressure was increased in the 2K1C rats after 1 and 2weeks post-surgery, and doxycycline was effective to reduce it only at 2weeks of hypertension (p<0.05). Increased activity of MMP-2 was observed in aortas from 2K1C at 1 and 2weeks of hypertension, followed by increased VSMC proliferation, and those effects were abolished by treating 2K1C rats with doxycycline (p<0.05). Increased aortic media to lumen ratio started to emerge in 2K1C rats at 1week of hypertension, and it was established by 2weeks. MMP-2 and calponin-1 co-localized in the cytosol of VSMC. Aortas from 2K1C rats showed a significant reduction in calponin-1 levels at 1week of hypertension, and doxycycline prevented its loss (p<0.05). However, at 2weeks of hypertension, calponin-1 was upregulated in 2K1C (p<0.05 vs. Sham groups). The mRNA levels of calponin-1 were not altered in the aortas of 2K1C at 1week of hypertension. MMP-2 may contribute to the post-translational decrease in calponin-1, thus culminating in hypertension-induced maladaptive arterial remodeling. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Beneficial effects of Acer okamotoanum sap on L-NAME-induced hypertension-like symptoms in a rat model.

PubMed

Yang, Hyun; Hwang, Inho; Koo, Tae-Hyoung; Ahn, Hyo-Jin; Kim, Sun; Park, Mi-Jin; Choi, Won-Sil; Kang, Ha-Young; Choi, In-Gyu; Choi, Kyung-Chul; Jeung, Eui-Bae

2012-02-01

The sap of Acer okamotoanum has been termed 'bone-benefit-water' in Korea owing to its mineral and sugar content. In particular, the calcium (Ca) and potassium (K) concentrations of the sap of Acer okamotoanum are 40- and 20-times higher, respectively, than commercial spring water. In the present study, we examined whether Acer okamotoanum sap improves or prevents hypertension-like symptoms in a rat model. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (8-weeks-old) were provided commercial spring water supplemented with 25, 50 or 100% Acer okamotoanum sap, 3% potassium ions (K+) or captopril, and treated daily for 2 weeks with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 100 mg/kg/day) by subcutaneous injection, in order to induce hypertensive symptoms. Rats were euthanized 6 h following the final injection. To assess the effect of the sap on hypertension-like symptoms, we examined the mean blood pressure (BP), protein levels and localization of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in the descending aorta of the rats. BP levels were significantly lower in hypertensive rats received 25, 50 and 100% sap compared with rats who were administered only commercial spring water. Protein levels of eNOS were repressed in L-NAME-only-treated rats, but were elevated in the descending aorta of rats administered captopril, K+ water and Acer okamotoanum sap (25, 50 and 100%) up to the level of the sham group provided commercial spring water, and then injected with dimethyl sulfoxide for the same period of time. Localized eNOS protein was abundantly expressed in the perivascular descending aorta adipose tissue of the rats. Taken together, these results demonstrated that the sap of Acer okamotoanum ameliorated high BP induced by L-NAME treatment in a rat model.

Aortic atherosclerotic plaque detection using a multiwavelength handheld photoacoustic imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirano, Susumu; Namita, Takeshi; Kondo, Kengo; Yamakawa, Makoto; Shiina, Tsuyoshi

2016-03-01

Patients affected by diseases caused by arteriosclerosis are increasing. Atherosclerosis, which is becoming an especially difficult health problem, forms plaques from lipids such as cholesterol located in walls of the aorta, cerebral artery, and coronary artery. Because lipid-rich plaques are vulnerable and because arterial rupture causes acute vascular occlusion, early detection is crucially important to prevent plaque growth and rupture. Ultrasound systems can detect plaques but cannot discriminate between vulnerable and equable plaques. To evaluate plaques non-invasively and easily, we developed a handheld photoacoustic imaging device. Its usefulness was verified in phantom experiments with a bovine aorta in which mimic plaque had been embedded. Photoacoustic images taken at wavelengths that produce high light absorbance by lipids show strong photoacoustic signals from the boundary of the mimic plaque. Results confirmed that our system can evaluate plaque properties by analysis with the photoacoustic spectrum. The effects of surrounding tissues and tissue components on plaque evaluation were investigated using a layered phantom. The mimic plaque located under a 6 mm blood layer was also evaluated. Results of these analyses demonstrate the system's usefulness.

Modification of an endovascular stent graft for abdominal aortic aneurysm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moloye, Olajompo Busola

Endovascular surgery is currently used to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). A stent graft is deployed to exclude blood flow from the aneurysm sac. It is an effective procedure used in preventing aneurysm rupture, with reduced patient morbidity and mortality compared to open surgical repair. Migration and leakage around the device ("endoleak") due to poor sealing of the stent graft to the aorta have raised concerns about the long-term durability of endovascular repair. A preliminary study of cell migration and proliferation is presented as a prelude to a more extensive in vivo testing. A method to enhance the biological seal between the stent graft and the aorta is proposed to eliminate this problem. This can be achieved by impregnating the stent graft with 50/50 poly (DL-lactide co glycolic acid) (PLGA) and growth factors such as basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) or connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), at the proximal and distal ends. It is hypothesized that as PLGA degrades it will release the growth factors that will promote proliferation and migration of aortic smooth muscle cells to the coated site, leading to a natural seal between the aorta and the stent graft. In addition, growth factor release should promote smooth muscle cell (SMC) contraction that will help keep the stent graft in place at the proximal and distal ends. It is shown that a statistically significant effect of increased cell proliferation and migration is observed for CTGF release. Less of an effect is noted for bFGF or just the PLGA. The effect is estimated to be large enough to be clinically significant in a future animal study. The long term goal of this study is to reduce migration encounter after graft deployment and to reduce secondary interventions of EVAR especially for older patients who are unfit for open surgical treatment.

The role of endothelium in the vasorelaxant effects of the essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum in aorta and mesenteric vascular bed of rats.

PubMed

Pires, Alana F; Madeira, Socorro V Frota; Soares, Pedro M G; Montenegro, Claudia M; Souza, Emmanuel P; Resende, Angela C; Soares de Moura, Roberto; Assreuy, Ana M S; Criddle, David N

2012-10-01

This study investigated the endothelium-dependent vasorelaxant effects of the essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum (EOOG) in aortas and mesenteric vascular beds isolated from rats. EOOG (3-300 µg/mL) relaxed the tonic contractions induced by phenylephrine (0.1 µmol/L) in isolated aortas in a concentration-dependent manner in both endothelium-containing and endothelium-denuded preparations. This effect was partially reversed by L-NAME (100 µmol/L) but not by indomethacin (10 µmol/L) or TEA (5 mmol/L). In mesenteric vascular beds, bolus injections of EOOG (30, 50, 100, and 300 ng) decreased the perfusion pressure induced by noradrenaline (6 µmol/L) in endothelium-intact preparations but not in those treated with deoxycholate. L-NAME (300 µmol/L) but not TEA (1 mmol/L) or indomethacin (3 µmol/L) significantly reduced the vasodilatory response to EOOG at all of the doses tested. Our data showed that EOOG exerts a dose-dependent vasodilatory response in the resistance blood vessels of rat mesenteric vascular beds and in the capacitance blood vessel, the rat aorta. This action is completely dependent on endothelial nitric oxide (NO) release in the mesenteric vascular beds but only partially dependent on NO in the aorta. These novel effects of EOOG highlight interesting differences between resistance and capacitance blood vessels.

Canine Autoanticoagulation during Extracorporeal Perfusion.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-12-19

eviscerated as .o’: atr midline laparatomy, the celiac , superior and inerior ee ..: re ligated and divided between ligatures and the following x-azr C...extreme care taken to prevent loss of blood. In half of the experiments, the hepatic artery was maintained. patent by sectioning the celiac artery distal...to the origin of the hepatic artery; in the other half, the celiac artery was divided near its origin at the aorta, thus preventing flow via the

EFFECT OF OIL COMBUSTION PARTICLE BIOAVAILABLE CONSTITUENTS ON EX VIVO VASCULAR FUNCTION OF AORTAS RECOVERED FROM NORMAL AND TYPE 2 DIABETIC RATS

EPA Science Inventory

Effect of Oil Combustion Particle Bioavailable Constituents on Ex Vivo Vascular Function of Aortae Recovered from Healthy and Early Type 2 Diabetic Rats
KL Dreher1, SE Kelly2, SD Proctor2, and JC Russell2. 1National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory, US EPA, RTP, NC;...

[Vascular effect of extract from mulberry leaves and underlying mechanism].

PubMed

Xia, Man-Li; Gao, Qin; Zhou, Xin-Mei; Qian, Ling-Bo; Shen, Zhong-Hua; Jiang, Hui-di; Xia, Qiang

2007-01-01

To investigate the vascular activity of extract from mulberry leaves (EML) on rat thoracic aorta and the underlying mechanism. Isolated thoracic rings of Sprague-Dawley rats were mounted on the organ bath and the tension of the vessel was recorded. (1) EML produced a concentration-dependent vasorelaxation of aorta preconstricted by high K(+) (60 mmol/L) or 10(-6) mol/L phenylephrine (PE) in endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded arteries. (2) EML at EC(50) concentration reduced the calcium dose-response curve. (3) After incubation of aorta with verapamil, EML induced vasocontraction of aorta preconstricted by PE, which was abolished by ruthenium red. The vascular effect of EML is biphasic, the vasorelaxation is greater than the vasocontraction. The vasorelaxation induced by EML may be mediated by inhibition of voltage-and receptor-dependent calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, while the vasocontraction is via activation of ryanodine receptor in endoplasmic reticulum.

Dynamics of the aortic arch submitted to a shock loading: Parametric study with fluid-structure models.

PubMed

El Baroudi, A; Razafimahery, F; Rakotomanana, L

2012-01-01

This work aims to present some fluid-structure models for analyzing the dynamics of the aorta during a brusque loading. Indeed, various lesions may appear at the aortic arch during car crash or other accident such as brusque falling. Aortic stresses evolution are simulated during the shock at the cross section and along the aorta. One hot question was that if a brusque deceleration can generate tissue tearing, or a shock is necessary to provoke such a damage. Different constitutive laws of blood are then tested whereas the aorta is assumed linear and elastic. The overall shock model is inspired from an experimental jig. We show that the viscosity has strong influence on the stress and parietal moments and forces. The nonlinear viscosity has no significant additional effects for healthy aorta, but modifies the stress and parietal loadings for the stenotic aorta.

Phenolics from Garcinia mangostana alleviate exaggerated vasoconstriction in metabolic syndrome through direct vasodilatation and nitric oxide generation.

PubMed

Abdallah, Hossam M; El-Bassossy, Hany M; Mohamed, Gamal A; El-Halawany, Ali M; Alshali, Khalid Z; Banjar, Zainy M

2016-09-13

Exaggerated vasoconstriction plays a very important role in the hypertension, a major component of metabolic syndrome (MetS). In the current work, the potential protective effect of methanol extract of fruit hulls of Garcinia mangostana L. on the exaggerated vasoconstriction in MetS has been investigated. In addition, the bioactive fraction and compounds as well as the possible mechanism of action have been illustrated. The effect of methanol extract of G. mangostana (GMT) fruit hulls on the vascular reactivity of aorta isolated from animals with MetS was investigated through bioassay-guided fractionation procedures. GMT was partitioned with chloroform (I) and the remaining mother liquor was fractionated on a Diaion HP-20 with H2O, 50 and 100 % methanol to give fractions II, III, and IV, respectively. The effect of total extract (GMT), bioactive fraction and the bioactive compounds on the vasoconstriction were examined in aortae isolated from animals with MetS by incubation for 30 min before exposing aortae to cumulative concentrations of phenylephrine (PE). The direct relaxant effect was also examined by adding cumulative concentrations of the bioactive fraction and its bioactive compounds to PE precontracted vessels. In addition, aortic nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was investigated. Bioassay-guided fractionation of GMT revealed isolation of garcimangosone D (1), aromadendrin-8-C-β-D-glucopyranoside (2), 2,4,3'-trihydroxy benzophenone-6-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), maclurin-6-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (rhodanthenone) (4), epicatechin (5), and 2,3',4,5',6-pentahydroxy benzophenone (6). Only compounds 2, 4, and 5 significantly alleviated the exaggerated vasoconstriction of MetS aortae and in the same time showed significant vasodilation of PE pre-contracted aortae. To further illustrate the mechanism of action, the observed vasodilation was completely blocked by the nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor, Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride and inhibited by guanylate cyclase inhibitor, methylene blue. However, vasodilation was not affected by the potassium channel blocker, tetraethylammonium or the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin. In addition, compounds 2, 4, and 5 stimulated NO generation from isolated aortae to levels comparable with acetylcholine. Furthermore, 4 and 5 inhibited reactive oxygen species generation in MetS aortae. The phenolic compounds 2, 4, and 5 ameliorated the exaggerated vasoconstriction in MetS aortae through vasodilatation-NO generation mechanism.

The effect of proximal anastomosis on the expansion rate of a dilated ascending aorta in coronary artery bypass surgery: a prospective study

PubMed Central

Balcı, Ahmet Yavuz; Vural, Unsal; Özdemir, MD Fatih; Kızılay, Mehmet; Şenocak, Mutlu; Kayacıoğlu, Ilyas; Yekeler, Ibrahim; Aksoy, Rezan; Satılmış,, Seçkin; Şaşkın, Huseyin

2017-01-01

Summary Background: This study was designed to determine the short- and long-term effects of proximal aortic anastomosis, performed during isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with dilatation of the ascending aorta who did not require surgical intervention. Methods: The study was performed on 192 (38 female and 160 male patients; mean age, 62.1 ± 9.2 years; range, 42–80 years) patients with dilatation of the ascending aorta who underwent CABG surgery between 1 June 2006 and 31 May 2014. In group 1 (n = 114), the saphenous vein and left internal mammarian artery grafts were used, and proximal anastomosis was performed on the ascending aorta. In group 2 (n = 78), left and right internal mammarian artery grafts were used, and proximal aortic anastomosis was not performed. Pre-operatively and in the first and third years postoperatively, the ascending aortic diameter was measured and recorded using transthoracic echocardiography at four different regions (annulus, sinus of Valsalva, sinotubular junction and tubular aorta). Results: A statistically significant difference was found between the groups for the number of grafts used and the duration of aortic cross-clamping and cardiopulmonary bypass. No significant intergroup difference was seen for the mean diameter of the ascending aorta (p > 0.05). Annual changes in the aortic diameter were found to be extremely significantly different in both groups (p = 0.0001). Mean values of the aortic diameter at the level of the sinotubular junction and tubular ascending aorta, mean aortic diameters (p = 0.002 and p = 0.0001, respectively), annual increase in diameter (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively), and mean annual difference in diameter (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively) at one and three years postoperatively were statistically significantly different between the groups. Conclusion: In patients with ascending aortic dilatation who did not require surgical intervention and who had proximal anastomosis of the ascending aorta and underwent only CABG, we detected statistically significant increases in the diameter of the sinotubular junction and tubular aorta up to three years postoperatively. PMID:27701487

The effect of proximal anastomosis on the expansion rate of a dilated ascending aorta in coronary artery bypass surgery: a prospective study.

PubMed

Yavuz Balci, Ahmet; Vural, Unsal; Aksoy, Rezan; Özdemir, M Fatih; Satilmiş, Seçkin; Kizilay, Mehmet; Şenocak, Mutlu; Şaşkin, Huseyin; Kayacioğlu, Ilyas; Yekeler, Ibrahim

This study was designed to determine the short- and long-term effects of proximal aortic anastomosis, performed during isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with dilatation of the ascending aorta who did not require surgical intervention. The study was performed on 192 (38 female and 160 male patients; mean age, 62.1 ± 9.2 years; range, 42-80 years) patients with dilatation of the ascending aorta who underwent CABG surgery between 1 June 2006 and 31 May 2014. In group 1 (n = 114), the saphenous vein and left internal mammarian artery grafts were used, and proximal anastomosis was performed on the ascending aorta. In group 2 (n = 78), left and right internal mammarian artery grafts were used, and proximal aortic anastomosis was not performed. Pre-operatively and in the first and third years postoperatively, the ascending aortic diameter was measured and recorded using transthoracic echocardiography at four different regions (annulus, sinus of Valsalva, sinotubular junction and tubular aorta). A statistically significant difference was found between the groups for the number of grafts used and the duration of aortic cross-clamping and cardiopulmonary bypass. No significant intergroup difference was seen for the mean diameter of the ascending aorta (p > 0.05). Annual changes in the aortic diameter were found to be extremely significantly different in both groups (p = 0.0001). Mean values of the aortic diameter at the level of the sinotubular junction and tubular ascending aorta, mean aortic diameters (p = 0.002 and p = 0.0001, respectively), annual increase in diameter (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively), and mean annual difference in diameter (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively) at one and three years postoperatively were statistically significantly different between the groups. In patients with ascending aortic dilatation who did not require surgical intervention and who had proximal anastomosis of the ascending aorta and underwent only CABG, we detected statistically significant increases in the diameter of the sinotubular junction and tubular aorta up to three years postoperatively.

Comparative Analysis of Mechanical Properties of PWV, NO and Ascending Aorta between WHY Rats and SHR Rats.

PubMed

Yu, Bo; Xu, De-Jun; Sun, Huan; Yang, Kun; Luo, Min

2015-09-01

The aim of this study was to compare and analyze the tensile mechanical properties of the ascending aorta (AA) in Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), for the purpose of providing a biomechanical basis for hypertension prevention. Pulse wave velocities (PWV) and serum nitric oxide (NO) concentrations were determined in 6-month-old WKY rats and SHRs (n = 21, n = 21, respectively). Then, 20 AAs from each group were obtained for longitudinal tensile testing. The maximum stress, maximum strain, and strain at a tensile stress of 16 Kpa were greater in WKY rats than in SHRs (p < 0.05). The aortic elastic modulus and PWV value were greater in SHRs than in WKY rats (p < 0.05 for both), while NO concentrations were lower in the SHR group than in the WKY group (p < 0.05). The AA tensile mechanical properties differed between the WKY rats and SHRs, and the tensile mechanical properties of the SHR model had changed. Ascending aorta; Hypertension; Mechanical properties; Pulse wave velocity; SHR rats; WKY rats.

Cilostazol enhances atorvastatin-induced vasodilation of female rat aorta during aging.

PubMed

Nurullahoğlu-Atalık, K E; Kutlu, S; Solak, H; Koca, R Özen

2017-09-01

Statins have cholesterol-independent effects including an increased vascular nitric oxide activity and are commonly used by patients with cardiovascular disease. Such patients frequently have cardiovascular diseases, which may be treated with cilostazol, a platelet aggregation inhibitor. This study was designed to investigate whether combined use of cilostazol would increase the inhibitory effect of statin on vascular smooth muscle and how maturation would affect these responses. Female Wistar rats, aged 3-4 months (young) and 14-15 months (adult), were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and the thoracic aorta was dissected and cut into 3- to 4-mm-long rings. The rings were mounted under a resting tension of 1 g in a 20-ml organ bath filled with Krebs-Henseleit solution. Rings were precontracted with phenylephrine (10 -6  M), and the presence of endothelium was confirmed with acetylcholine (10 -6  M). Then, the concentration-response curves were obtained for atorvastatin alone (10 -10 to 3 × 10 -4  M; control) and in the presence of cilostazol (10 -6  M) in young and adult rat aortas. This experimental protocol was also carried out in aorta rings, which had been pretreated with N G -nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME, 10 -4  M). Atorvastatin induced concentration-dependent relaxations in young and adult rat thoracic aorta rings precontracted with phenylephrine. The pIC 50 value of atorvastatin was significantly decreased in adult rat aortas. In addition, pretreatment of aortas with cilostazol enhanced the potency of atorvastatin in both young and adult aortas. Incubation with l-NAME did not completely eliminate the relaxations to atorvastatin in the presence of cilostazol. These results suggest that combined application of cilostazol with atorvastatin was significantly more potent than atorvastatin alone. Combined drug therapy may be efficacious in delaying the occurrence of cardiovascular events.

Angeli's Salt, a nitroxyl anion donor, reverses endothelin-1 mediated vascular dysfunction in murine aorta.

PubMed

Wynne, Brandi M; Labazi, Hicham; Carneiro, Zidonia N; Tostes, Rita C; Webb, R Clinton

2017-11-05

Nitroglycerin (Gtn) is a treatment for cardiovascular patients due to its vasodilatory actions, but induces tolerance when given chronically. A proposed mechanism is the superoxide (O 2 - )-oxidative stress hypothesis, which suggests that Gtn increases O 2 - production. Nitric oxide (NO) exists in three different redox states; the protonated, reduced state, nitroxyl anion (HNO) is an emerging candidate in vascular regulation. HNO is resistant to scavenging and of particular interest in conditions where high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) exist. We hypothesize that treatment with Gtn will exacerbate endothelin 1 (ET-1) induced vascular dysfunction via an increase in ROS, while treatment with Angeli's Salt (AS), an HNO donor, will not. Aorta from mice were isolated and divided into four groups: vehicle, ET-1 [0.1μM, 1μM], ET-1+Gtn [Gtn 1μM] and ET-1+AS [AS 1μM]. Concentration response curves (CRCs) to acetylcholine (ACh) and phenylephrine (Phe) were performed. Aorta incubated with ET-1 (for 20-22h) exhibited a decreased relaxation response to ACh and an increase in Phe-mediated contraction. Aorta incubated with AS exhibited a reversal in ET-1 induced vascular and endothelial dysfunction. ET-1 increased ROS in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), visualized by dihydroethidium (DHE) staining. AS incubated reduced this ROS generation, yet maintained with Gtn treatment. These data suggest that aorta incubated with the HNO donor, AS, can reverse ET-1 mediated vascular dysfunction, which may be through a decrease or prevention of ROS generation. We propose that HNO may be vasoprotective and that HNO donors studied as a therapeutic option where other organic nitrates are contraindicative. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Synchronized epiaortic two-dimensional and color Doppler echocardiographic guidance enables routine ascending aortic cannulation in type A acute aortic dissection.

PubMed

Inoue, Yoshito; Takahashi, Ryuichi; Ueda, Toshihiko; Yozu, Ryohei

2011-02-01

Preference for arterial inflow during surgery for type A acute aortic dissection remains controversial. Antegrade central perfusion prevents malperfusion and retrograde embolism, and the ascending aorta provides arterial access for rapid establishment of systemic perfusion, especially if there is hemodynamic instability. It has not been used routinely, however, because of the disruption caused to the aorta. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of routine cannulation of the dissected aorta for the repair of type A dissection. Surgical results were analyzed for 83 consecutive patients with type A acute aortic dissection between 2002 and 2009. They were treated surgically by prosthetic graft replacement under hypothermic circulatory arrest. The ascending aorta was routinely cannulated using the Seldinger technique with epiaortic echocardiographic guidance; antegrade systemic perfusion was evaluated by color Doppler ultrasound. Systemic antegrade perfusion via the dissected ascending aorta was performed safely in all cases. There was no malperfusion or thromboembolism as a result of ascending aortic cannulation. Epiaortic 2-dimensional and color Doppler imaging provided real-time monitoring adequate for the placement and for proper systemic perfusion. There were 5 in-hospital deaths (5/83=6.0%) and 8 strokes (preoperative 6/83=7.2%, postoperative 2/83=2.4%). A total of 78 patients (78/83=94%) were discharged and have been followed up without major adverse cardiac events for a mean duration of 31.8 months. Ascending aortic cannulation is a simple and safe technique that provides a rapid and reliable route of antegrade central systemic perfusion in type A aortic dissection. Copyright © 2011 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Aortic wrapping for stanford type A acute aortic dissection: short and midterm outcome.

PubMed

Demondion, Pierre; Ramadan, Ramzi; Azmoun, Alexandre; Raoux, François; Angel, Claude; Nottin, Rémi; Deleuze, Philippe

2014-05-01

Conventional surgical treatment of Stanford type A acute aortic dissection (AAD) is associated with considerable in-hospital mortality. As regards very elderly or high-risk patients with type A AAD, some may meet the criteria for less invasive surgery likely to prevent the complications associated with aortic replacement. We have retrospectively analyzed a cohort of patients admitted to our center for Stanford type A AAD and having undergone surgery between 2008 and 2012. The outcomes of the patients having had an aortic replacement under cardiopulmonary bypass (group A) have been compared with the outcomes of the patients who underwent off-pump wrapping of the ascending aorta (group B). Among the 54 patients admitted for Stanford type A AAD, 15 with a mean age of 77 years [46 to 94] underwent wrapping of the aorta. Regarding the new standard European system for cardiac operative risk evaluation (EuroSCORE II), the median result in our group B patients was 10.47 [5.02 to 30.07]. In-hospital mortality was 12.80% in group A and 6.6% in group B (p=0.66). For patients who underwent external wrapping of the ascending aorta, follow-up mortality rate was 13.3% with a median follow-up of 15 months [range 0 to 47]. The gold standard in cases of Stanford type A AAD consists of emergency surgical replacement of the dissected ascending aorta. In some cases in which the aortic root is not affected a less invasive surgical approach consisting of wrapping the dissected ascending aorta can be suggested as an alternative. Copyright © 2014 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Analysis of the influences of short-term levosimendan exposure on oxidant/antioxidant status and trace-element levels in the physiological status of the thoracic aorta of rats.

PubMed

Aydin, Cemalettin; Ay, Yasin; Basel, Halil; Kavak, Servet; Inan, Bekir; Bektaş, Hava; Gümrükçüoğlu, Hasan Ali; Ekim, Hasan; Demir, Halit

2012-12-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of levosimendan (chemical formula C₁₄H₁₂N₆O) exposure on oxidant/antioxidant status and trace-element levels in the thoracic aorta of rats. Eighteen male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into two groups of eight animals each. Group 1 was not exposed to levosimendan and served as a control. Levosimendan (12 μg/kg) diluted in 10 ml 0.5 % dextrose was administered intraperitoneally to group 2. Animals of both groups were killed after 3 days, and their thoracic aortae were harvested for determination of changes in tissue oxidant/antioxidant status and trace-element levels. The animals in both groups were killed 72 h after levosimendan exposure, and thoracic aortae were harvested for determination of the lipid peroxidation product MDA and antioxidant GSH levels and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, GSH-Px and CAT. It was found that MDA, GSH and CAT enzyme levels increased in thoracic aortae of rats after levosimendan administration. SOD and CA enzyme activities and the level of antioxidant GSH decreased in thoracic aortae of rats after levosimendan treatment. Pb, Cd and Fe levels of thoracic aortae were significantly higher (P < 0.001) and Mg, Mn, Zn and Cu were significantly lower (P < 0.001) in the levosimendan group compared to the control group. These results suggest that short-term levosimendan treatment caused an increase in free radical production and a decrease in antioxidant enzyme activity in thoracic aortae of levosimendan-treated rats. It also causes a decrease or increase in many mineral levels of the thoracic aorta, which is an undesirable condition for normal pharmacological function.

Low-carbohydrate diets reduce lipid accumulation and arterial inflammation in guinea pigs fed a high-cholesterol diet.

PubMed

Leite, Jose O; DeOgburn, Ryan; Ratliff, Joseph; Su, Randy; Smyth, Joan A; Volek, Jeff S; McGrane, Mary M; Dardik, Alan; Fernandez, Maria Luz

2010-04-01

Low-carbohydrate diets (LCD) efficiently induce weight loss and favorably affect plasma lipids, however, the effect of LCD on atherosclerosis is still argued. To evaluate the effect of LCD on the prevention of atherosclerosis. Twenty guinea pigs were fed either a LCD or a low-fat diet (LFD) in combination with high-cholesterol (0.25g/100g) for 12 weeks. The percentage energy of macronutrient distribution was 10:65:25 for carbohydrate:fat:protein for the LCD, and 55:20:25 for the LFD. Plasma lipids were measured using colorimetric assays. Plasma and aortic oxidized (oxLDL) were quantified using ELISA methods. Inflammatory cytokines were measured in aortic homogenates using an immunoassay. H&E stained sections of aortic sinus and Schultz stained sections of carotid arteries were examined. LDL cholesterol was lower in the LCD compared to the LFD group (71.9+/-34.8 vs. 81.7+/-26.9mg/dL; p=0.039). Aortic cholesterol was also lower in the LCD (4.98+/-1.3mg/g) compared to the LFD group (6.68+/-2.0mg/g); p<0.05. The Schultz staining method confirmed less aortic cholesterol accumulation in the LCD group. Plasma oxLDL did not differ between groups, however, aortic oxLDL was 61% lower in the LCD compared to the LFD group (p=0.045). There was a positive correlation (r=0.63, p=0.03) between oxLDL and cholesterol concentration in the aorta of LFD group, which was not observed in LCD group (r=-0.05, p=0.96). Inflammatory markers were reduced in guinea pigs from the LCD group (p<0.05) and they were correlated with the decreases in oxLDL in aorta. These results suggest that LCD not only decreases lipid deposition, but also prevents the accumulation of oxLDL and reduces inflammatory cytokines within the arterial wall and may prevent atherosclerosis. Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Amlodipine at high dose increases preproendothelin-1 expression in the ventricles and aorta of normotensive rats.

PubMed

Krenek, Peter; Morel, Nicole; Kyselovic, Jan; Wibo, Maurice

2004-04-01

High doses of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers can activate the sympathetic nervous system and the renin-angiotensin system. Both noradrenaline and angiotensin II stimulate preproendothelin-1 gene expression, yet the effects of high doses of dihydropyridines on preproendothelin-1 expression in vivo remain unknown. To investigate the effects of high doses of dihydropyridines on preproendothelin-1 expression in the ventricles and aorta of normotensive rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with amlodipine 5 or 20 mg/kg per day (Amlo 5 or Amlo 20) in drinking water for 5 days or 5 weeks. Systolic blood pressure and heart rate were measured by tail-cuff plethysmography. Gene expression was examined by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Amlo 5 increased heart rate during the first week only and had no effect on blood pressure and ventricular weight and gene expression. Amlo 20 reduced blood pressure transiently and increased heart rate consistently. It did not change relative left ventricular weight (corrected for body weight) after 5 days, but increased it after 5 weeks; it increased relative right ventricular weight at both time points. Aorta weight (mg/mm) was decreased after 5 weeks of treatment with both dosages of amlodipine. Preproendothelin-1 mRNA levels were increased by Amlo 20 in the ventricles and aorta and, concomitantly, renin mRNA was increased in the kidney. Less consistently, interleukin-6 mRNA also increased in ventricles, whereas cardiotrophin-1 mRNA remained unchanged. The sensitivity of isolated aorta to the contractile effect of noradrenaline was decreased by Amlo 5, but not by Amlo 20. In Sprague-Dawley rats, high-dose amlodipine, while promoting neurohormonal activation, induced overexpression of preproendothelin-1 mRNA in the ventricles and aorta. Endothelin-1 overexpression could contribute to the lack of inhibitory effect of high-dose amlodipine on ventricular mass in normotensive rats.

The action of diazoxide and minoxidil sulphate on rat blood vessels: a comparison with cromakalim.

PubMed Central

Newgreen, D. T.; Bray, K. M.; McHarg, A. D.; Weston, A. H.; Duty, S.; Brown, B. S.; Kay, P. B.; Edwards, G.; Longmore, J.; Southerton, J. S.

1990-01-01

1. The actions of diazoxide and minoxidil sulphate have been compared with those of cromakalim in rat aorta and portal vein. 2. Diazoxide and minoxidil sulphate hyperpolarized the rat portal vein in a similar manner to cromakalim. 3. Cromakalim, diazoxide and minoxidil sulphate increased 42K and 86Rb efflux from rat portal vein, although minoxidil sulphate had only a small effect on 86Rb efflux. 4. Cromakalim, diazoxide and minoxidil sulphate increased 42K efflux from rat aorta but only cromakalim and diazoxide increased 86Rb efflux from this tissue. 5. Glibenclamide inhibited the relaxant actions of cromakalim, diazoxide and minoxidil sulphate on rat aorta and the increase in 42K efflux produced by these agents in this tissue. 6. Diazoxide relaxed an 80 mM KCl-induced contraction of rat aorta, whilst cromakalim and minoxidil sulphate were without effect. 7. Cromakalim, diazoxide and minoxidil sulphate had no effect on cyclic AMP or cyclic GMP concentrations in rat aorta. 8. It is concluded that diazoxide and minoxidil sulphate like cromakalim exhibit K+ channel opening properties in vascular smooth muscle. Diazoxide exerts an additional inhibitory action not related to the production of cyclic AMP or cyclic GMP. The action of minoxidil sulphate may be primarily located at a K+ channel which is relatively impermeable to 86Rb. PMID:2167738

The role of nitric oxide synthase in reduced vasocontractile responsiveness induced by prolonged α1-adrenergic receptor stimulation in rat thoracic aorta

PubMed Central

Gürdal, Hakan; Can, Alp; Uğur, Mehmet

2005-01-01

Prolonged exposure (6–12 h) of rat aorta to alpha1-adrenergic receptor (α1AR) agonist phenylephrine (Phe) leads to a decrease in α1AR-mediated vasoconstriction. This reduced responsiveness to α1AR stimulation was strongly dependent on the intactness of the endothelium. We examined the effect of Phe on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity by measuring the conversion of [3H]L-arginine to [3H]L-citrulline in rat aorta or in endothelial cells isolated from rat aorta. Phe stimulation increased NOS activity in control aortas. This response was antagonized by prazosin. However, Phe increased neither the activity of NOS nor intracellular Ca2+ in the isolated endothelial cells from the control aortas, whereas acetylcholine (Ach) was able to stimulate both responses in these cells. This result suggests that Phe stimulates α1AR on vascular smooth muscle cells and has an indirect influence on endothelial cells to increase NOS activity. In Phe-exposed aortic rings, basal NOS activity was found to have increased compared to vehicle-exposed control rings. Stimulation with Phe or Ach caused a small increase over basal NOS activity in these preparations. Prolonged exposure to Phe also caused an enhancement of Ach-mediated vasorelaxation in rat aorta. Immunoblot and reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction experiments showed that prolonged exposure of rat aorta to Phe resulted in an increased expression of eNOS, but not iNOS. This increase was antagonized by nonselective antagonist prazosin. Immunohistochemical staining experiments also showed that expression of eNOS increased in endothelial cells after Phe exposure of the aortas. These results, all together, showed that prolonged exposure of rat aorta to α1AR agonist Phe enhanced the expression of eNOS and basal NOS activity, which probably causes a decreased vasocontractile response to Phe or to other agonists such as 5HT (5-hydroxytryptamine) in rat aorta. This phenomenon can be considered more as a functional antagonism of vasocontractile response to agonists mediated by endothelium than a specific desensitization of α1AR-mediated signalling in vascular smooth muscle cells. PMID:15753950

Endothelial AT₁ and AT₂ pathways in aortic responses to angiotensin II after stress and ethanol consumption in rats.

PubMed

Baptista, Rafaela de Fátima Ferreira; Chies, Agnaldo Bruno; Taipeiro, Elane de Fátima; Cordellini, Sandra

2014-12-01

Stress and ethanol are important cardiovascular risk factors. Their vascular and blood pressure (BP) effects were evaluated alone and in combination. Adult male Wistar rats (8-10 per group) were separated into control, ethanol (ethanol 20% in drinking water for 6 weeks), stress (restraint 1 h/d 5 d/week for 6 weeks), and ethanol/stress (in combination) groups. Systolic BP was evaluated weekly. Concentration-response curves for contractile responses to angiotensin II in the absence and the presence of losartan (AT1-blocker), PD123-319 (AT2-blocker), L-NAME (nitric oxide synthase inhibitor), or indomethacin (cyclooxygenase inhibitor) were obtained in isolated intact and endothelium-denuded aortas. Effective concentration 50% (EC50) and maximum response (MR) were compared among groups using MANOVA/Tukey tests. Stress and stress plus ethanol increased BP. Ethanol and stress, alone and in combination, did not alter angiotensin responses of intact aortas. PD123-319 decreased MR to angiotensin II in intact aortas from the ethanol and ethanol/stress groups relative to control in the presence of PD123-319. Losartan increased MR to angiotensin II in intact aortas from the stress and ethanol/stress groups relative to control in the presence of losartan. None of the protocols altered angiotensin responses of denuded aortas. Neither indomethacin nor L-NAME altered angiotensin responses of intact aortas from the experimental groups. Thus ethanol and ethanol plus stress may alter endothelial signaling via AT1-receptors, without changing systemic BP. Stress and stress plus ethanol may alter endothelial signaling via AT2-receptors, and thereby increase BP. Knowledge of such vascular changes induced by stress and/or ethanol may contribute to understanding adverse cardiovascular effects of stress and ethanol consumption in humans.

Dexmedetomidine-induced Contraction Involves Phosphorylation of Caldesmon by JNK in Endothelium-denuded Rat Aortas

PubMed Central

Baik, Jiseok; Ok, Seong-Ho; Cho, Hyunhoo; Yu, Jongsun; Kim, Woochan; Nam, In-Koo; Choi, Mun-Jeoung; Lee, Heon-Keun; Sohn, Ju-Tae

2014-01-01

Caldesmon, an inhibitory actin binding protein, binds to actin and inhibits actin-myosin interactions, whereas caldesmon phosphorylation reverses the inhibitory effect of caldesmon on actin-myosin interactions, potentially leading to enhanced contraction. The goal of this study was to investigate the cellular signaling pathway responsible for caldesmon phosphorylation, which is involved in the regulation of the contraction induced by dexmedetomidine (DMT), an alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist, in endothelium-denuded rat aortas. SP600125 (a c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase [JNK] inhibitor) dose-response curves were generated in aortas that were pre-contracted with DMT or phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu), a protein kinase C (PKC) activator. Dose-response curves to the PKC inhibitor chelerythrine were generated in rat aortas pre-contracted with DMT. The effects of SP600125 and rauwolscine (an alpha-2 adrenoceptor inhibitor) on DMT-induced caldesmon phosphorylation in rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were investigated by western blot analysis. PDBu-induced caldesmon and DMT-induced PKC phosphorylation in rat aortic VSMCs was investigated by western blot analysis. The effects of GF109203X (a PKC inhibitor) on DMT- or PDBu-induced JNK phosphorylation in VSMCs were assessed. SP600125 resulted in the relaxation of aortas that were pre-contracted with DMT or PDBu, whereas rauwolscine attenuated DMT-induced contraction. Chelerythrine resulted in the vasodilation of aortas pre-contracted with DMT. SP600125 and rauwolscine inhibited DMT-induced caldesmon phosphorylation. Additionally, PDBu induced caldesmon phosphorylation, and GF109203X attenuated the JNK phosphorylation induced by DMT or PDBu. DMT induced PKC phosphorylation in rat aortic VSMCs. These results suggest that alpha-2 adrenoceptor-mediated, DMT-induced contraction involves caldesmon phosphorylation that is mediated by JNK phosphorylation by PKC. PMID:25332685

Tocotrienol Rich Palm Oil Extract Is More Effective Than Pure Tocotrienols at Improving Endothelium-Dependent Relaxation in the Presence of Oxidative Stress

PubMed Central

Ali, Saher F.; Woodman, Owen L.

2015-01-01

Oxidative endothelial dysfunction is a critical initiator of vascular disease. Vitamin E is an effective antioxidant but attempts to use it to treat vascular disorders have been disappointing. This study investigated whether tocotrienols, the less abundant components of vitamin E compared to tocopherols, might be more effective at preserving endothelial function. Superoxide generated by hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase or rat aorta was measured using lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence. The effect of α-tocopherol, α-, δ-, and γ-tocotrienols and a tocotrienol rich palm oil extract (tocomin) on levels of superoxide was assessed. Endothelial function in rat aorta was assessed in the presence of the auto-oxidant pyrogallol. Whilst all of the compounds displayed antioxidant activity, the tocotrienols were more effective when superoxide was produced by hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase whereas tocomin and α-tocopherol were more effective in the isolated aorta. Tocomin and α-tocopherol restored endothelial function in the presence of oxidant stress but α-, δ-, and γ-tocotrienols were ineffective. The protective effect of tocomin was replicated when the tocotrienols were present with, but not without, α-tocopherol. Tocotrienol rich tocomin is more effective than α-tocopherol at reducing oxidative stress and restoring endothelium-dependent relaxation in rat aortae and although α-, δ-, and γ-tocotrienols effectively scavenged superoxide, they did not improve endothelial function. PMID:26075031

Tocotrienol Rich Palm Oil Extract Is More Effective Than Pure Tocotrienols at Improving Endothelium-Dependent Relaxation in the Presence of Oxidative Stress.

PubMed

Ali, Saher F; Woodman, Owen L

2015-01-01

Oxidative endothelial dysfunction is a critical initiator of vascular disease. Vitamin E is an effective antioxidant but attempts to use it to treat vascular disorders have been disappointing. This study investigated whether tocotrienols, the less abundant components of vitamin E compared to tocopherols, might be more effective at preserving endothelial function. Superoxide generated by hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase or rat aorta was measured using lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence. The effect of α-tocopherol, α-, δ-, and γ-tocotrienols and a tocotrienol rich palm oil extract (tocomin) on levels of superoxide was assessed. Endothelial function in rat aorta was assessed in the presence of the auto-oxidant pyrogallol. Whilst all of the compounds displayed antioxidant activity, the tocotrienols were more effective when superoxide was produced by hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase whereas tocomin and α-tocopherol were more effective in the isolated aorta. Tocomin and α-tocopherol restored endothelial function in the presence of oxidant stress but α-, δ-, and γ-tocotrienols were ineffective. The protective effect of tocomin was replicated when the tocotrienols were present with, but not without, α-tocopherol. Tocotrienol rich tocomin is more effective than α-tocopherol at reducing oxidative stress and restoring endothelium-dependent relaxation in rat aortae and although α-, δ-, and γ-tocotrienols effectively scavenged superoxide, they did not improve endothelial function.

Antiatherogenic effect of quercetin is mediated by proteasome inhibition in the aorta and circulating leukocytes.

PubMed

Pashevin, Denis A; Tumanovska, Lesya V; Dosenko, Victor E; Nagibin, Vasyl S; Gurianova, Veronika L; Moibenko, Alexey A

2011-01-01

Quercetin, a plant-derived flavonoid, has attracted considerable attention as promising compound for heart disease prevention and therapy. It has been linked to decreased mortality from heart disease and decreased incidence of stroke. Here, we report new data showing the angioprotective properties of quercetin mediated by its effect on proteasomal proteolysis. This study was designed to investigate the ability of quercetin to modulate proteasomal activity in a rabbit model of cholesterol-induced atherosclerosis. First, we show proteasomal trypsin-like (TL) activity increased up to 2.4-fold, chymotrypsin-like (CTL) activity increased by up to 43% and peptidyl-glutamyl peptide-hydrolyzing (PGPH) activity increased by up to 10% after 8 weeks of a cholesterol-rich diet. A single intravenous injection of the water-soluble form of quercetin (Corvitin) significantly decreased proteasomal TL activity 1.85-fold in monocytes, and decreased the CTL and PGPH activities more than 2-fold in polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) after 2 h. Prolonged administration (1 month) of Corvitin to animals following a cholesterol-rich diet significantly decreased all types of proteolytic proteasome activities both in tissues and in circulating leukocytes and was associated with the reduction of atherosclerotic lesion areas in the aorta. Additionally, the pharmacological form of quercetin (Quertin) was shown to have an antiatherogenic effect and an ability to inhibit proteasome activities.

Dihydroquercetin Does Not Affect Age-Dependent Increase in Blood Pressure and Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Activity in the Aorta of Hypertensive Rats.

PubMed

Slashcheva, G A; Rykov, V A; Lobanov, A V; Murashev, A N; Kim, Yu A; Arutyunyan, T V; Korystova, A F; Kublik, L N; Levitman, M Kh; Shaposhnikona, V V; Korystov, Yu N

2016-09-01

We analyzed changes in angiotensin-converting enzyme activity in the aorta of hypertensive SHR rats against the background of age-related BP increase (from week 7 to 14) and the effect of dihydroquercetin on BP rise and angiotensin-converting enzyme activity. Normotensive WKY rats of the same age were used as the control. BP and activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme in the aorta of SHR rats increased with age. Dihydroquercetin in doses of 100 and 300 μg/kg per day had no effect on the increase of these parameters; dihydroquercetin administered to 14-week-old WKY rats in a dose of 300 μg/kg reduced activity of the angiotensin-converting enzyme. Thus, the early (7-14 weeks) increase in BP and angiotensin-converting enzyme activity in the aorta of SHR rats was not modified by flavonoids (dihydroquercetin) in contrast to other rat strains and humans, which is indicative of specificity of hypertension mechanism in SHR rats.

Infrarenal aorta as the donor site for bypasses to the superior mesenteric artery for chronic mesenteric ischemia: A prospective clinical series of 24 patients.

PubMed

Illuminati, Giulio; Pizzardi, Giulia; Calio', Francesco G; Pasqua, Rocco; Masci, Federica; Vietri, Francesco

2017-11-01

Treatment of symptomatic, chronic mesenteric ischemia is indicated to relieve symptoms and prevent acute ischemia and death. Current therapeutic options include endovascular and open surgery. The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the results of bypasses to the superior mesenteric artery arising from the infrarenal aorta or infrarenal aortic grafts. From January 1999 to December 2016, 24 consecutive patients with a mean age of 61 years underwent a prosthetic bypass to the superior mesenteric artery. Nine patients (37%) presented with an associated clinically important stenosis of the celiac artery and 10 (42%) of the inferior mesenteric artery. Five patients (21%) received preoperative parenteral nutrition. Four patients (17%) underwent dual antiplatelet treatment. The donor site was the infrarenal aorta in 19 patients (79%) and an infrarenal, Dacron graft was used in 5 (21%). The origin of the bypass was from the distal infrarenal aorta or Dacron graft in 19 patients (79%) and from the proximal infrarenal aorta in 5 patients (21%). The graft material consisted of 7 mm polytetrafluoroethylene in 19 cases (79%) and 7 mm Dacron in 5 cases (21%). A concomitant bypass to the inferior mesenteric artery was performed in 4 patients (17%). The primary end points were postoperative mortality, morbidity, graft infection, late survival, primary patency, and symptom-free rate. The secondary end point was postoperative hemorrhagic complications. No postoperative mortality occurred. Postoperative morbidity included a prolonged postoperative ileus in 4 patients (17%), transitory postoperative increases in serum creatinine concentrations in 3 patients (12%), and myocardial ischemia in 2 patients (8%). No postoperative hemorrhagic complications or graft infection were observed. Overall, the cumulative survival rate was 77% at 60 months. The overall late-patency rate and freedom from recurrence of symptoms were both 87% at 60 months. Infrarenal aorta and infrarenal aortic grafts are an excellent source for the revascularization of the superior mesenteric artery. Bypasses to the superior mesenteric artery from the infrarenal aorta, either isolated or associated with adjunctive bypass to the inferior mesenteric artery, yield results that are comparable with those obtained with complete digestive artery revascularization using other donor sources. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of methylene chloride/methanol leaf extract of Celtis durandii engler (Ulmaceae) on constriction of rat aorta.

PubMed

Dimo, T; Ntchapda, F; Atchade, A T; Yewah, M P; Kamtchouing, P; Ngassam, P

2005-07-01

Celtis durandii is a medicinal plant widely used in some part of Cameroon for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders. The vasorelaxant effects of the methylene chloride/methanol leaf extract of C. durandii were examined on isolated rat thoracic aorta. The relaxant effects of C. durandii on vascular preparation from rat aorta precontracted with KCl or norepinephrine was concentration dependent. This relaxing effect was significantly reduced with KCl-induced contraction following mechanical damage to the aortic endothelium. Relaxation elicited by C. durandii was not significantly affected by glibenclamide (10(-6) M), a selective inhibitor of K-ATP-dependent channels or tetraethylammonium (10(-6) M), a non selective K+ channel blocker. Indomethacin (10(-6) M) significantly inhibited relaxation induced by the plant extract. These findings indicate that the vasorelaxation effect of the methylene chloride/methanol leaf extract of C. durandii may be mediated at least in part by prostacyclin.

Novel Models to Study Effect of High-Altitude Hypoxic Exposure and Placental Insufficency on Fetal Oxygen Metabolism and Congenital Heart Defects

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-10-01

normally present, such as the 4-chambered heart, the great vessels ( aorta , pulmonary arteries) and their anatomic relationships. A notable abnormality in...connections with the ventricles ( aorta to the left ventricle and pulmonary artery to the right ventricle). These are the most common sites of human...the septum. AO, Aorta ; PA, DoD Award # W81XWH-15-1-0238 Annual Report 21 Figure 5. MATcKO Hif-1α causes reduction in uterine Natural

Effect of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester on Vascular Damage Caused by Consumption of High Fructose Corn Syrup in Rats

PubMed Central

Gun, Aburrahman; Bilgic, Sedat; Kocaman, Nevin; Ozan, Gonca

2016-01-01

Fructose corn syrup is cheap sweetener and prolongs the shelf life of products, but fructose intake causes hyperinsulinemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and hypertension. All of them are referred to as metabolic syndrome and they are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Hence, the harmful effects of increased fructose intake on health and their prevention should take greater consideration. Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) has beneficial effects on metabolic syndrome and vascular function which is important in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, there are no known studies about the effect of CAPE on fructose-induced vascular dysfunction. In this study, we examined the effect of CAPE on vascular dysfunction due to high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). HFCS (6 weeks, 30% fed with drinking water) caused vascular dysfunction, but treatment with CAPE (50 micromol/kg i.p. for the last two weeks) effectively restored this problem. Additionally, hypertension in HFCS-fed rats was also decreased in CAPE supplemented rats. CAPE supplements lowered HFCS consumption-induced raise in blood glucose, homocysteine, and cholesterol levels. The aorta tissue endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) production was decreased in rats given HFCS and in contrast CAPE supplementation efficiently increased its production. The presented results showed that HFCS-induced cardiovascular abnormalities could be prevented by CAPE treatment. PMID:27042260

Effect of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester on Vascular Damage Caused by Consumption of High Fructose Corn Syrup in Rats.

PubMed

Gun, Aburrahman; Ozer, Mehmet Kaya; Bilgic, Sedat; Kocaman, Nevin; Ozan, Gonca

2016-01-01

Fructose corn syrup is cheap sweetener and prolongs the shelf life of products, but fructose intake causes hyperinsulinemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and hypertension. All of them are referred to as metabolic syndrome and they are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Hence, the harmful effects of increased fructose intake on health and their prevention should take greater consideration. Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) has beneficial effects on metabolic syndrome and vascular function which is important in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, there are no known studies about the effect of CAPE on fructose-induced vascular dysfunction. In this study, we examined the effect of CAPE on vascular dysfunction due to high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). HFCS (6 weeks, 30% fed with drinking water) caused vascular dysfunction, but treatment with CAPE (50 micromol/kg i.p. for the last two weeks) effectively restored this problem. Additionally, hypertension in HFCS-fed rats was also decreased in CAPE supplemented rats. CAPE supplements lowered HFCS consumption-induced raise in blood glucose, homocysteine, and cholesterol levels. The aorta tissue endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) production was decreased in rats given HFCS and in contrast CAPE supplementation efficiently increased its production. The presented results showed that HFCS-induced cardiovascular abnormalities could be prevented by CAPE treatment.

Hydroxytyrosol and its complex forms (secoiridoids) modulate aorta and heart proteome in healthy rats: Potential cardio-protective effects.

PubMed

Catalán, Úrsula; Rubió, Laura; López de Las Hazas, Maria-Carmen; Herrero, Pol; Nadal, Pedro; Canela, Núria; Pedret, Anna; Motilva, Maria-José; Solà, Rosa

2016-10-01

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is the major phenolic compound in virgin olive oil (VOO) in both free and complex forms (secoiridoids; SEC). Proteomics of cardiovascular tissues such as aorta or heart represents a promising tool to uncover the mechanisms of action of phenolic compounds in healthy animals. Twelve female Wistar rats were separated into three groups: a standard diet and two diets supplemented in phenolic compounds (HT and SEC) adjusted to 5 mg/kg/day during 21 days. Proteomic analyses of aorta and heart tissues were performed by nano-LC and MS. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis was used to generate interaction networks. HT or SEC modulated aorta and heart proteome compared to the standard diet. The top-scored networks were related to Cardiovascular System. HT and SEC downregulated proteins related to proliferation and migration of endothelial cells and occlusion of blood vessels in aorta and proteins related to heart failure in heart tissue. SEC showed higher fold change values compared to HT, attributed to higher concentration of HT detected in heart tissue. Changes at proteomic level in cardiovascular tissues may partially account for the underlying mechanisms of VOO phenols cardiovascular protection being the SEC effects higher than free HT. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Acute rupture of the descending thoracic aorta: repair with use of endovascular stent-grafts.

PubMed

Semba, C P; Kato, N; Kee, S T; Lee, G K; Mitchell, R S; Miller, D C; Dake, M D

1997-01-01

To describe the use of endovascular stent-grafts to treat acute ruptures of the descending thoracic aorta as an alternative to surgery in high-risk patients. From July 1992 to August 1996, 95 patients underwent stent-grafting of the descending thoracic aorta for a variety of lesions. Of these, 11 patients with acute (< or = 7 days) rupture from aneurysms (n = 8) or trauma (n = 3) underwent repair with use of endovascular stent-grafts. Rupture was confirmed with preoperative imaging studies and occurred in the mediastinum (n = 9), the pleural space (n = 1), or the lung (n = 1). All patients were considered high surgical risk due to generalized cardiopulmonary disease and/or previous thoracotomies. Stent-grafts were constructed from Z stents covered with polyester fabric and delivered through a catheter under fluoroscopic control from a remote access site. Stent-graft deployment was successful in all patients. There were no complications of perigraft leak, stent migration, paraplegia, or intraoperative death. Two patients died in the follow-up period: one of ventricular perforation during unrelated thoracic surgery for tumor resection (day 1) and one of cardiac arrest (day 28). All others are alive (mean follow-up, 15.1 months). For acute rupture of the thoracic aorta, endovascular stent-graft repair is technically feasible and may be a therapeutic alternative to a surgical interposition graft in patients considered high risk for conventional thoracotomy. Long-term studies are necessary to determine the role of stent-grafts in preventing future aortic rupture.

Assessment of a Polyester-Covered Nitinol Stent in the Canine Aorta and Iliac Arteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Castaneda, Flavio; Ball-Kell, Susan M.; Young, Kate

Purpose: To evaluate the patency and healing characteristics of a woven polyester fabric-covered stent in the canine model.Methods: Twenty-four self-expanding covered stents were placed in the infrarenal aorta and bilateral common iliac arteries of eight dogs and evaluated at 1 (n = 2), 3 (n = 2), and 6 (n = 4) months. Stent assessment was done using angiography prior to euthanasia, and light and scanning electron microscopy.Results: Angiographically, just prior to euthanasia, 8 of 8 aortic and 14 of 16 iliac endovascular covered stents were patent. Histologically, the stented regions showed complete endothelialization 6 months after graft implantation. Amore » neointima had formed inside the stented vessel regions resulting in complete encasement of the fabric-covered stent by 3 months after graft implantation. Medial compression with smooth muscle cell atrophy was present in all stented regions. Explanted stent wires, examined by scanning electron microscopy, showed pitting but no cracks or breakage.Conclusion: The covered stent demonstrated predictable healing and is effective in preventing stenosis in vessels 10.0 mm or greater in diameter but does not completely preclude stenosis in vessels 6.0 mm or less in diameter.« less

Regional distribution of circumferential residual strains in the human aorta according to age and gender.

PubMed

Sokolis, Dimitrios P; Savva, Giannis D; Papadodima, Stavroula A; Kourkoulis, Stavros K

2017-03-01

The biomechanical response of the human aorta varies with axial location, but little is known about the respective variation of residual strains. Such data are available for common lab animals, but in the traditional opening angle measurement the aorta is considered as an ideal cylinder and average residual strains are measured, so that the spatial variations of local residual strains are not determined. The present study provides opening angle and residual strain data throughout the course and around the circumference of the aorta harvested during autopsy. Opening angle showed notable topographical variation; the highest value was at the top of aortic arch, declining abruptly toward the ascending aorta and to a near-constant value in the descending aorta, and rising in the abdominal aorta. The variation of curvature and of external but not internal residual stretch resembled that of opening angle. Extensive residual stress and wall thickness differences were evidenced among quadrants, with the more pre-stressed being also the thicker quadrants. Gender had overall minor effects, but aging led to increased parameters, occurring earlier in the distal aorta but at later stages becoming predominant proximally. Differences in caliber were pronounced in older subjects, unlike those in opening angle, residual stretches, and thickness that were striking in middle-aged subjects. By contrast, curvature decreased with aging in relation to the smaller percentwise opening angle differences. Detailed knowledge of the zero-stress/no-load geometry of the human aortic wall is critical for an in-depth understanding of aortic physiology, while providing the basis for comparison with disease. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Acute increases in arterial blood pressure produced by occlusion of the abdominal aorta induces antinociception: peripheral and central substrates.

PubMed

Thurston, C L; Randich, A

1990-06-11

Occlusion of the abdominal aorta proximal to the renal arteries results in an increase in arterial blood pressure, inhibition of forepaw and hindpaw withdrawal to a noxious mechanical stimulus, and inhibition of the tail-flick reflex to noxious heat. Occlusion of the abdominal aorta distal to the renal arteries does not elevate arterial blood pressure and produces no antinociceptive effects. Occlusion of the vena cava lowers arterial blood pressure and produces no antinociception. The inhibitory effects of occlusion of the abdominal aorta depend upon activation of high pressure baroreceptors since bilateral sinoaortic denervation, but not bilateral vagotomy, eliminates the inhibition with respect to all behavioral measures. The inhibitory effects with respect to the tail-flick reflex also depend upon activation of a descending inhibitory system since reversible cold block of the spinal cord at the level of the second thoracic vertebra eliminates the antinociception. This antinociception is also eliminated following intrathecal administration of the noradrenergic receptor antagonist phentolamine, but not by intrathecal administration of either methysergide or naloxone. These data support the view that activation of high pressure baroreceptors by increases in arterial blood pressure produces antinociception via activation of a spinopetal noradrenergic system.

Stenting complex aorta aneurysms with the Cardiatis multilayer flow modulator: first impressions.

PubMed

Debing, E; Aerden, D; Gallala, S; Vandenbroucke, F; Van den Brande, P

2014-06-01

Our aim was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of the Cardiatis multilayer flow modulator in the treatment of complex aorta aneurysms. This is a single-center prospective registry. Six patients (4 males and 2 females; mean age 74 years) with complex aorta aneurysms (unsuitable for endovascular repair with standard, fenestrated, or branched stent grafts) were treated with the Cardiatis multilayer flow modulator. Clinical success was 100%. Median follow-up was 10 months. One patient died the third postoperative day due to aneurysm rupture. Four aneurysms were completely thrombosed between 1 and 6 months after the procedure. The patency of the covered aortic branches was 100%. At 6 months, the sac volume was decreased in two patients, increased in two patients and remains stable in one patient. There were no stent migrations, retractions, thrombosis, fractures, or reinterventions. The device preserves flow into the covered aortic branches and completed aneurysm thrombosis occurs gradually; however, the stent did not prevent rupture immediately after the implantation. Longer follow-up is mandatory to prove the efficacy of this technology. Copyright © 2014 European Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Endothelium-Dependent and -Independent Vasodilator Effects of Dimethyl Sulfoxide in Rat Aorta.

PubMed

Kaneda, Takeharu; Sasaki, Noriyasu; Urakawa, Norimoto; Shimizu, Kazumasa

2016-01-01

This study examined the mechanism of vasorelaxation induced by dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in endothelium-intact and -denuded rat aorta. DMSO (0.1-3%) inhibited phenylephrine (PE, 1 μmol/l)-induced contraction in a dose-dependent manner. However, this relaxation was lower in the absence of the endothelium. Increase in DMSO-induced relaxation in the presence of the endothelium was attenuated by preincubation in L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 100 μmol/l) and by the removal of the endothelium. In the aorta with endothelium, DMSO (3%) and CCh (3 μmol/l) increased cGMP contents, significantly and L-NAME (100 μmol/l) inhibited the DMSO-induced increases of cGMP. In fura 2-loaded endothelium-denuded aorta, cumulative application of DMSO (1-3%) inhibited PE-induced muscle tension; however, this application did not affect the [Ca2+]i level. In PE-precontracted endothelium-denuded aorta, relaxation responses to fasudil were significantly less in the presence of DMSO compared to the control. These results suggest that DMSO causes relaxation by increasing the cGMP content in correlation with the release of NO from endothelial cells and by decreasing the Ca2+ sensitivity of contractile elements partly via inhibiting Rho-kinase in rat aorta. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Pulsatile Hyperglycaemia Induces Vascular Oxidative Stress and GLUT 1 Expression More Potently than Sustained Hyperglycaemia in Rats on High Fat Diet

PubMed Central

Rakipovski, Günaj; Lykkesfeldt, Jens; Raun, Kirsten

2016-01-01

Introduction Pulsatile hyperglycaemia resulting in oxidative stress may play an important role in the development of macrovascular complications. We investigated the effects of sustained vs. pulsatile hyperglycaemia in insulin resistant rats on markers of oxidative stress, enzyme expression and glucose metabolism in liver and aorta. We hypothesized that liver’s ability to regulate the glucose homeostasis under varying states of hyperglycaemia may indirectly affect oxidative stress status in aorta despite the amount of glucose challenged with. Methods Animals were infused with sustained high (SHG), low (SLG), pulsatile (PLG) glucose or saline (VEH) for 96 h. Oxidative stress status and key regulators of glucose metabolism in liver and aorta were investigated. Results Similar response in plasma lipid oxidation was observed in PLG as in SHG. Likewise, in aorta, PLG and SHG displayed increased expression of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), gp-91PHOX and super oxide dismutase (SOD), while only the PLG group showed increased accumulation of oxidative stress and oxidised low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in aorta. Conclusion Pulsatile hyperglycaemia induced relatively higher levels of oxidative stress systemically and in aorta in particular than overt sustained hyperglycaemia thus supporting the clinical observations that pulsatile hyperglycaemia is an independent risk factor for diabetes related macrovascular complications. PMID:26790104

Pulsatile Hyperglycaemia Induces Vascular Oxidative Stress and GLUT 1 Expression More Potently than Sustained Hyperglycaemia in Rats on High Fat Diet.

PubMed

Rakipovski, Günaj; Lykkesfeldt, Jens; Raun, Kirsten

2016-01-01

Pulsatile hyperglycaemia resulting in oxidative stress may play an important role in the development of macrovascular complications. We investigated the effects of sustained vs. pulsatile hyperglycaemia in insulin resistant rats on markers of oxidative stress, enzyme expression and glucose metabolism in liver and aorta. We hypothesized that liver's ability to regulate the glucose homeostasis under varying states of hyperglycaemia may indirectly affect oxidative stress status in aorta despite the amount of glucose challenged with. Animals were infused with sustained high (SHG), low (SLG), pulsatile (PLG) glucose or saline (VEH) for 96 h. Oxidative stress status and key regulators of glucose metabolism in liver and aorta were investigated. Similar response in plasma lipid oxidation was observed in PLG as in SHG. Likewise, in aorta, PLG and SHG displayed increased expression of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), gp-91PHOX and super oxide dismutase (SOD), while only the PLG group showed increased accumulation of oxidative stress and oxidised low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in aorta. Pulsatile hyperglycaemia induced relatively higher levels of oxidative stress systemically and in aorta in particular than overt sustained hyperglycaemia thus supporting the clinical observations that pulsatile hyperglycaemia is an independent risk factor for diabetes related macrovascular complications.

Ca(2+)-channel blockade in rat thoracic aorta by protopine isolated from Corydalis tubers.

PubMed

Ko, F N; Wu, T S; Lu, S T; Wu, Y C; Huang, T F; Teng, C M

1992-01-01

The pharmacological properties and mechanism of the action of protopine on isolated rat thoracic aorta were examined. It inhibited norepinephrine (NE, 3 microM)-induced tonic contraction in rat thoracic aorta in a concentration-dependent manner (25-100 micrograms/ml). The phasic contraction caused by NE was inhibited only by a high concentration of protopine (100 micrograms/ml). At the plateau of NE-induced tonic contraction, the addition of protopine also caused relaxation. This relaxing effect of protopine was not antagonized by indomethacin (20 microM) or methylene blue (50 microM), and it still existed in denuded rat aorta or in the presence of nifedipine (2-100 microM). Protopine also inhibited high potassium (60 mM)-induced, calcium-dependent (0.03-3 mM) contraction of rat aorta in a concentration-dependent manner. Neither cAMP nor cGMP level was changed by protopine. Both the formation of inositol monophosphate caused by NE and the phasic contraction induced by caffeine were also not affected by protopine. 45Ca2+ influx caused by either NE or K+ was inhibited by protopine concentration-dependently. It is concluded that protopine relaxed the rat thoracic aorta mainly by suppressing the Ca2+ influx through both voltage- and receptor-operated calcium channels.

Adenine Inhibits TNF-α Signaling in Intestinal Epithelial Cells and Reduces Mucosal Inflammation in a Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis Mouse Model.

PubMed

Fukuda, Toshihiko; Majumder, Kaustav; Zhang, Hua; Turner, Patricia V; Matsui, Toshiro; Mine, Yoshinori

2016-06-01

Adenine (6-amino-6H-purine), found in molokheiya (Corchorus olitorius L.), has exerted vasorelaxation effects in the thoracic aorta. However, the mode of action of the anti-inflammatory effect of adenine is unclear. Thus, we investigated to clarify the effect of adenine on chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. In intestinal epithelial cells, adenine significantly inhibited tumor necrosis factor-α-induced interleukin-8 secretion. The inhibition of adenine was abolished under the treatment of inhibitors of adenyl cyclase (AC) and protein kinase A (PKA), indicating the effect of adenine was mediated through the AC/PKA pathway. Adenine (5, 10, and 50 mg/kg BW/day) was administered orally for 14 days to female BALB/c mice, and then 5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was given to induce colitis. Adenine (5 mg/kg BW/day) significantly prevented DSS-induced colon shortening, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and histological damage in the colon. These results suggest that adenine can be a promising nutraceutical for the prevention of intestinal inflammation.

Protection by scoparone against the alterations of plasma lipoproteins, vascular morphology and vascular reactivity in hyperlipidaemic diabetic rabbit.

PubMed

Huang, H C; Weng, Y I; Lee, C R; Jan, T R; Chen, Y L; Lee, Y T

1993-12-01

1. The in vivo pharmacological effects of scoparone (6,7-dimethoxycoumarin) in a hyperlipidaemic diabetic rabbit model were investigated. 2. Three groups of rabbits were studied: (1) normal, (2) hyperlipidaemic and diabetic-untreated and (3) hyperlipidaemic and diabetic-scoparone treated. The hyperlipidaemic diabetic rabbits were fed with 1% cholesterol and treated with alloxan, a diabetogenic agent. The plasma levels of total cholesterol, total triglyceride, very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were markedly increased as soon as the rabbit became diabetic at the second week. Scoparone-treatment (5 mg kg-1 day-1, s.c.) significantly reduced the plasma lipid and lipoprotein cholesterol levels of the hyperlipidaemic diabetic rabbit to 73.3% of total cholesterol, 48.3% of total triglyceride, 66.0% of VLDL cholesterol, 55.7% of LDL cholesterol and 79.5% of HDL cholesterol. 3. Six weeks after cholesterol-feeding, the aortic arch and thoracic aorta were dissected for morphological and functional studies. In vascular rings from the untreated hyperlipidaemic diabetic rabbit, there was intimal thickening with accumulation of fatty streaks, foam cells and migration of smooth muscle cells to the intima. In the rabbits treated with scoparone, there were fewer pathological morphology changes found in vascular segments than in the untreated hyperlipidaemic diabetic rabbits. 4. In the vascular reactivity experiments, the phenylephrine-induced contraction and nitroprusside induced dilatation did not differ significantly among the three rabbit groups, except that the contraction was enhanced in the thoracic aorta of hyperlipidaemic diabetic rabbits either untreated or treated withscoparone, as compared to the normal group, and the sensitivity to nitroprusside was increased in the thoracic aorta of the scoparone-treated group as compared to the untreated group.5. The endothelium-dependent dilatation induced by acetylcholine was significantly attenuated in both the aortic arch and thoracic aorta from the hyperlipidaemic diabetic rabbits as compared to the normal rabbits. This attenuation was partially prevented, when scoparone (5 mg kg-1) was administered daily.6. These results suggest that scoparone protects against some alterations of plasma lipoproteins,vascular morphology and vascular reactivity in the hyperlipidaemic diabetic rabbit. These protective effects of scoparone may be partly related to its free radical scavenging property.

Comparison of the Protective Effects of Individual Components of Particulated trans-Sialidase (PTCTS), PTC and TS, against High Cholesterol Diet-Induced Atherosclerosis in Rabbits.

PubMed

Garavelo, Shérrira M; Higuchi, Maria de Lourdes; Pereira, Jaqueline J; Reis, Marcia M; Kawakami, Joyce T; Ikegami, Renata N; Palomino, Suely A P; Wadt, Nilsa S Y; Agouni, Abdelali

2017-01-01

Previous studies showed the presence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae ( M. pneumoniae ) and membrane-shed microparticles (MPs) in vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques. H&S Science and Biotechnology developed PTCTS, composed by natural particles from medicinal plants (PTC) combined with trans -Sialidase (TS), to combat MPs and Mycoplasma pneumoniae . Our aim was to determine the effects of the different components of PTCTS in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis. Rabbits were fed with high cholesterol diet for 12 weeks and treated during the last 6 weeks with either vehicle, PTC, TS, or PTCTS. Lipid profile and quantification of MPs positive for Mycoplasma pneumoniae and oxidized LDL antigens were carried out. Aortas and organs were then histologically analyzed. PTCTS reduced circulating MPs positive for Mycoplasma pneumoniae and oxidized LDL antigens, reduced the plaque area in the abdominal aorta, and caused positive remodeling of the ascendant aorta. PTC caused positive remodeling and reduced plaque area in the abdominal aorta; however, TS had a lipid lowering effect. PTCTS components combined were more effective against atherosclerosis than individual components. Our data reinforce the infectious theory of atherosclerosis and underscore the potential role of circulating MPs. Therefore, the removal of Mycoplasma -derived MPs could be a new therapeutic approach in the treatment of atherosclerosis.

Geodesic Distance Algorithm for Extracting the Ascending Aorta from 3D CT Images

PubMed Central

Jang, Yeonggul; Jung, Ho Yub; Hong, Youngtaek; Cho, Iksung; Shim, Hackjoon; Chang, Hyuk-Jae

2016-01-01

This paper presents a method for the automatic 3D segmentation of the ascending aorta from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). The segmentation is performed in three steps. First, the initial seed points are selected by minimizing a newly proposed energy function across the Hough circles. Second, the ascending aorta is segmented by geodesic distance transformation. Third, the seed points are effectively transferred through the next axial slice by a novel transfer function. Experiments are performed using a database composed of 10 patients' CCTA images. For the experiment, the ground truths are annotated manually on the axial image slices by a medical expert. A comparative evaluation with state-of-the-art commercial aorta segmentation algorithms shows that our approach is computationally more efficient and accurate under the DSC (Dice Similarity Coefficient) measurements. PMID:26904151

Flow visualisation study of spiral flow in the aorta-renal bifurcation.

PubMed

Fulker, David; Javadzadegan, Ashkan; Li, Zuming; Barber, Tracie

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to analyse the flow dynamics in an idealised model of the aorta-renal bifurcation using flow visualisation, with a particular focus on the effect of aorta-to-renal flow ratio and flow spirality. The recirculation length was longest when there was low flow in the renal artery and smaller in the presence of spiral flow. The results also indicate that patients without spiral flow or who have low flow in the renal artery due to the presence of stenosis may be susceptible to heightened development of atherosclerotic lesions.

Effect of coarctation of the aorta and bicuspid aortic valve on flow dynamics and turbulence in the aorta using particle image velocimetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keshavarz-Motamed, Zahra; Garcia, Julio; Gaillard, Emmanuel; Maftoon, Nima; Di Labbio, Giuseppe; Cloutier, Guy; Kadem, Lyes

2014-03-01

Blood flow in the aorta has been of particular interest from both fluid dynamics and physiology perspectives. Coarctation of the aorta (COA) is a congenital heart disease corresponding to a severe narrowing in the aortic arch. Up to 85 % of patients with COA have a pathological aortic valve, leading to a narrowing at the valve level. The aim of the present work was to advance the state of understanding of flow through a COA to investigate how narrowing in the aorta (COA) affects the characteristics of the velocity field and, in particular, turbulence development. For this purpose, particle image velocimetry measurements were conducted at physiological flow and pressure conditions, with three different aorta configurations: (1) normal case: normal aorta + normal aortic valve; (2) isolated COA: COA (with 75 % reduction in aortic cross-sectional area) + normal aortic valve and (3) complex COA: COA (with 75 % reduction in aortic cross-sectional area) + pathological aortic valve. Viscous shear stress (VSS), representing the physical shear stress, Reynolds shear stress (RSS), representing the turbulent shear stress, and turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), representing the intensity of fluctuations in the fluid flow environment, were calculated for all cases. Results show that, compared with a healthy aorta, the instantaneous velocity streamlines and vortices were deeply changed in the presence of the COA. The normal aorta did not display any regions of elevated VSS, RSS and TKE at any moment of the cardiac cycle. The magnitudes of these parameters were elevated for both isolated COA and complex COA, with their maximum values mainly being located inside the eccentric jet downstream of the COA. However, the presence of a pathologic aortic valve, in complex COA, amplifies VSS (e.g., average absolute peak value in the entire aorta for a total flow of 5 L/min: complex COA: = 36 N/m2; isolated COA = 19 N/m2), RSS (e.g., average peak value in the entire aorta for a total flow of 5 L/min: complex COA: = 84.6 N/m2; isolated COA = 44 N/m2) and TKE (e.g., average peak value in the entire aorta for a total flow of 5 L/min: complex COA: = 215 N/m2; isolated COA = 100 N/m2). This demonstrates that the pathological aortic valve strongly interacts with the COA. Findings of this study indicate that the presence of both a COA and a pathological aortic valve significantly alters hemodynamics in the aorta and thus might contribute to the progression of the disease in this region. This study can partially explain the complications associated in patients with COA, in the presence of a pathological aortic valve and the consequent adverse outcome post-surgery.

Taxifolin and Fucoidin Abolish the Irradiation-Induced Increase in the Production of Reactive Oxygen Species in Rat Aorta.

PubMed

Arutyunyan, T V; Korystova, A F; Kublik, L N; Levitman, M Kh; Shaposhnikova, V V; Korystov, Yu N

2016-03-01

We studied changes in ROS content in the aorta of Wistar rats at early terms after irradiation in doses equal to single fraction used in tumor radiotherapy and the effects of taxifolin and fucoidin, blockers of leukocyte adhesion to endothelium, on ROS content. Male rats were exposed to X-rays (200 kW) in doses of 1-7.5 Gy. ROS production in aorta segments was measured in 1-48 h after irradiation by dichlorodihydrofluorescein oxidation. The content of ROS in the aorta of rats exposed to radiation in doses of 1-2.5 Gy increased in 1-24 h after irradiation, the peak ROS content was found in 2 h after irradiation. Taxifolin (100 μg/kg dihydroquercetin once a day with drinking water) and fucoidin (10 mg/kg, i.v.) abolished ROS accumulation. The content of ROS in rat aorta increased in 1-24 h after irradiation in doses used for tumor radiotherapy and this increase can be determined by leukocyte adhesion to the endothelium.

Coarctation of the Aorta (For Teens)

MedlinePlus

... for Educators Search English Español Coarctation of the Aorta KidsHealth / For Teens / Coarctation of the Aorta What's ... español Estrechamiento aórtico What Is Coarctation of the Aorta? The aorta (pronounced: ay-OR-tuh) is the ...

59th Medical Wing Office of the Chief Scientists Research Highlights Flyer-April 2016

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-09

Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA Inventors: Col Todd Rasmussen, MC, USAF MEDCOM USAMRMC and Jonathan Eliason, MD, University of Michigan) Is a fluoroscopy-free...thoracic aortic balloon occlusion system to control non-compressible hemorrh and assess the effect of an occluding aorta . Research to develop the

Effect of the positioning of a balloon valve in the aorta on coronary flow during aortic regurgitation.

PubMed

Antonatos, P G; Anthopoulos, L P; Kandyla, D D; Karras, A D; Moulopoulos, S D

1984-07-01

The coronary artery flow changes relative to the function of a catheter-mounted balloon valve used for relief of aortic regurgitation were studied in 10 mongrel dogs. Acute aortic regurgitation was produced by severing the aortic cusps with a long needle. Coronary flow was recorded from the left anterior descending coronary artery through an electromagnetic flowmeter. When the balloon was functioning within the cavity of the left ventricle there were no significant changes in the coronary flow and aortic pressure, except for a slight decrease in the aortic end-diastolic pressure. When it was functioning in the aortic ring the coronary flow increased 6.52 +/- 1.65 ml/min/100 gm of myocardium (p less than 0.001) and became predominantly diastolic. When it was functioning in the ascending aorta the coronary flow decreased 6.22 +/- 1.16 ml/min/100 gm of myocardium (p less than 0.001) and remained predominantly systolic. Finally, when the balloon was functioning in the thoracic aorta the coronary flow did not change significantly. With the balloon functioning in the aortic ring, ascending aorta, or thoracic aorta, there was a significant increase in the aortic end-diastolic pressure and decrease in the pulse pressure distal to the location of the balloon. It is concluded that the location of the balloon valve inserted for relief of aortic regurgitation influences the effect on coronary arterial flow.

Acute ethanol intake induces superoxide anion generation and mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation in rat aorta: A role for angiotensin type 1 receptor

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yogi, Alvaro; Callera, Glaucia E.; Mecawi, André S.

Ethanol intake is associated with increase in blood pressure, through unknown mechanisms. We hypothesized that acute ethanol intake enhances vascular oxidative stress and induces vascular dysfunction through renin–angiotensin system (RAS) activation. Ethanol (1 g/kg; p.o. gavage) effects were assessed within 30 min in male Wistar rats. The transient decrease in blood pressure induced by ethanol was not affected by the previous administration of losartan (10 mg/kg; p.o. gavage), a selective AT{sub 1} receptor antagonist. Acute ethanol intake increased plasma renin activity (PRA), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity, plasma angiotensin I (ANG I) and angiotensin II (ANG II) levels. Ethanol inducedmore » systemic and vascular oxidative stress, evidenced by increased plasma thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances (TBARS) levels, NAD(P)H oxidase‐mediated vascular generation of superoxide anion and p47phox translocation (cytosol to membrane). These effects were prevented by losartan. Isolated aortas from ethanol-treated rats displayed increased p38MAPK and SAPK/JNK phosphorylation. Losartan inhibited ethanol-induced increase in the phosphorylation of these kinases. Ethanol intake decreased acetylcholine-induced relaxation and increased phenylephrine-induced contraction in endothelium-intact aortas. Ethanol significantly decreased plasma and aortic nitrate levels. These changes in vascular reactivity and in the end product of endogenous nitric oxide metabolism were not affected by losartan. Our study provides novel evidence that acute ethanol intake stimulates RAS activity and induces vascular oxidative stress and redox-signaling activation through AT{sub 1}-dependent mechanisms. These findings highlight the importance of RAS in acute ethanol-induced oxidative damage. -- Highlights: ► Acute ethanol intake stimulates RAS activity and vascular oxidative stress. ► RAS plays a role in acute ethanol-induced oxidative damage via AT{sub 1} receptor activation. ► Translocation of p47phox and MAPKs phosphorylation are downstream effectors. ► Acute ethanol consumption increases the risk for acute vascular injury.« less

Dendrobium officinale Prevents Early Complications in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

PubMed Central

Hou, Shao-zhen; Liang, Chu-yan; Liu, Hua-zhen; Zhu, Dong-mei; Wu, Ya-yun; Liang, Jian; Zhao, Ya; Guo, Jian-ru; Huang, Song; Lai, Xiao-Ping

2016-01-01

Background. Dendrobium officinale (DO) Kimura et Migo is a precious Chinese herb that is considered beneficial for health due to its antioxidant and antidiabetes properties, and so on. In this research, we try to determine the preventive effect of DO on the early complications of STZ-induced diabetic rats. Methods. Type 1 diabetic rats were produced with a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (50 mg/kg). DO (1 g/kg/day) was then orally administered for 5 weeks. Blood glucose, TC, TG, BUN, CREA, and GSH-PX levels were determined, and electroretinographic activity and hypoalgesia were investigated. Pathological sections of the eyes, hearts, aortas, kidneys, and livers were analyzed. Results. Treatment with DO significantly attenuated the serum levels of TC, TG, BUN, and CREA, markedly increased the amplitudes of ERG a- and b-waves and Ops, and reduced the hypoalgesia and histopathological changes of vital organs induced by hyperglycemia. The protective effect of DO in diabetic rats may be associated with its antioxidant activity, as evidenced by the marked increase in the serum level of glutathione peroxidase. However, DO had no significant effect on blood glucose levels and bodyweight of diabetic rats. Conclusions. DO supplementation is an effective treatment to prevent STZ-induced diabetic complications. PMID:27034693

EMMPRIN-Mediated Induction of Uterine and Vascular Matrix Metalloproteinases during Pregnancy and in Response to Estrogen and Progesterone

PubMed Central

Dang, Yiping; Li, Wei; Tran, Victoria; Khalil, Raouf A.

2013-01-01

Pregnancy is associated with uteroplacental and vascular remodeling in order to adapt for the growing fetus and the hemodynamic changes in the maternal circulation. We have previously shown upregulation of uterine matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) during pregnancy. Whether pregnancy-associated changes in MMPs are localized to the uterus or are generalized in feto-placental and maternal circulation is unclear. Also, the mechanisms causing the changes in uteroplacental and vascular MMPs during pregnancy are unclear. MMPs expression, activity and tissue distribution were measured in uterus, placenta and aorta of virgin, mid-pregnant (mid-Preg) and late pregnant (late-Preg) rats. Western blots and gelatin zymography revealed increases in MMP-2 and -9 in uterus and aorta of late-Preg compared with virgin and mid-Preg rats. In contrast, MMP-2 and -9 were decreased in placenta of late-Preg versus mid-Preg rats. Extracellular MMP inducer (EMMPRIN) was increased in uterus and aorta of pregnant rats, but was less in placenta of late-Preg than mid-Preg rats. Prolonged treatment of uterus or aorta of virgin rats with 17β-estradiol and progesterone increased the amount of EMMPRIN, MMP-2 and -9, and the sex hormone-induced increases in MMPs were prevented by EMMPRIN neutralizing antibody. Immunohistochemistry revealed that MMP-2 and -9 and EMMPRIN increased in uterus and aorta of pregnant rats, but decreased in placenta of late-Preg versus mid-Preg rats. Thus pregnancy-associated upregulation of uterine MMPs is paralleled by increased vascular MMPs, and both are mediated by EMMPRIN and induced by estrogen and progesterone, suggesting similar role of MMPs in uterine and vascular tissue remodeling and function during pregnancy. The decreased MMPs and EMMPRIN in placenta of late-Preg rats suggests reduced role of MMPs in feto-placental circulation during late pregnancy. PMID:23856290

Redox stress in Marfan syndrome: Dissecting the role of the NADPH oxidase NOX4 in aortic aneurysm.

PubMed

Jiménez-Altayó, Francesc; Meirelles, Thayna; Crosas-Molist, Eva; Sorolla, M Alba; Del Blanco, Darya Gorbenko; López-Luque, Judit; Mas-Stachurska, Aleksandra; Siegert, Ana-Maria; Bonorino, Fabio; Barberà, Laura; García, Carolina; Condom, Enric; Sitges, Marta; Rodríguez-Pascual, Fernando; Laurindo, Francisco; Schröder, Katrin; Ros, Joaquim; Fabregat, Isabel; Egea, Gustavo

2018-04-01

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is characterized by the formation of ascending aortic aneurysms resulting from altered assembly of extracellular matrix fibrillin-containing microfibrils and dysfunction of TGF-β signaling. Here we identify the molecular targets of redox stress in aortic aneurysms from MFS patients, and investigate the role of NOX4, whose expression is strongly induced by TGF-β, in aneurysm formation and progression in a murine model of MFS. Working models included aortae and cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) from MFS patients, and a NOX4-deficient Marfan mouse model (Fbn1 C1039G/+ -Nox4 -/- ). Increased tyrosine nitration and reactive oxygen species levels were found in the tunica media of human aortic aneurysms and in cultured VSMC. Proteomic analysis identified nitrated and carbonylated proteins, which included smooth muscle α-actin (αSMA) and annexin A2. NOX4 immunostaining increased in the tunica media of human Marfan aorta and was transcriptionally overexpressed in VSMC. Fbn1 C1039G/+ -Nox4 -/- mice aortas showed a reduction of fragmented elastic fibers, which was accompanied by an amelioration in the Marfan-associated enlargement of the aortic root. Increase in the contractile phenotype marker calponin in the tunica media of MFS mice aortas was abrogated in Fbn1 C1039G/+ -Nox4 -/- mice. Endothelial dysfunction evaluated by myography in the Marfan ascending aorta was prevented by the absence of Nox4 or catalase-induced H 2 O 2 decomposition. We conclude that redox stress occurs in MFS, whose targets are actin-based cytoskeleton members and regulators of extracellular matrix homeostasis. Likewise, NOX4 have an impact in the progression of the aortic dilation in MFS and in the structural organization of the aortic tunica media, the VSMC phenotypic modulation, and endothelial function. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

EMMPRIN-mediated induction of uterine and vascular matrix metalloproteinases during pregnancy and in response to estrogen and progesterone.

PubMed

Dang, Yiping; Li, Wei; Tran, Victoria; Khalil, Raouf A

2013-09-15

Pregnancy is associated with uteroplacental and vascular remodeling in order to adapt for the growing fetus and the hemodynamic changes in the maternal circulation. We have previously shown upregulation of uterine matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) during pregnancy. Whether pregnancy-associated changes in MMPs are localized to the uterus or are generalized in feto-placental and maternal circulation is unclear. Also, the mechanisms causing the changes in uteroplacental and vascular MMPs during pregnancy are unclear. MMPs expression, activity and tissue distribution were measured in uterus, placenta and aorta of virgin, mid-pregnant (mid-Preg) and late pregnant (late-Preg) rats. Western blots and gelatin zymography revealed increases in MMP-2 and -9 in uterus and aorta of late-Preg compared with virgin and mid-Preg rats. In contrast, MMP-2 and -9 were decreased in placenta of late-Preg versus mid-Preg rats. Extracellular MMP inducer (EMMPRIN) was increased in uterus and aorta of pregnant rats, but was less in placenta of late-Preg than mid-Preg rats. Prolonged treatment of uterus or aorta of virgin rats with 17β-estradiol and progesterone increased the amount of EMMPRIN, MMP-2 and -9, and the sex hormone-induced increases in MMPs were prevented by EMMPRIN neutralizing antibody. Immunohistochemistry revealed that MMP-2 and -9 and EMMPRIN increased in uterus and aorta of pregnant rats, but decreased in placenta of late-Preg versus mid-Preg rats. Thus pregnancy-associated upregulation of uterine MMPs is paralleled by increased vascular MMPs, and both are mediated by EMMPRIN and induced by estrogen and progesterone, suggesting similar role of MMPs in uterine and vascular tissue remodeling and function during pregnancy. The decreased MMPs and EMMPRIN in placenta of late-Preg rats suggests reduced role of MMPs in feto-placental circulation during late pregnancy. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Overexpression of Catalase in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Prevents the Formation of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

PubMed Central

Parastatidis, Ioannis; Weiss, Daiana; Joseph, Giji; Taylor, W Robert

2013-01-01

Objective Elevated levels of oxidative stress have been reported in abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), but which reactive oxygen species (ROS) promotes the development of AAA remains unclear. Here we investigate the effect of the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) degrading enzyme catalase on the formation of AAA. Approach and Results AAA were induced with the application of calcium chloride (CaCl2) on mouse infrarenal aortas. The administration of PEG-catalase, but not saline, attenuated the loss of tunica media and protected against AAA formation (0.91±0.1 mm vs. 0.76±0.09 mm). Similarly, in a transgenic mouse model, catalase over-expression in the vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) preserved the thickness of tunica media and inhibited aortic dilatation by 50% (0.85±0.14 mm vs. 0.57±0.08 mm). Further studies showed that injury with CaCl2 decreased catalase expression and activity in the aortic wall. Pharmacologic administration or genetic over-expression of catalase restored catalase activity and subsequently decreased matrix metalloproteinase activity. In addition, a profound reduction in inflammatory markers and VSMC apoptosis was evident in aortas of catalase over-expressing mice. Interestingly, as opposed to infusion of PEG-catalase, chronic over-expression of catalase in VSMC did not alter the total aortic H2O2 levels. Conclusions The data suggest that a reduction in aortic wall catalase activity can predispose to AAA formation. Restoration of catalase activity in the vascular wall enhances aortic VSMC survival and prevents AAA formation primarily through modulation of matrix metalloproteinase activity. PMID:23950141

The effects of L-carnitine on spinal cord ischemia/reperfusion injury in rabbits.

PubMed

Tetik, O; Yagdi, T; Islamoglu, F; Calkavur, T; Posacioglu, H; Atay, Y; Ayik, F; Canpolat, L; Yuksel, M

2002-02-01

Paraplegia after distal aortic aneurysm repair remains a persistent clinical problem. We hypothesized that the tolerance of the spinal cord to an ischemic period could be improved with hypothermic Ringer's Lactate containing L-Carnitine. Twenty-eight New Zealand white rabbits were used as spinal cord ischemia models. We separated rabbits into four equal groups and clamped each animal's abdominal aorta distal to the left renal artery. We occluded the aortas above the iliac bifurcation for 30 minutes. In group I, the infrarenal aorta was clamped without infusing any solution. In group II, Ringer's Lactate solution was infused at + 25degrees C for 3 minutes at a rate of 5 ml/min into the isolated aortic segments immediately after cross-clamping and the last 3 minutes of ischemia. In group III, Ringer's Lactate solution at +3 degrees C was given in the same method as that of group II. In group IV, Ringer's Lactate solution at +3 degrees C plus 100 mg/kg of L-carnitine was infused using the same technique. We assessed the neurological status of the hind limbs 24 and 48 hours after operation according to Tarlov's criteria. All animals were sacrificed and spinal cords were harvested for histological analyses. The neurological status in groups III and IV was significantly superior to that of groups I and II. All the animals in group I had complete hind-limb paraplegia. Complete hind-limb paraplegia occurred in 5 rabbits in group II. Two of the 7 animals in group III had spastic paraplegia, and none at all in group IV. Histological analysis of the cross-clamped segments of the rabbits with paraplegia in group I, II and III revealed changes consistent with ischemic injury, while findings were normal for the normal animals in group III and IV. In this model, the infusion of hypothermic Ringer's Lactate contained L-carnitine provided sufficient spinal cord protection against ischemia. Clinically, this may be a useful adjunct for prevention of paraplegia during surgery of the descending aorta.

Sulforaphane reduces advanced glycation end products (AGEs)-induced inflammation in endothelial cells and rat aorta.

PubMed

Matsui, T; Nakamura, N; Ojima, A; Nishino, Y; Yamagishi, S-I

2016-09-01

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs)-receptor RAGE interaction evokes oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions, thereby being involved in endothelial cell (EC) damage in diabetes. Sulforaphane is generated from glucoraphanin, a naturally occurring isothiocyanate found in widely consumed cruciferous vegetables, by myrosinase. Sulforaphane has been reported to protect against oxidative stress-mediated cell and tissue injury. However, effects of sulforaphane on AGEs-induced vascular damage remain unclear. In this study, we investigated whether and how sulforaphane could inhibit inflammation in AGEs-exposed human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) and AGEs-injected rat aorta. Sulforaphane treatment for 4 or 24 h dose-dependently inhibited the AGEs-induced increase in RAGE, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecular-1 (VCAM-1) gene expression in HUVECs. AGEs significantly stimulated MCP-1 production by, and THP-1 cell adhesion to, HUVECs, both of which were prevented by 1.6 μM sulforaphane. Sulforaphane significantly suppressed oxidative stress generation and NADPH oxidase activation evoked by AGEs in HUVECs. Furthermore, aortic RAGE, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression in AGEs-injected rats were increased, which were suppressed by simultaneous infusion of sulforaphane. The present study demonstrated for the first time that sulforaphane could inhibit inflammation in AGEs-exposed HUVECs and AGEs-infused rat aorta partly by suppressing RAGE expression through its anti-oxidative properties. Inhibition of the AGEs-RAGE axis by sulforaphane might be a novel therapeutic target for vascular injury in diabetes. Copyright © 2016 The Italian Society of Diabetology, the Italian Society for the Study of Atherosclerosis, the Italian Society of Human Nutrition, and the Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Vascular filtration function in galactose-fed versus diabetic rats: The role of polyol pathway activity

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pugliese, G.; Tilton, R.G.; Speedy, A.

1990-07-01

These studies were undertaken to assess the effects of increased galactose (v increased glucose) metabolism via the polyol pathway on vascular filtration function in the kidneys, eyes, nerves, and aorta. Quantitative radiolabeled tracer techniques were used to assess glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and regional tissue vascular clearance of plasma 131I-bovine serum albumin (BSA) in five groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats: nondiabetic controls, streptozotocin-diabetic rats, nondiabetic rats fed a 50% galactose diet, diabetic rats treated with sorbinil (an aldose reductase inhibitor), and galactose-fed rats treated with sorbinil. Sorbinil was added to the diet to provide a daily dose of approximately .2more » mmol/kg body weight. After 2 months of diabetes or galactose ingestion, albumin clearance was increased twofold to fourfold in the eye (anterior uvea, choroid, and retina), sciatic nerve, aorta, and kidney; GFR was increased approximately twofold and urinary excretion of endogenous albumin and IgG were increased approximately 10-fold. Sorbinil treatment markedly reduced or completely prevented all of these changes in galactose-fed, as well as in diabetic rats. These observations support the hypothesis that increased metabolism of glucose via the sorbitol pathway is of central importance in mediating virtually all of the early changes in vascular filtration function associated with diabetes in the kidney, as well as in the eyes, nerves, and aorta. On the other hand, renal hypertrophy in diabetic rats and polyuria, hyperphagia, and impaired weight gain in galactose-fed and in diabetic rats were unaffected by sorbinil and therefore are unlikely to be mediated by increased polyol metabolism.« less

[The effects of sildenafil citrate on the isolated rat aorta: comparative in vitro study].

PubMed

Ozbek, H; Güler, N; Aydin, S; Eryonucu, B; Bilge, M

2001-03-01

Sildenafil, an inhibitor of cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5), is currently being used as oral therapy for penile erectile dysfunction. The aim of this study was to investigate the relaxing effect of sildenafil on vascular tissue and compare it with the known vasodilatator agents, sodium nitroprusside and acetylcholine. Rat thoracic aorta samples were cut into rings, mounted on steel hooks, and immersed in aerated Krebs solution maintained at 37 degree C. Isometric responses were recorded by strain gauge transducers connected to a polygraph. Graded relaxations were induced using increasing concentrations of acetylcholine sodium nitroprusside and sildenafil. The agents all does-dependently relaxed rat aorta strips. The relaxing potential of sildenafil was found to be similar to sodium nitroprusside, but higher than acetylcholine. In the absence of regulatory mechanisms, sildenafil citrate has noticeable vasodilatatory effect in vitro.

Serelaxin treatment reverses vascular dysfunction and left ventricular hypertrophy in a mouse model of Type 1 diabetes

PubMed Central

Ng, Hooi Hooi; Leo, Chen Huei; Prakoso, Darnel; Qin, Chengxue; Ritchie, Rebecca H.; Parry, Laura J.

2017-01-01

Serelaxin prevents endothelial dysfunction in the mouse aorta ex vivo and inhibits apoptosis in cardiomyocytes under acute hyperglycaemia. Less is known about the effects of serelaxin in an in vivo mouse model of diabetes. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis in streptozotocin (STZ)-treated mice that serelaxin is able to reverse diabetes-induced vascular dysfunction and cardiac remodelling. Mice were divided into citrate buffer + placebo, STZ + placebo and STZ + serelaxin (0.5 mg/kg/d, 2 weeks) groups. After 12 weeks of diabetes, sensitivity to the endothelium-dependent agonist acetylcholine (ACh) was reduced in the mesenteric artery. This was accompanied by an enhanced vasoconstrictor prostanoid contribution and a decrease in endothelium-derived hyperpolarisation (EDH)-mediated relaxation. Serelaxin restored endothelial function by increasing nitric oxide (NO)-mediated relaxation but not EDH. It also normalised the contribution of vasoconstrictor prostanoids to endothelial dysfunction and suppressed diabetes-induced hyper-responsiveness of the mesenteric artery to angiotensin II. Similarly, diabetes reduced ACh-evoked NO-mediated relaxation in the aorta which was reversed by serelaxin. In the left ventricle, diabetes promoted apoptosis, hypertrophy and fibrosis; serelaxin treatment reversed this ventricular apoptosis and hypertrophy, but had no effect on fibrosis. In summary, serelaxin reversed diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction by enhancing NO-mediated relaxation in the mouse vasculature and attenuating left ventricular hypertrophy and apoptosis. PMID:28067255

Estrogen Receptor α Participates to the Beneficial Effect of Red Wine Polyphenols in a Mouse Model of Obesity-Related Disorders

PubMed Central

Leonetti, Daniela; Soleti, Raffaella; Clere, Nicolas; Vergori, Luisa; Jacques, Caroline; Duluc, Lucie; Dourguia, Catherine; Martínez, Maria C.; Andriantsitohaina, Ramaroson

2017-01-01

Red wine polyphenol extracts (polyphenols) ameliorate cardiovascular and metabolic disorders associated with obesity. Previously, we demonstrated that the alpha isoform of estrogen receptor (ERα) triggers the vascular protection of polyphenols. Here, we investigated the contribution of ERα on the effects of polyphenols on cardiovascular and metabolic alterations associated with obesity. We used ovariectomized wild type or ERα-deficient mice receiving standard (SD) or western (WD) diets, or SD and WD containing polyphenols (SD+polyphenols and WD+polyphenols, respectively) over a 12-week period. Body weight was measured during treatment. Echocardiography examination was performed before sacrifice. Blood and tissues were sampled for biochemical and functional analysis with respect to nitric oxide (NO•) and oxidative stress. Vascular reactivity and liver mitochondrial complexes were analyzed. In WD-fed mice, polyphenols reduced adiposity, plasma triglycerides and oxidative stress in aorta, heart, adipose and liver tissues and enhanced NO• production in aorta and liver. ERα deletion prevented or reduced the beneficial effects of polyphenols, especially visceral adiposity, aortic and liver oxidative stresses and NO• bioavailability. ERα deletion, however, had no effect on polyphenol’s ability to decrease the fat accumulation and oxidative stress of subcutaneous adipose tissue. Also, ERα deletion did not modify the decrease of ROS levels induced by polyphenols treatment in the visceral adipose tissue and heart from WD-fed mice. Dietary supplementation of polyphenols remarkably attenuates features of metabolic syndrome; these effects are partially mediated by ERα-dependent mechanisms. This study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of this extract in metabolic and cardiovascular alterations linked to excessive energy intake. PMID:28119607

The effect of oxidation on the mechanical response and microstructure of porcine aortas.

PubMed

Stephen, Elizabeth A; Venkatasubramaniam, Arundhathi; Good, Theresa A; Topoleski, L D Timmie

2014-09-01

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), a product of many cellular functions, has been implicated in many age-related pathophysiological processes, including cardiovascular disease. The arterial proteins collagen and elastin may also undergo structural and functional changes due to damage caused by ROS. This study examined the effect of oxidation on the mechanical response of porcine aortas and aorta elastin and the associated changes in structural protein ultrastructure as a step in exploring the role of molecular changes in structural proteins with aging on elastic artery function. We examined the change in mechanical properties of aorta samples after various oxidation times as a first step in understanding how the oxidative environment associated with aging could impact mechanical properties of arterial structural proteins. We used confocal microscopy to visualize how the microstructure of isolated elastin changed with oxidation. We find that short term oxidation of elastin isolated from aortas leads to an increase in material stiffness, but also an increase in the fiber diameter, increase in void space in the matrix, and a decrease in the fiber orientation, possibly due to fiber cross-linking. The short term effects of oxidation on arterial collagen is more complex, with increase in material stiffness seen in the collagen region of the stress stretch curve at low extents of oxidation, but not at high levels of oxidation. These results may provide insight into the relationship between oxidative damage to tissue associated with aging and disease, structure of the arterial proteins elastin and collagen, and arterial mechanical properties and function. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Postnatal Deletion of the Type II Transforming Growth Factor-β Receptor in Smooth Muscle Cells Causes Severe Aortopathy in Mice.

PubMed

Hu, Jie Hong; Wei, Hao; Jaffe, Mia; Airhart, Nathan; Du, Liang; Angelov, Stoyan N; Yan, James; Allen, Julie K; Kang, Inkyung; Wight, Thomas N; Fox, Kate; Smith, Alexandra; Enstrom, Rachel; Dichek, David A

2015-12-01

Prenatal deletion of the type II transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor (TBRII) prevents normal vascular morphogenesis and smooth muscle cell (SMC) differentiation, causing embryonic death. The role of TBRII in adult SMC is less well studied. Clarification of this role has important clinical implications because TBRII deletion should ablate TGF-β signaling, and blockade of TGF-β signaling is envisioned as a treatment for human aortopathies. We hypothesized that postnatal loss of SMC TBRII would cause aortopathy. We generated mice with either of 2 tamoxifen-inducible SMC-specific Cre (SMC-CreER(T2)) alleles and homozygous floxed Tgfbr2 alleles. Mice were injected with tamoxifen, and their aortas examined 4 and 14 weeks later. Both SMC-CreER(T2) alleles efficiently and specifically rearranged a floxed reporter gene and efficiently rearranged a floxed Tgfbr2 allele, resulting in loss of aortic medial TBRII protein. Loss of SMC TBRII caused severe aortopathy, including hemorrhage, ulceration, dissection, dilation, accumulation of macrophage markers, elastolysis, abnormal proteoglycan accumulation, and aberrant SMC gene expression. All areas of the aorta were affected, with the most severe pathology in the ascending aorta. Cre-mediated loss of SMC TBRII in vitro ablated both canonical and noncanonical TGF-β signaling and reproduced some of the gene expression abnormalities detected in vivo. SMC TBRII plays a critical role in maintaining postnatal aortic homeostasis. Loss of SMC TBRII disrupts TGF-β signaling, acutely alters SMC gene expression, and rapidly results in severe and durable aortopathy. These results suggest that pharmacological blockade of TGF-β signaling in humans could cause aortic disease rather than prevent it. © 2015 American Heart Association, Inc.

Mechanical deterioration underlies malignant behavior of aneurysmal human ascending aorta.

PubMed

Koullias, George; Modak, Raj; Tranquilli, Maryann; Korkolis, Dimitris P; Barash, Paul; Elefteriades, John A

2005-09-01

The human ascending aorta becomes markedly prone to rupture and dissection at a diameter of 6 cm. The mechanical substrate for this malignant behavior is unknown. This investigation applied engineering analysis to human ascending aortic aneurysms and compared their structural characteristics with those of normal aortas. We measured the mechanical characteristics of the aorta by direct epiaortic echocardiography at the time of surgery in 33 patients with ascending aortic aneurysm undergoing aortic replacement and in 20 control patients with normal aortas undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Six parameters were measured in all patients: aortic diameter in systole and diastole, aortic wall thickness in systole and diastole, and blood pressure in systole and diastole. These were used to calculate mechanical characteristics of the aorta from standard equations. Aortic distensibility reflects the elastic qualities of the aorta. Aortic wall stress reflects the disrupting force experienced within the aortic wall. Incremental elastic modulus indicates loss of elasticity reserve. Aortic distensibility falls to extremely low levels as aortic dimension rises toward 6 cm (3.02 mm Hg(-1) for small aortas versus 1.45 mm Hg(-1) for aortas larger than 5 cm, P < .05). Aortic wall stress rises to 157.8 kPa for the aneurysmal aorta, compared with 92.5 kPa for normal aortas. For 6-cm aortas at pressures of 200 mm Hg or more, wall stress rises to 857 kPa, nearly exceeding the known maximal tensile strength of human aneurysmal aortic wall. Incremental elastic modulus deteriorates (1.93 +/- 0.88 MPa vs 1.18 +/- 0.21 MPa, P < .05) in aneurysmal aortas relative to that in normal aortas. The mechanical properties of the aneurysmal aorta deteriorate dramatically as the aorta enlarges, reaching critical levels associated with rupture by a diameter of 6 cm. This mechanical deterioration provides an explanation in engineering terms for the malignant clinical behavior (rupture and dissection) of the aorta at these dimensions. This work adds to our fundamental understanding of the biology of aortic aneurysms and promises to permit future application of engineering measurements to supplement aneurysm size in clinical decision making in aneurysmal disease.

[Pathophysiology, prophylaxis and treatment of reperfusion syndrome in the surgery of abdominal aorta aneurysm].

PubMed

Sukharev, I I; Guch, A A; Medvedskyĭ, E B; Kostylev, M V; Kornitskaia, A I; Gindich, L A; Dominiak, A B; Vlaĭkov, G G

1999-01-01

The peroxidal oxidation of the lipids state was studied up, as well as of the whole blood neutrophils functional activity, hemodynamics and microcirculation of lower extremities in surgical treatment of the abdominal aorta aneurysm. The main significance in the reperfusional syndrome pathophysiology, caused by temporary overcompression of aorta, has the neutrophils activation, their interrelationship with the endothelium cells and the activity lowering of the tissue antioxidant system, manifestated by vascular spasm, which is mostly expressed in the patients with stenotic affection of the lower extremities arteries. Positive effect was noted in application of preparation corvitin, which has antioxidant action.

The risks of aorta impingement from pedicle screw may increase due to aorta movement during posterior instrumentation in Lenke 5C curve: a computed tomography study.

PubMed

Chen, Ling; Xu, Leilei; Qiu, Yong; Qiao, Jun; Wang, Fei; Liu, Zhen; Shi, Benglong; Qian, Bang-ping; Zhu, Zezhang

2015-07-01

To investigate the aorta movement following correction surgery for patients with thoracolumbar/lumbar scoliosis and to determine the subsequent risk of the aorta impingement for pedicle screw (PS) misplacement. Thirty-six AIS patients with a main thoracolumbar or lumbar curve were included in this study. According to the direction of the main curve, the patients were divided into Group R and Group L, with Group R comprising 16 patients with a right-sided curve and Group L comprising 20 patients with a left-sided curve. All patients underwent CT scans of the lower thoracic and lumbar spine before and after surgery. To identify the relative positions of the aorta to vertebral body, several parameters were measured from the CT images of the middle transverse planes of vertebrae from T11 to L4, including aorta-vertebra angle (α), vertebral rotation angle (β), left safety distance (LSD) and right safety distance (RSD). The risk of the aorta impingement from T11 to L4 was calculated. An intragroup comparison regarding the position of the aorta relative to the vertebral body before and after correction surgery was performed accordingly. After surgery, the aorta moved toward the vertebral body among all levels in both groups. Compared with that in Group L, the aorta in Group R was significantly closer to the entry point at all levels, especially at T11. Before surgery, the aorta in Group R was at a high risk of impingement from left PS placement regardless of the diameters of the simulated screws. While in Group L, the risk of aorta impingement was mainly caused by the right placement of 45 mm PS. After surgery, both groups had an increased risk of aorta impingement from PS insertion, especially at T11. The risk of aorta impingement from PS placement was significantly higher in Group R than in Group L. The risk of aorta impingement increased as the aorta shifted leftward after correction surgery, especially in right-sided Lenke 5C curve. Thus, preoperative risk evaluation could be insufficient for clinical practice due to aorta movement following correction surgery. Surgeons should be aware of the potential risk of aorta impingement, especially when placing PS in patients with right-sided curves.

Thymoquinone protects end organs from abdominal aorta ischemia/reperfusion injury in a rat model.

PubMed

Aydin, Mehmet Salih; Kocarslan, Aydemir; Kocarslan, Sezen; Kucuk, Ahmet; Eser, İrfan; Sezen, Hatice; Buyukfirat, Evren; Hazar, Abdussemet

2015-01-01

Previous studies have demonstrated that thymoquinone has protective effects against ischemia reperfusion injury to various organs like lungs, kidneys and liver in different experimental models. We aimed to determine whether thymoquinone has favorable effects on lung, renal, heart tissues and oxidative stress in abdominal aorta ischemia-reperfusion injury. Thirty rats were divided into three groups as sham (n=10), control (n=10) and thymoquinone (TQ) treatment group (n=10). Control and TQ-treatment groups underwent abdominal aorta ischemia for 45 minutes followed by a 120-min period of reperfusion. In the TQ-treatment group, thymoquinone was given 5 minutes. before reperfusion at a dose of 20 mg/kg via an intraperitoneal route. Total antioxidant capacity, total oxidative status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) in blood serum were measured and lung, kidney, and heart tissue histopathology were evaluated with light microscopy. Total oxidative status and oxidative stress index activity in blood samples were statistically higher in the control group compared to the sham and TQ-treatment groups (P<0.001 for TOS and OSI). Control group injury scores were statistically higher compared to sham and TQ-treatment groups (P<0.001 for all comparisons). Thymoquinone administered intraperitoneally was effective in reducing oxidative stress and histopathologic injury in an acute abdominal aorta ischemia-reperfusion rat model.

Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells Ameliorate Cyclosporine A-Induced Hypertension in Mice.

PubMed

Chiasson, Valorie L; Bounds, Kelsey R; Chatterjee, Piyali; Manandhar, Lochana; Pakanati, Abhinandan R; Hernandez, Marcos; Aziz, Bilal; Mitchell, Brett M

2018-01-01

The calcineurin inhibitor cyclosporine A (CsA) suppresses the immune system but promotes hypertension, vascular dysfunction, and renal damage. CsA decreases regulatory T cells and this contributes to the development of hypertension. However, CsA's effects on another important regulatory immune cell subset, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), is unknown. We hypothesized that augmenting MDSCs would ameliorate the CsA-induced hypertension and vascular and renal injury and dysfunction and that CsA reduces MDSCs in mice. Daily interleukin-33 treatment, which increased MDSC levels, completely prevented CsA-induced hypertension and vascular and renal toxicity. Adoptive transfer of MDSCs from control mice into CsA-treated mice after hypertension was established dose-dependently reduced blood pressure and vascular and glomerular injury. CsA treatment of aortas and kidneys isolated from control mice for 24 hours decreased relaxation responses and increased inflammation, respectively, and these effects were prevented by the presence of MDSCs. MDSCs also prevented the CsA-induced increase in fibronectin in microvascular and glomerular endothelial cells. Last, CsA dose-dependently reduced the number of MDSCs by inhibiting calcineurin and preventing cell proliferation, as other direct calcineurin signaling pathway inhibitors had the same dose-dependent effect. These data suggest that augmenting MDSCs can reduce the cardiovascular and renal toxicity and hypertension caused by CsA. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Segmental and age differences in the elastin network, collagen, and smooth muscle phenotype in the tunica media of the porcine aorta.

PubMed

Tonar, Zbyněk; Kubíková, Tereza; Prior, Claudia; Demjén, Erna; Liška, Václav; Králíčková, Milena; Witter, Kirsti

2015-09-01

The porcine aorta is often used in studies on morphology, pathology, transplantation surgery, vascular and endovascular surgery, and biomechanics of the large arteries. Using quantitative histology and stereology, we estimated the area fraction of elastin, collagen, alpha-smooth muscle actin, vimentin, and desmin within the tunica media in 123 tissue samples collected from five segments (thoracic ascending aorta; aortic arch; thoracic descending aorta; suprarenal abdominal aorta; and infrarenal abdominal aorta) of porcine aortae from growing domestic pigs (n=25), ranging in age from 0 to 230 days. The descending thoracic aorta had the greatest elastin fraction, which decreased proximally toward the aortic arch as well as distally toward the abdominal aorta. Abdominal aortic segments had the highest fraction of actin, desmin, and vimentin positivity and all of these vascular smooth muscle markers were lower in the thoracic aortic segments. No quantitative differences were found when comparing the suprarenal abdominal segments with the infrarenal abdominal segments. The area fraction of actin within the media was comparable in all age groups and it was proportional to the postnatal growth. Thicker aortic segments had more elastin and collagen with fewer contractile cells. The collagen fraction decreased from ascending aorta and aortic arch toward the descending aorta. By revealing the variability of the quantitative composition of the porcine aorta, the results are suitable for planning experiments with the porcine aorta as a model, i.e. power test analyses and estimating the number of samples necessary to achieving a desirable level of precision. The complete primary morphometric data, in the form of continuous variables, are made publicly available for biomechanical modeling of site-dependent distensibility and compliance of the porcine aorta. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Prenatal Sonographic Predictors of Neonatal Coarctation of the Aorta.

PubMed

Anuwutnavin, Sanitra; Satou, Gary; Chang, Ruey-Kang; DeVore, Greggory R; Abuel, Ashley; Sklansky, Mark

2016-11-01

To identify practical prenatal sonographic markers for the postnatal diagnosis of coarctation of the aorta. We reviewed the fetal echocardiograms and postnatal outcomes of fetal cases of suspected coarctation of the aorta seen at a single institution between 2010 and 2014. True- and false-positive cases were compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine echocardiographic predictors of coarctation of the aorta. Optimal cutoffs for these markers and a multivariable threshold scoring system were derived to discriminate fetuses with coarctation of the aorta from those without coarctation of the aorta. Among 35 patients with prenatal suspicion of coarctation of the aorta, the diagnosis was confirmed postnatally in 9 neonates (25.7% true-positive rate). Significant predictors identified from multivariate analysis were as follows: Z score for the ascending aorta diameter of -2 or less (P = < .001), Z score for the mitral valve annulus of -2 or less (P= .033), Zscore for the transverse aortic arch diameter of -2 or less (P= .028), and abnormal aortic valve morphologic features (P= .026). Among all variables studied, the ascending aortic Z score had the highest sensitivity (78%) and specificity (92%) for detection of coarctation of the aorta. A multivariable threshold scoring system identified fetuses with coarctation of the aorta with still greater sensitivity (89%) and only mildly decreased specificity (88%). The finding of a diminutive ascending aorta represents a powerful and practical prenatal predictor of neonatal coarctation of the aorta. A multivariable scoring system, including dimensions of the ascending and transverse aortas, mitral valve annulus, and morphologic features of the aortic valve, provides excellent sensitivity and specificity. The use of these practical sonographic markers may improve prenatal detection of coarctation of the aorta. © 2016 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Characterization of Human Torso Vascular Morphometry in Normotensive and Hypotensive Trauma Patients

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-07-01

Aorta Wall Measures Merged for Analysis Landmarks & User-aided Segmentation 5cm Volume...with Centerline Measures AORTA PROCESSING VENA CAVA PROCESSING Basic Morphomics Scan Identification Aorta Centerline Segmented Aorta and Vena...Analysis 49 Data Presentation Aorta  Radius  Popula/on       Normotensive   Hypotensive  

Investigation of pulsatile flowfield in healthy thoracic aorta models.

PubMed

Wen, Chih-Yung; Yang, An-Shik; Tseng, Li-Yu; Chai, Jyh-Wen

2010-02-01

Cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of morbidity and mortality in the western world. Complex hemodynamics plays a critical role in the development of aortic dissection and atherosclerosis, as well as many other diseases. Since fundamental fluid mechanics are important for the understanding of the blood flow in the cardiovascular circulatory system of the human body aspects, a joint experimental and numerical study was conducted in this study to determine the distributions of wall shear stress and pressure and oscillatory WSS index, and to examine their correlation with the aortic disorders, especially dissection. Experimentally, the Phase-Contrast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (PC-MRI) method was used to acquire the true geometry of a normal human thoracic aorta, which was readily converted into a transparent thoracic aorta model by the rapid prototyping (RP) technique. The thoracic aorta model was then used in the in vitro experiments and computations. Simulations were performed using the computational fluid dynamic (CFD) code ACE+((R)) to determine flow characteristics of the three-dimensional, pulsatile, incompressible, and Newtonian fluid in the thoracic aorta model. The unsteady boundary conditions at the inlet and the outlet of the aortic flow were specified from the measured flowrate and pressure results during in vitro experiments. For the code validation, the predicted axial velocity reasonably agrees with the PC-MRI experimental data in the oblique sagittal plane of the thoracic aorta model. The thorough analyses of the thoracic aorta flow, WSSs, WSS index (OSI), and wall pressures are presented. The predicted locations of the maxima of WSS and the wall pressure can be then correlated with that of the thoracic aorta dissection, and thereby may lead to a useful biological significance. The numerical results also suggest that the effects of low WSS and high OSI tend to cause wall thickening occurred along the inferior wall of the aortic arch and the anterior wall of the brachiocephalic artery, similar implication reported in a number of previous studies.

Evaluation of TGF beta1 expression and comparison the thickness of different aorta layers in experimental diabetes.

PubMed

Cuce, G; Kalkan, S S; Esen, H H

2011-01-01

It was aimed to investigate the effects of experimental diabetes on TGF beta1 expression and tunica intima and media thickness in abdominal and thoracic aorta. Fourteen three months old female rats were divided into two groups, non-diabetic and streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic group. Hematoxylin-Eosin and Verhoeff's Van Gieson elastic staining and TGF beta1 immunohistochemistry staining were performed. Abdominal and thoracic intima and media thickness of aortas were measured with the oculometer. Evaluation of intima and media thickness measurements showed no significant statistical differences between non-diabetic and diabetic groups. TGF beta1 expression increased significantly in thoracic diabetic (TD) group. The 60 day duration of diabetes is not sufficiently enough time for the development of pathological changes that could lead to thickening in aortic intima-media layers. TGF beta1 expression was negative in the abdominal aorta that can predispose to the development of atherosclerosis, which could develop overtime. This finding may be interpreted as an appropriate basis for the development of atherosclerosis. In the thoracic aorta TGF beta1 may coordinate cellular events such as tissue repair (Fig. 5, Ref. 23).

Double-arterial cannulation for aortic valve replacement with porcelain aorta.

PubMed

De Paulis, Ruggero; Maselli, Daniele; Scaffa, Raffaele; Nardella, Saverio

2009-10-01

We describe a new technique of aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with porcelain aorta. Three patients (mean age 75 years) were treated. The cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was established after side-graft right axillary artery and direct femoral artery cannulation. Venous drainage was obtained by atrio-caval cannulation. The procedures were performed in mild hypothermia (30 degrees C). Cerebral perfusion was carried out by clamping the innominate artery and all epiaortic vessels. The aorta was endoclamped by a Foley balloon inserted into the isthmus. The aorta was then opened longitudinally for 10 cm to expose and replace the aortic valve. Near-infra-red spectroscopy (NIRS) and bilateral radial artery pressure were used to monitor effective cerebral perfusion. Operative mortality was absent. The mean time of CPB was 73 min. NIRS-derived tissue oxygenation was maintained above 55%. Postoperative course was uneventful. This technique has several advantages: first, the cannulation of right axillary and the common femoral artery allows simultaneous cerebral and systemic perfusion. Second, any form of cross-clamp is avoided and the aorta is occluded away from the epiaortic vessels. Third, there is an increased freedom to choose the best place for aortotomy.

A detailed microscopic study of the changes in the aorta of experimental model of postmenopausal rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil.

PubMed

Adam, Siti Khadijah; Das, Srijit; Jaarin, Kamsiah

2009-06-01

Hypercholesterolaemia, increase in lipid peroxidation and hyperhomocysteinaemia may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. This study was performed to examine the effects of repeatedly heated palm oil mixed with 2% cholesterol diet on atherosclerosis in oestrogen-deficient postmenopausal rats. Ovariectomy causes disruption of tunica intima layer of the rat aorta simulating a postmenopausal condition in females. Twenty-four ovariectomized female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups. The control group received 2% cholesterol diet without palm oil. A diet with 2% cholesterol content fortified with fresh, once-heated and five-times-heated palm oil was given to the other treatment groups. The rats were sacrificed at the end of 4 months of study and the aortic arch tissue was processed for histomorphometry and electron microscopy. On observation, there was disruption of the intimal layer of the ovariectomized rat aorta. There was no obvious ultrastructural change in the aorta of the rats fed with fresh palm oil. The ultrastructural changes were minimal with once-heated palm oil, in which there was a focal disruption of the endothelial layer. The focal disruption was more pronounced with five-times-heated palm oil. The results of this study show that the ingestion of fresh palm oil may have a protective effect on the aorta but such a protective action may be lost when the palm oil is repeatedly heated. The study may be clinically important for all postmenopausal women who are susceptible to atherosclerosis.

Antihypertensive and vasodilator effects of methanolic extract of Inula viscosa: Biological evaluation and POM analysis of cynarin, chlorogenic acid as potential hypertensive.

PubMed

Hakkou, Zineb; Maciuk, Alexandre; Leblais, Veronique; Bouanani, Nour Elhouda; Mekhfi, Hassane; Bnouham, Mohammed; Aziz, Mohammed; Ziyyat, Abderrahime; Rauf, Abdur; Hadda, Taibi Ben; Shaheen, Usama; Patel, Seema; Fischmeister, Rodolphe; Legssyer, Abdelkhaleq

2017-09-01

Inula viscosa L. (Asteraceae) is a medicinal plant widely used as a folk medicine in oriental Morocco, to treat hypertension. The antihypertensive effect of the methanolic extract obtained from I. viscosa leaves was evaluated in hypertensive L-NAME rats. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured using a non-invasive indirect tail-cuff plethysmographic method. Four groups of rats were used: a control group; a hypertensive group treated with L-NAME (32mg/kg/day); a positive control group treated with L-NAME plus enalapril (15mg/kg/day) as a reference antihypertensive agent; and a group treated with L-NAME plus MeOH-extract (40mg/kg/day). Treatment with L-NAME alone caused a progressive increase in SBP. After 4 weeks, the value of SBP reached 160±2mmHg which shows the installation of hypertension. Enalapril prevented the increase in SBP, which remained normal at 123±1mmHg after 4 weeks of treatment. The administration of MeOH-extract along with L-NAME prevented the increase in SBP as well, which remained constant at 115±1mmHg after 4 weeks of treatment. In ex-vivo models, MeOH-extract produced a relaxation of pre-contracted ring aorta (54 ± 2% of relaxation at 3g/L). But, when the rings were denuded, MeOH-extract failed to relax pre-contracted rings of aorta. Phytochemical study of I. viscosa MeOH-extract revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, such as cynarin and chlorogenic acid. The present results suggest that I. viscosa MeOH-extract has an antihypertensive, predominantly mediated by an endothelium-dependent vasodilatory effect. Cynarin and chlorogenic acid, which have a strong vasorelaxant effect may be involved in the antihypertensive effect of the plant extract. The bioinformatic POM analysis confirms the therapeutic potential of cynarin and chlorogenic acids as inhibitors of various biotargets. Based on the results, the coordination of these phytochemicals with calcium and transition metals should be studied, for better scope at antihypertensive drug development. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Protective effects of Arctium lappa L. root extracts (AREs) on high fat diet induced quail atherosclerosis.

PubMed

Wang, Zhi; Li, Ping; Wang, Chenjing; Jiang, Qixiao; Zhang, Lei; Cao, Yu; Zhong, Weizhen; Wang, Chunbo

2016-01-08

This study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of Arctium lappa L. root extracts (AREs) from different extraction methods (aqueous, ethanol, chloroform and flavone) on atherosclerosis. Quails (Coturnix coturnix) were subjected to high fat diet, with or without one of the four different AREs or positive control simvastatin. Blood samples were collected before treatment, after 4.5 weeks or ten weeks to assess lipid profile (Levels of total cholesterol (TC), Triacylglycerol (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)). After ten weeks, the serum levels of nitric oxide (NO) as well as antioxidant and pro-oxidative status (Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)) were measured. Furthermore, aortas were collected after ten weeks treatment, aorta lipid contents (TC, TG and LDL) were assessed, and histology was used to confirm atherosclerotic changes. The results indicated that high fat diet significantly deteriorated lipid profile and antioxidant status in quail serum, while all the extracts significantly reverted the changes similar to simvastatin. Aorta lipid profile assessment revealed similar results. Histology on aortas from quails treated for ten weeks confirmed atherosclerotic changes in high fat diet group, while the extracts significantly alleviated the atherosclerotic changes similar to simvastatin. Among the different extracts, flavones fraction exerted best protective effects. Our data suggest that the protective effects of AREs were medicated via hypolipidemic and anti-oxidant effects. Underlying molecular mechanisms are under investigation.

Differential effects of eNOS uncoupling on conduit and small arteries in GTP-cyclohydrolase I-deficient hph-1 mice.

PubMed

d'Uscio, Livius V; Smith, Leslie A; Katusic, Zvonimir S

2011-12-01

In the present study, we used the hph-1 mouse, which displays GTP-cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH I) deficiency, to test the hypothesis that loss of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) in conduit and small arteries activates compensatory mechanisms designed to protect vascular wall from oxidative stress induced by uncoupling of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Both GTPCH I activity and BH(4) levels were reduced in the aortas and small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. However, the BH(4)-to-7,8-dihydrobiopterin ratio was significantly reduced only in hph-1 aortas. Furthermore, superoxide anion and 3-nitrotyrosine production were significantly enhanced in aortas but not in small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. In contrast to the aorta, protein expression of copper- and zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) was significantly increased in small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. Protein expression of catalase was increased in both aortas and small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. Further analysis of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling demonstrated that protein expression of phosphorylated Ser(1177)-eNOS as well as basal cGMP levels and hydrogen peroxide was increased in hph-1 aortas. Increased production of hydrogen peroxide in hph-1 mice aortas appears to be the most likely mechanism responsible for phosphorylation of eNOS and elevation of cGMP. In contrast, upregulation of CuZnSOD and catalase in resistance arteries is sufficient to protect vascular tissue from increased production of reactive oxygen species generated by uncoupling of eNOS. The results of our study suggest that anatomical origin determines the ability of vessel wall to cope with oxidative stress induced by uncoupling of eNOS.

Study of the Blood Supply Fraction of the Ascending Aorta and Its Effect in Diagnosing Early Ascending Aortic Atherosclerosis.

PubMed

Wang, Kun; Cao, Tiesheng; Zhao, Lianbi; Yang, Yong; Feng, Yang; Duan, Yunyou; Yuan, Lijun; Xing, Changyang; Ren, Huari

2016-03-01

To investigate the capacity of blood storage of certain large arteries during diastole, we first studied the ascending aorta by echocardiography. The concept of the blood supply fraction of the ascending aorta was then introduced to evaluate elastic retraction of the ascending aortic wall and determine its role in diagnosing early atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta. First, we enrolled 120 healthy volunteers and divided them into 3 groups according to age: 20 to 35 years (B1 group), 36 to 50 years (B2 group), and 51 to 65 years (B3 group); there were 40 volunteers in each group. We used echocardiography to measure the blood supply fraction in each volunteer and compared the results for each group. Then we enrolled 40 patients (51-65 years) with early atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta, measured the blood supply fraction of each, and compared the results with the B3 group. The mean blood supply fractions ± SD in the B1, B2, and B3 groups were 21.75% ± 1.53%, 20.76% ± 1.62%, and 18.44% ± 1.19%, respectively. The fraction in the B3 group was significantly lower than those in the B1 and B2 groups (P < .01). The fraction in the patients with early atherosclerosis was 14.92% ± 1.01%, which was obviously lower than that in the B3 group (P < .01). The blood supply fraction of the ascending aorta decreases with age, and it could be used as a parameter for diagnosis of early atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta. © 2016 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid on Oxidative Stress and Kinin Receptor Expression in Obese Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rats.

PubMed

Midaoui, Adil El; Talbot, Sébastien; Lahjouji, Karim; Dias, Jenny Pena; Fantus, I George; Couture, Réjean

2015-06-01

To investigate the impact of alpha-lipoic acid on superoxide anion production and NADPH oxidase activity as well as on the expression of kinin B1 and B2 receptors in key organs of obese Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats. Superoxide anion production was measured by lucigenin chemiluminescence. Kinin B1 and B2 receptors expression was measured at protein and mRNA levels by western blot and qRT-PCR in key organs of Zucker Diabetic Fatty and Zucker lean control rats treated for a period of 6 weeks with a standard diet or a diet containing the antioxidant α-lipoic acid (1 g/kg). Superoxide anion production and NADPH oxidase activity were significantly enhanced in aorta and adipose tissue of Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats. Kinin B1 and B2 receptors expression levels were also significantly increased in the liver and the gastrocnemius muscle of Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats. Expression of both receptors was not altered in the pancreas of Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats and was undetectable in white retroperitoneal adipose tissue. Alpha-lipoic acid prevented the rise in NADPH oxidase activity in aorta and epididymal adipose tissue of Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats and the upregulation of kinin B1 receptor in liver and gastrocnemius muscle and that of kinin B2 receptor in the liver. Alpha-lipoic acid treatment was found to prevent the final body weight increase without affecting significantly hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance index in Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats. Findings support the hypothesis that oxidative stress is implicated in the induction of kinin B1 receptor in Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats. The ability of α-lipoic acid to blunt the body weight gain appears to be mediated in part by preventing NADPH oxidase activity rise in adipose tissue and reversing the hepatic upregulation of kinin B1 receptor in Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats.

AIBP reduces atherosclerosis by promoting reverse cholesterol transport and ameliorating inflammation in apoE-/- mice.

PubMed

Zhang, Min; Zhao, Guo-Jun; Yao, Feng; Xia, Xiao-Dan; Gong, Duo; Zhao, Zhen-Wang; Chen, Ling-Yan; Zheng, Xi-Long; Tang, Xiao-Er; Tang, Chao-Ke

2018-06-01

ApoA-1 binding protein (AIBP) is a secreted protein that interacts with apoA-I and accelerates cholesterol efflux from cells. We have recently reported that AIBP promotes apoA-1 binding to ABCA1 in the macrophage cell membrane, partially through 115-123 amino acids. However, the effects of AIBP on the development of atherosclerosis in vivo remain unknown. ApoE -/- mice with established atherosclerotic plaques were infected with rAAV-AIBP or rAAV-AIBP(Δ115-123), respectively. AIBP-treated mice showed reduction of atherosclerotic lesion formation, increase in circulating HDL levels and enhancement of reverse cholesterol transport to the plasma, liver, and feces. AIBP increased ABCA1 protein levels in aorta and peritoneal macrophages. Furthermore, AIBP could diminish atherosclerotic plaque macrophage content and the expression of chemotaxis-related factors. In addition, AIBP prevented macrophage inflammation by inactivating NF-κB and promoted the expression of M2 markers like Mrc-1 and Arg-1. However, lack of 115-123 amino acids of AIBP(Δ115-123) had no such preventive effects on the progression of atherosclerosis. Our observations demonstrate that AIBP inhibits atherosclerosis progression and suggest that it may be an effective target for prevention of atherosclerosis. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reversal of endothelial dysfunction in aorta of streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced type-2 diabetic rats by S-Allylcysteine.

PubMed

Brahmanaidu, Parim; Uddandrao, V V Sathibabu; Sasikumar, Vadivukkarasi; Naik, Ramavat Ravindar; Pothani, Suresh; Begum, Mustapha Sabana; Rajeshkumar, M Prasanna; Varatharaju, Chandrasekar; Meriga, Balaji; Rameshreddy, P; Kalaivani, A; Saravanan, Ganapathy

2017-08-01

Dietary measures and plant-based therapies as prescribed by native systems of medicine have gained attraction among diabetics with claims of efficacy. The present study investigated the effects of S-Allylcysteine (SAC) on body weight gain, glucose, insulin, insulin resistance, and nitric oxide synthase in plasma and argininosuccinate synthase (AS) and argininosuccinate lyase (ASL), lipid peroxides and antioxidant enzymes in aorta of control and streptozotocin-nicotinamide (STZ-NA)-induced diabetic rats. Changes in body weight, glucose, insulin, insulin resistance, and antioxidant profiles of aorta and mRNA expressions of nitric oxide synthase, AS, and ASL were observed in experimental rats. SAC (150 mg/kg b.w) showed its therapeutic effects similar to gliclazide in decreasing glucose, insulin resistance, lipid peroxidation, and increasing body weight; insulin, antioxidant enzymes, and mRNA levels of nitric oxide synthase, argininosuccinate synthase, and argininosuccinate lyase genes in STZ-NA rats. Histopathologic studies also revealed the protective nature of SAC on aorta. In conclusion, garlic and its constituents mediate the anti-diabetic potential through mitigating hyperglycemic status, changing insulin resistance by alleviating endothelial dysregulation in both plasma and tissues.

Facts about Coarctation of the Aorta

MedlinePlus

... Media Policy Makers Facts about Coarctation of the Aorta Recommend on Facebook Tweet Share Compartir Click here ... narrower than usual. What is Coarctation of the Aorta? Coarctation of the aorta is a birth defect ...

Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation of Lung Tumors in Contact with the Aorta: Dangerous and Difficult but Efficient: A Report of Two Cases

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thanos, Loukas, E-mail: loutharad@yahoo.co; Mylona, Sofia; Giannoulakos, Nikolaos

Percutaneous imaging-guided tumor ablation is a widely accepted method for the treatment of primary and secondary lung tumors. Although it is generally feasible and effective for local tumor control, some conditions may affect its feasibility and effectiveness. Herein the authors report their experience with two patients with lung malignancies contiguous to the aorta who were successfully treated with radiofrequency ablation, even though it initially appeared highly risky due to the possible fatal complications.

Management of heat in laser tissue welding using NIR cover window material.

PubMed

Sriramoju, Vidyasagar; Savage, Howard; Katz, Alvin; Muthukattil, Ronex; Alfano, Robert R

2011-12-01

Laser tissue welding (LTW) is a novel method of surgical wound closure by the use of laser radiation to induce fusion of the biological tissues. Molecular dynamics associated with LTW is a result of thermal and non-thermal mechanisms. This research focuses exclusively on better heat management to reduce thermal damage of tissues in LTW using a near infrared laser radiation. An infrared continuous-wave (CW) laser radiation at 1,450 nm wavelength corresponding to the absorption band from combination vibrational modes of water is used to weld together ex vivo porcine aorta. In these studies we measured the optimal laser power and scan speed, for better tensile strength of the weld and lesser tissue dehydration. Significant amount of water loss from the welded tissue results in cellular death and tissue buckling. Various thermally conductive optical cover windows were used as heat sinks to reduce thermal effects during LTW for the dissipation of the heat. The optimal use of the method prevents tissue buckling and minimizes the water loss. Diamond, sapphire, BK7, fused silica, and IR quartz transparent optical cover windows were tested. The data from this study suggests that IR-quartz as the material with optimal thermal conductivity is ideal for laser welding of the porcine aorta. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Litigation in nontraumatic aortic diseases--a tempest in the malpractice maelstrom.

PubMed

Elefteriades, John A; Barrett, Peter W; Kopf, Gary S

2008-01-01

Physicians are vulnerable to highly litigated thoracic aortic diseases. On the basis of a review of litigated cases, we aim to determine legally protective strategies for physicians and methods to improve treatment. Thirty-three nontraumatic, thoracic aorta-related legal cases were analyzed. Twenty-three patients (69.7%) had dissections (21 ascending, 2 descending), 8 (24.2%) had aneurysms and 2 had miscellaneous other phenomena (1 coarctation and 1 iatrogenic descending aortic rupture). The adverse event was death in 30 (90.9%) patients and paraplegia or stroke in 3 (9.1%). Allegations included: failure/delay in diagnosis (19), delay in surgery (4), error in surgical technique (5), failure to prevent paraplegia (2) and miscellaneous (3). Medical treatment was retrospectively judged suboptimal in 22 cases (66.6%) for reasons consonant with allegations. Aortic disease can be diagnostically elusive, as 'the great masquerader'. Emergency physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for aneurysm and dissection. The D-dimer test can effectively rule out aortic dissection. 'Triple rule-out' CT scans should be performed liberally. CT scan readers must remember to evaluate the aorta. Operating room administrators must be aware that postponing a scheduled thoracic aortic case may result in interim rupture and consequent litigation. With virulent thoracic aortic diseases, adverse outcome itself does not imply substandard care. 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel

Design of a cost-effective, hemodynamically adjustable model for resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) simulation.

PubMed

Keller, Benjamin A; Salcedo, Edgardo S; Williams, Timothy K; Neff, Lucas P; Carden, Anthony J; Li, Yiran; Gotlib, Oren; Tran, Nam K; Galante, Joseph M

2016-09-01

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is an adjunct technique for salvaging patients with noncompressible torso hemorrhage. Current REBOA training paradigms require large animals, virtual reality simulators, or human cadavers for acquisition of skills. These training strategies are expensive and resource intensive, which may prevent widespread dissemination of REBOA. We have developed a low-cost, near-physiologic, pulsatile REBOA simulator by connecting an anatomic vascular circuit constructed out of latex and polyvinyl chloride tubing to a commercially available pump. This pulsatile simulator is capable of generating cardiac outputs ranging from 1.7 to 6.8 L/min with corresponding arterial blood pressures of 54 to 226/14 to 121 mmHg. The simulator accommodates a 12 French introducer sheath and a CODA balloon catheter. Upon balloon inflation, the arterial waveform distal to the occlusion flattens, distal pulsation within the simulator is lost, and systolic blood pressures proximal to the balloon catheter increase by up to 62 mmHg. Further development and validation of this simulator will allow for refinement, reduction, and replacement of large animal models, costly virtual reality simulators, and perfused cadavers for training purposes. This will ultimately facilitate the low-cost, high-fidelity REBOA simulation needed for the widespread dissemination of this life-saving technique.

Vascular Mural Cells Promote Noradrenergic Differentiation of Embryonic Sympathetic Neurons.

PubMed

Fortuna, Vitor; Pardanaud, Luc; Brunet, Isabelle; Ola, Roxana; Ristori, Emma; Santoro, Massimo M; Nicoli, Stefania; Eichmann, Anne

2015-06-23

The sympathetic nervous system controls smooth muscle tone and heart rate in the cardiovascular system. Postganglionic sympathetic neurons (SNs) develop in close proximity to the dorsal aorta (DA) and innervate visceral smooth muscle targets. Here, we use the zebrafish embryo to ask whether the DA is required for SN development. We show that noradrenergic (NA) differentiation of SN precursors temporally coincides with vascular mural cell (VMC) recruitment to the DA and vascular maturation. Blocking vascular maturation inhibits VMC recruitment and blocks NA differentiation of SN precursors. Inhibition of platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) signaling prevents VMC differentiation and also blocks NA differentiation of SN precursors. NA differentiation is normal in cloche mutants that are devoid of endothelial cells but have VMCs. Thus, PDGFR-mediated mural cell recruitment mediates neurovascular interactions between the aorta and sympathetic precursors and promotes their noradrenergic differentiation. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Case report of a rarely seen long-segment middle aortic syndrome.

PubMed

Yakut, Kahraman; Erdoğan, İlkay

2017-03-01

Middle aortic syndrome (MAS) follows a course with distal thoracic and abdominal aorta stenosis. It is a rare disease that is usually diagnosed after the first decade of life. Clinical reflection of MAS is often in the form of hypertension and claudication in the lower extremities. Its etiology is unclear, but is known to be associated with congenital or acquired diseases. This pathology, which is accompanied by malignant hypertension, often does not respond to medical treatment. In patients with MAS, surgical treatment is first line recommendation to prevent complications such as hypertension, heart failure, intracranial bleeding, or aortic rupture. In order to draw attention to this disease, presently described is case of high blood pressure detected during routine examination of a child who had no complaint, and discovery of long-segment stenosis in the abdominal aorta identified with echocardiography and conventional angiography.

Comparison of the effects of the K(+)-channel openers cromakalim and minoxidil sulphate on vascular smooth muscle.

PubMed Central

Wickenden, A. D.; Grimwood, S.; Grant, T. L.; Todd, M. H.

1991-01-01

1 The actions of the potassium channel openers, cromakalim and minoxidil sulphate, were compared in a range of isolated blood vessel preparations. 2 Cromakalim and minoxidil sulphate inhibited spontaneous mechanical activity of the guinea-pig portal vein and relaxed the noradrenaline precontracted rat aorta with similar potency. In contrast, minoxidil sulphate was less potent than cromakalim in inhibiting spontaneous activity in the rat portal vein and was essentially inactive in the noradrenaline precontracted rat mesenteric artery and rabbit aorta. 3 Minoxidil sulphate did not antagonize the effects of cromakalim in the rabbit aorta indicating it was not acting as a partial 'agonist'. 4 Charybdotoxin, noxiustoxin and rubidium failed to discriminate between cromakalim and minoxidil sulphate indicating that the apparently selective effects of minoxidil sulphate were not mediated by either Ca(2+)-activated potassium channels, delayed rectifiers or rubidium impermeable potassium channels. 5 Glibenclamide antagonized the effects of cromakalim in an apparently competitive manner whereas the effects of minoxidil sulphate were antagonized in a non-competitive manner. The involvement of subtypes of ATP-sensitive potassium channels is discussed. PMID:1878752

Antihypertensive activities of the aqueous extract of Kalanchoe pinnata (Crassulaceae) in high salt-loaded rats.

PubMed

Bopda, Orelien Sylvain Mtopi; Longo, Frida; Bella, Thierry Ndzana; Edzah, Protais Marcellin Ohandja; Taïwe, Germain Sotoing; Bilanda, Danielle Claude; Tom, Esther Ngo Lemba; Kamtchouing, Pierre; Dimo, Theophile

2014-04-28

The leaves of Kalanchoe pinnata (Crassulaceae) are used in Cameroon folk medicine to manage many diseases such as cardiovascular dysfunctions. In this work, we aimed to evaluate the activities of aqueous leaf extract of Kalanchoe pinnata on the blood pressure of normotensive rat (NTR) and salt hypertensive rats (SHR), as well as its antioxidant properties. Hypertension was induced in rats by oral administration of 18% NaCl for 4 weeks. For the preventive study, three groups of rats received 18% NaCl solution and the plant extract at 25 mg/kg/day, 50 mg/kg/day or 100 mg/kg/day by gavage. Two positive control groups received 18% NaCl solution and either spironolactone (0.71 mg/kg/day) or eupressyl (0.86 mg/kg/day) by gavage for 4 weeks. At the end of this experimental period, systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP) and heart rate (HR) were measured by the invasive method. Some oxidative stress biomarkers (reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric monoxide (NO) were evaluated in heart, aorta, liver and kidney. NO level was indirectly evaluated by measuring nitrite concentration. Kalanchoe pinnata extract prevented significantly the increase of systolic and diastolic arterial pressures in high salt-loaded rats (SHR). In SHR, concomitant administration of Kalanchoe pinnata at 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg/day significantly prevented the increase in blood pressure by 32%, 24% and 47% (for SAP); 35%, 33% and 56% (for DAP), respectively. No significant change was recorded in heart rate of those rats. The plant extract improved antioxidant status in various organs, but more potently in aorta. Thus, antioxidant and modulatory effects of Kalanchoe pinnata at the vasculature might be of preponderant contribution to its overall antihypertensive activity. The work demonstrated that the concomitant administration of high-salt and the aqueous extract of Kalanchoe pinnata elicits prevention of salt-induced hypertension in rat. This antihypertensive activity is associated with an improvement of antioxidant status. Overall, results justify and support the use of Kalanchoe pinnata as antihypertensive medicine. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Increased plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine level is associated with ascending aorta dilatation: a case-control study.

PubMed

Satılmışoğlu, Muhammet Hulusi; Örnek Diker, Vesile; Taşbulak, Ömer; Diker, Mustafa; Birand, Ali; Kaya, Mehmet; İyigün, Taner; Eksik, Abdurrahman

2017-01-01

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. We aimed to determine plasma ADMA levels in patients with ascending aorta dilatation in comparison to those without aorta dilatation, and to evaluate the diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic value of serum ADMA level for aorta dilatation. This was a cross-sectional case-control study. A total of 104 consecutive patients (female/male, 35/69; mean age, 62.75 ± 13.11 years) diagnosed with ascending aorta dilatation (≥ 4.5 cm) on echocardiography (case group), and 52 age-and gender-matched patients (female/male, 17/35; mean age, 63.44 ± 7.56 years) with normal aorta dimensions (≤ 3.8 cm) (control group) were included. Routine biochemical and haematological analysis in addition to measurement of serum ADMA level were performed. The mean diameter of ascending aorta measured on echocardiography was 4.95 ± 0.57 cm and 3.34 ± 0.36 cm in patients with aorta dilatation and those without aorta dilatation, respectively (p < 0.001). Serum ADMA level was significantly higher in patients with aorta dilatation than in the control group (1.70 ± 1.12 μmol/L vs. 0.79 ± 0.76 μmol/L, respectively, p < 0.001). There was significant positive correlation between ADMA level and aortic diameter in Spearman correlation analysis (r = 0.317, p < 0.001). In linear regression analysis, ADMA was found to be a significant independent predictor of aorta diameter (Beta = 0.26, p < 0.001). Receiver-operator characteristic curve analysis also revealed that serum ADMA cut-off level over 0.29 μmol/L predicts aorta dilatation (≥ 4.5 cm) with 94% sensitivity and 92% specificity and with high ac-curacy (area under curve: 0.786; 95% confidence interval: 0.709-0.863, p < 0.001). Serum ADMA level is diagnostic for ascending aorta dilatation with high sensitivity and specificity, and should be considered for use in clinical diagnosis of aorta dilatation.

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonism protects the aorta from vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and collagen deposition in a rat model of adrenal aldosterone-producing adenoma.

PubMed

Yan, Yongji; Wang, Chao; Lu, Yiqin; Gong, Huijie; Wu, Zhun; Ma, Xin; Li, Hongzhao; Wang, Baojun; Zhang, Xu

2018-02-01

The number of patients with adrenal aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) has gradually increased. However, even after adenoma resection, some patients still suffer from high systolic blood pressure (SBP), which is possibly due to great arterial remodeling. Moreover, mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) were found to be expressed in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). This study aims to determine whether MR antagonism protects the aorta from aldosterone-induced aortic remolding. Male rats were subcutaneously implanted with an osmotic minipumps and randomly divided into four groups: control; aldosterone (1 μg/h); aldosterone plus a specific MR antagonist, eplerenone (100 mg/kg/day); and aldosterone plus a vasodilator, hydralazine (25 mg/kg/day). After 8 weeks of infusion, aortic smooth muscle cell proliferation and collagen deposition, as well as the MDM2 and TGF-β1 expression levels in the aorta, were examined. Model rats with APAs were successfully constructed. Compared with the control rats, the model rats exhibited (1) marked SBP elevation, (2) no significant alteration in aortic morphology, (3) increased VSMC proliferation and MDM2 expression in the aorta, and (4) enhanced total collagen and collagen III depositions in the aorta, accompanied with up-regulated expression of TGF-β1. These effects were significantly inhibited by co-administration with eplerenone but not with hydralazine. These findings suggested that specific MR antagonism protects the aorta from aldosterone-induced VSMC proliferation and collagen deposition.

Automated aortic calcification detection in low-dose chest CT images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Yiting; Htwe, Yu Maw; Padgett, Jennifer; Henschke, Claudia; Yankelevitz, David; Reeves, Anthony P.

2014-03-01

The extent of aortic calcification has been shown to be a risk indicator for vascular events including cardiac events. We have developed a fully automated computer algorithm to segment and measure aortic calcification in low-dose noncontrast, non-ECG gated, chest CT scans. The algorithm first segments the aorta using a pre-computed Anatomy Label Map (ALM). Then based on the segmented aorta, aortic calcification is detected and measured in terms of the Agatston score, mass score, and volume score. The automated scores are compared with reference scores obtained from manual markings. For aorta segmentation, the aorta is modeled as a series of discrete overlapping cylinders and the aortic centerline is determined using a cylinder-tracking algorithm. Then the aortic surface location is detected using the centerline and a triangular mesh model. The segmented aorta is used as a mask for the detection of aortic calcification. For calcification detection, the image is first filtered, then an elevated threshold of 160 Hounsfield units (HU) is used within the aorta mask region to reduce the effect of noise in low-dose scans, and finally non-aortic calcification voxels (bony structures, calcification in other organs) are eliminated. The remaining candidates are considered as true aortic calcification. The computer algorithm was evaluated on 45 low-dose non-contrast CT scans. Using linear regression, the automated Agatston score is 98.42% correlated with the reference Agatston score. The automated mass and volume score is respectively 98.46% and 98.28% correlated with the reference mass and volume score.

Over length quantification of the multiaxial mechanical properties of the ascending, descending and abdominal aorta using Digital Image Correlation.

PubMed

Peña, Juan A; Corral, Victoria; Martínez, Miguel A; Peña, Estefanía

2018-01-01

In this paper, we hypothesize that the biaxial mechanical properties of the aorta may be dependent on arterial location. To demonstrate any possible position-related difference, our study analyzed and compared the biaxial mechanical properties of the ascending thoracic aorta, descending thoracic aorta and infrarenal abdominal aorta stemming from the same porcine subjects, and reported values of constitutive parameters for well-known strain energy functions, showing how these mechanical properties are affected by location along the aorta. When comparing ascending thoracic aorta, descending thoracic aorta and infrarenal abdominal aorta, abdominal tissues were found to be stiffer and highly anisotropic. We found that the aorta changed from a more isotropic to a more anisotropic tissue and became progressively less compliant and stiffer with the distance to the heart. We observed substantial differences in the anisotropy parameter between aortic samples where abdominal samples were more anisotropic and nonlinear than the thoracic samples. The phenomenological model was not able to capture the passive biaxial properties of each specific porcine aorta over a wide range of biaxial deformations, showing the best prediction root mean square error ε=0.2621 for ascending thoracic samples and, especially, the worst for the infrarenal abdominal samples ε=0.3780. The micro-structured model with Bingham orientation density function was able to better predict biaxial deformations (ε=0.1372 for ascending thoracic aorta samples). The root mean square error of the micro-structural model and the micro-structured model with von Mises orientation density function were similar for all positions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Endovascular treatment of complicated aortic aneurysms in patients with underlying arteriopathies.

PubMed

Baril, Donald T; Carroccio, Alfio; Palchik, Eugene; Ellozy, Sharif H; Jacobs, Tikva S; Teodorescu, Victoria; Marin, Michael L

2006-07-01

Patients with arteriopathies including giant cell arteritis, Marfan syndrome, and Takayasu's disease are at risk for aneurysmal degeneration of the aorta. Aortic repair has been recommended for these patients to prevent rupture. The purpose of this study was to examine outcomes following endovascular stent graft (EVSG) repair of aortic aneurysms in this patient population. Over an 8-year period, 11 patients (six men, five women) with arteriopathies underwent endovascular aortic repair. The mean age was 50 (range 15-81). Diseases included Marfan syndrome (n = 6), Takayasu's disease (n = 3), and giant cell arteritis (n = 2). Success of EVSG repair was evaluated per the reporting standards of the Society for Vascular Surgery/American Association for Vascular Surgery. Follow-up was a mean of 28.9 months (range 3-68). Six patients underwent EVSG repair of the thoracic aorta, four underwent EVSG repair of the abdominal aorta, and one underwent a staged repair of the thoracic and subsequently the abdominal aorta. Six true aneurysms and six pseudoaneurysms were repaired. Eight patients had previous aortic surgery, including four with multiple aortic operations. For the 12 aneurysms treated, technical success was achieved in 11 (91.7%). One technical failure occurred due to a small iliac access vessel, requiring an eventual iliac conduit for insertion. Early complications (<30 days) occurred in three patients. Type I or III endoleak developed following two repairs (16.7%). Aneurysm expansion occurred following one repair (8.3%). No aneurysm-related deaths occurred during follow-up. EVSG repair of aortic aneurysms is feasible and can be safely performed in patients with arteriopathies. Long-term durability in this younger group of patients who carry an ongoing risk of arterial degeneration remains to be determined.

In-vivo characterization of a 3D hybrid scaffold based on PCL/decellularized aorta for tracheal tissue engineering.

PubMed

Ghorbani, Fariba; Moradi, Lida; Shadmehr, Mohammad Behgam; Bonakdar, Shahin; Droodinia, Atosa; Safshekan, Farzaneh

2017-12-01

As common treatments for long tracheal stenosis are associated with several limitations, tracheal tissue engineering is considered as an alternative treatment. This study aimed at preparing a hybrid scaffold, based on biologic and synthetic materials for tracheal tissue engineering. Three electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds, namely E1 (pure PCL), E2 (collagen-coated PCL) and E3 (PCL blended with collagen) were prepared. Allogeneic aorta was harvested and decellularized. A biodegradable PCL stent was fabricated and inserted into the aorta to prevent its collapse. Scaffold characterization results revealed that the 2-h swelling ratio of E2 was significantly higher than those of E1 and E3. In the first 3months, E2 and E3 exhibited almost equal degradabilities (significantly higher than that of E1). Moreover, tensile strengths of all samples were comparable with those of human trachea. Using rabbit's adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) and primary chondrocytes, E3 exhibited the highest levels of GAG release within 21days as well as collagen II and aggrecan expression. Fot the next step, AMSC-chondrocyte co-culture seeded scaffold was sutured to the acellular aorta, implanted into rabbits' muscle, and finally harvested after 4weeks of follow up. Harvested structures were totally viable due to the angiogenesis created by the muscle. H&E and alcian blue staining results revealed the presence of chondrocytes in the structure and GAG in the produced extracellular matrix. Since tracheal replacement using biologic and synthetic scaffolds usually results in tracheal collapse or granulation formation, a hybrid construct may provide the required rigidity and biocompatibility for the substitute. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

The effects of nicotine administration on the pathophysiology of rat aortic wall.

PubMed

Kugo, H; Zaima, N; Tanaka, H; Urano, T; Unno, N; Moriyama, T

2017-01-01

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is the progressive dilation of the abdominal aorta. Nicotine is reported to be associated with the development and rupture of AAA, but the pathological effects of nicotine on normal rat aorta have not been determined. We investigated pathological changes in the aortic wall of rats caused by the administration of nicotine. Nicotine administration weakened the vascular wall, increased gelatinolytic activity and promoted the destruction of elastin and collagen in the rat abdominal aorta. There were no differences in the areas positive for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 between the control and nicotine treated groups. The areas positive for MMP-12 in the nicotine group were significantly greater than for the control group. Gelatinolytic activity in the aortic wall was increased significantly in the nicotine group. Our findings suggest that MMP-12 is sensitive to nicotine exposure in rats.

Vasodilatory effect of asafoetida essential oil on rat aorta rings: The role of nitric oxide, prostacyclin, and calcium channels.

PubMed

Esmaeili, Hassan; Sharifi, Mozhdeh; Esmailidehaj, Mansour; Rezvani, Mohammad Ebrahim; Hafizibarjin, Zeynab

2017-12-01

Asafoetida is an oleo-gum resin mainly obtained from Ferula assa-foetida L. species in the apiaceae family. Previous studies have shown that it has antispasmodic effects on rat's and pig's ileums. The main goals of this study were to assess the vasodilatory effect of asafoetida essential oil (AEO) on the contractile response of rat's aorta rings and to find the role of nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase, and calcium channels. Thoracic aorta rings were stretched under a steady-state tension of 1 g in an organ bath apparatus for 1 h and then precontracted by KCl (80 mM) in the presence and absence of AEO. L-NAME (blocker of nitric oxide synthase) and indomethacin (blocker of cyclooxygenase) were used to assess the role of nitric oxide (NO) and prostacyclin in the vasodilatory effect of AEO. Also, the effect of AEO on the influx of calcium through the cell membrane calcium channels was determined. Data showed that AEO had vasodilatory effects on aorta rings with both intact (IC 50  = 1.6 µl/l) or denuded endothelium (IC 50  = 19.2 µl/l) with a significantly higher potency in intact endothelium rings. The vasodilatory effects of AEO were reduced, but not completely inhibited, in the presence of L-NAME or indomethacin. Adding AEO to the free-calcium medium also significantly reduced the CaCl 2 -induced contractions. The results indicated that AEO has a potent vasodilatory effect that is endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent. Also, it reduced the influx of calcium into the cell through plasma membrane calcium channels. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

The relaxation induced by S-nitroso-glutathione and S-nitroso-N-acetylcysteine in rat aorta is not related to nitric oxide production.

PubMed

Ceron, P I; Cremonez, D C; Bendhack, L M; Tedesco, A C

2001-08-01

S-nitroso-glutathione (GSNO) and S-nitroso-N-acetylcysteine (NACysNO) are nitrosothiols that release nitric oxide (NO) and mimic the effects of endogenous NO. This study investigated the relaxation induced by GSNO and NACysNO in rat aorta and the relation between relaxation and NO formation. Both compounds at concentrations from 10(-9) M to 10(-4) M relaxed the rat aorta in a concentration-dependent manner. However, NO production depended on the concentration of nitrosothiols present and was detected only above 100 microM GSNO or NACysNO. To determine whether K+ channels are involved in the relaxation induced by nitrosothiols, the contractions were induced with KCl at concentrations of 30, 60, or 90 mM. The concentration-effect curves for the relaxation induced by nitrosothiols were shifted to the right for all the K+ concentrations compared with aortas precontracted with phenylephrine. These results indicate the participation of K+ channels in the relaxation induced by GSNO and NACysNO. A selective inhibitor of soluble guanylyl cyclase, 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one, significantly inhibited the relaxation induced by the nitrosothiols. The relaxation induced by GSNO and NACysNO was inhibited by the K+ channel blockers glibenclamide, selective K(ATP) channels, and apamin, selective for low-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels in rat aorta, but was not inhibited by charybdotoxin, a potent and selective Ca2+-activated K+ channel blocker, or by 4-aminopyridine, a voltage-gated K+ channel blocker. These results indicate that relaxation induced by GSNO and NACysNO is partially due to activation of K(ATP) channels and partially due to activation of low-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels. However, the ability of the nitrosothiol compounds to overcome the inhibitory effect of high extracellular K+ concentrations suggests another mechanism of relaxation contributing to the nitrosothiol response. The most intriguing finding is that relaxation is not related to the NO produced in rat aorta.

Intraperitoneal curcumin decreased lung, renal and heart injury in abdominal aorta ischemia/reperfusion model in rat.

PubMed

Aydin, Mehmet Salih; Caliskan, Ahmet; Kocarslan, Aydemir; Kocarslan, Sezen; Yildiz, Ali; Günay, Samil; Savik, Emin; Hazar, Abdussemet; Yalcin, Funda

2014-01-01

Previous studies have demonstrated that curcumin (CUR) has protective effects against ischemia reperfusion injury to various organs. We aimed to determine whether CUR has favorable effects on tissues and oxidative stress in abdominal aorta ischemia-reperfusion injury. Thirty rats were divided into three groups as sham, control and treatment (CUR) group. Control and CUR groups underwent abdominal aorta ischemia for 60 min followed by a 120 min period of reperfusion. In the CUR group, CUR was given 5 min before reperfusion at a dose of 200 mg/kg via an intraperitoneal route. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) in blood serum were measured, and lung, renal and heart tissue histopathology were evaluated with light microscopy. TOS and OSI activity in blood samples were statistically decreased in sham and CUR groups compared to the control group (p < 0.001 for TOS and OSI). Renal, lung, heart injury scores of sham and CUR groups were statistically decreased compared to control group (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). Histopathological examination revealed less severe lesions in CUR group than in the control group. CUR administered intraperitoneally was effective in reducing oxidative stress and histopathologic injury in an acute abdominal aorta I/R rat model. Copyright © 2014 Surgical Associates Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of Bioactive Compound of Aronia melanocarpa on Cardiovascular System in Experimental Hypertension.

PubMed

Cebova, Martina; Klimentova, Jana; Janega, Pavol; Pechanova, Olga

2017-01-01

Aronia melanocarpa has attracted scientific interest due to its dense contents of different polyphenols. We aimed to analyse effects of Aronia melanocarpa (AME) extract on blood pressure (BP), lipid peroxidation, cytokine level, total NOS activity in the left ventricle (LV), and aorta of L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. 12-week-old male WKY rats were assigned to the control group and groups treated with AME extract (57.90 mg/kg/day), L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day), or combination of L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day) and AME (57.90 mg/kg/day) in tap water for 3 weeks. NOS activity, eNOS protein expression, and conjugated diene (CD) concentration were determined in the LV and aorta. After 3 weeks of L-NAME treatment, BP was increased by 28% and concomitant treatment with AME reduced it by 21%. NOS activity of the LV and aorta in the L-NAME group was decreased by about 40%, while AME increased it almost on the control level. AME-induced eNOS upregulation may contribute to increase NOS activity. Moreover, AME decreased CD concentration in the LV and aorta and TNF- α and IL-6 production in the plasma were increased by L-NAME treatment. In conclusion, our results showed that active substances of Aronia melanocarpa may have a positive effect on blood pressure, NOS activity, and proinflammatory processes in L-NAME-induced hypertension.

Nebivolol prevents vascular oxidative stress and hypertension in rats chronically treated with ethanol.

PubMed

do Vale, Gabriel T; Simplicio, Janaina A; Gonzaga, Natália A; Yokota, Rodrigo; Ribeiro, Amanda A; Casarini, Dulce E; de Martinis, Bruno S; Tirapelli, Carlos R

2018-04-30

Chronic ethanol consumption is associated with hypertension and atherosclerosis. Vascular oxidative stress is described as an important mechanism whereby ethanol predisposes to atherosclerosis. We hypothesized that nebivolol would prevent ethanol-induced hypertension and vascular oxidative stress. Male Wistar rats were treated with ethanol 20% (vol./vol.) or nebivolol (10 mg/kg/day, p. o., gavage), a selective β 1 -adrenergic receptor antagonist. Ethanol-induced increase in blood pressure and in the circulating levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline was prevented by nebivolol. Similarly, nebivolol prevented ethanol-induced increase in plasma levels of renin, angiotensin I and II. Chronic ethanol consumption increased the aortic levels of superoxide anion (O 2 - ), thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) as well as the expression of Nox1 and nitrotyrosine immunostaining in the rat aorta. Treatment with nebivolol prevented these responses. The decrease in aortic levels of nitrate/nitrite (NOx) induced by ethanol was prevented by the treatment with nebivolol. Finally, nebivolol attenuated ethanol-induced increase in phenylephrine- and noradrenaline-induced contraction of endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded aortic rings. The novelty of our study is that nebivolol prevented ethanol-induced hypertension and vascular oxidative stress. Additionally, we showed that the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) are important endogenous mediators of the cardiovascular effects of ethanol. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of hydrogen sulfide on hemodynamics, inflammatory response and oxidative stress during resuscitated hemorrhagic shock in rats

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Introduction Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been shown to improve survival in rodent models of lethal hemorrhage. Conversely, other authors have reported that inhibition of endogenous H2S production improves hemodynamics and reduces organ injury after hemorrhagic shock. Since all of these data originate from unresuscitated models and/or the use of a pre-treatment design, we therefore tested the hypothesis that the H2S donor, sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), may improve hemodynamics in resuscitated hemorrhagic shock and attenuate oxidative and nitrosative stresses. Methods Thirty-two rats were mechanically ventilated and instrumented to measure mean arterial pressure (MAP) and carotid blood flow (CBF). Animals were bled during 60 minutes in order to maintain MAP at 40 ± 2 mm Hg. Ten minutes prior to retransfusion of shed blood, rats randomly received either an intravenous bolus of NaHS (0.2 mg/kg) or vehicle (0.9% NaCl). At the end of the experiment (T = 300 minutes), blood, aorta and heart were harvested for Western blot (inductible Nitric Oxyde Synthase (iNOS), Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), phosphorylated Inhibitor κB (P-IκB), Inter-Cellular Adhesion Molecule (I-CAM), Heme oxygenase 1(HO-1), Heme oxygenase 2(HO-2), as well as nuclear respiratory factor 2 (Nrf2)). Nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide anion (O2-) were also measured by electron paramagnetic resonance. Results At the end of the experiment, control rats exhibited a decrease in MAP which was attenuated by NaHS (65 ± 32 versus 101 ± 17 mmHg, P < 0.05). CBF was better maintained in NaHS-treated rats (1.9 ± 1.6 versus 4.4 ± 1.9 ml/minute P < 0.05). NaHS significantly limited shock-induced metabolic acidosis. NaHS also prevented iNOS expression and NO production in the heart and aorta while significantly reducing NF-kB, P-IκB and I-CAM in the aorta. Compared to the control group, NaHS significantly increased Nrf2, HO-1 and HO-2 and limited O2- release in both aorta and heart (P < 0.05). Conclusions NaHS is protective against the effects of ischemia reperfusion induced by controlled hemorrhage in rats. NaHS also improves hemodynamics in the early resuscitation phase after hemorrhagic shock, most likely as a result of attenuated oxidative stress. The use of NaHS hence appears promising in limiting the consequences of ischemia reperfusion (IR). PMID:20836847

Sulforaphane reduces vascular inflammation in mice and prevents TNF-α-induced monocyte adhesion to primary endothelial cells through interfering with the NF-κB pathway.

PubMed

Nallasamy, Palanisamy; Si, Hongwei; Babu, Pon Velayutham Anandh; Pan, Dengke; Fu, Yu; Brooke, Elizabeth A S; Shah, Halley; Zhen, Wei; Zhu, Hong; Liu, Dongmin; Li, Yunbo; Jia, Zhenquan

2014-08-01

Sulforaphane, a naturally occurring isothiocyanate present in cruciferous vegetables, has received wide attention for its potential to improve vascular function in vitro. However, its effect in vivo and the molecular mechanism of sulforaphane at physiological concentrations remain unclear. Here, we report that a sulforaphane concentration as low as 0.5 μM significantly inhibited tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced adhesion of monocytes to human umbilical vein endothelial cells, a key event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis both in static and under flow conditions. Such physiological concentrations of sulforaphane also significantly suppressed TNF-α-induced production of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and adhesion molecules including soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1 and soluble E-selectin, key mediators in the regulation of enhanced endothelial cell-monocyte interaction. Furthermore, sulforaphane inhibited TNF-α-induced nuclear factor (NF)-κB transcriptional activity, Inhibitor of NF-κB alpha (IκBα) degradation and subsequent NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation in endothelial cells, suggesting that sulforaphane can inhibit inflammation by suppressing NF-κB signaling. In an animal study, sulforaphane (300 ppm) in a mouse diet significantly abolished TNF-α-increased ex vivo monocyte adhesion and circulating adhesion molecules and chemokines in C57BL/6 mice. Histology showed that sulforaphane treatment significantly prevented the eruption of endothelial lining in the intima layer of the aorta and preserved elastin fibers' delicate organization, as shown by Verhoeff-van Gieson staining. Immunohistochemistry studies showed that sulforaphane treatment also reduced vascular adhesion molecule-1 and monocyte-derived F4/80-positive macrophages in the aorta of TNF-α-treated mice. In conclusion, sulforaphane at physiological concentrations protects against TNF-α-induced vascular endothelial inflammation, in both in vitro and in vivo models. This anti-inflammatory effect of sulforaphane may be, at least in part, associated with interfering with the NF-κB pathway. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sulforaphane reduces vascular inflammation in mice and prevents TNF-α-induced monocyte adhesion to primary endothelial cells through interfering with the NF-κB pathway

PubMed Central

Nallasamy, Palanisamy; Si, Hongwei; Babu, Pon Velayutham Anandh; Pan, Dengke; Fu, Yu; Brooke, Elizabeth A.S.; Shah, Halley; Zhen, Wei; Zhu, Hong; Liu, Dongmin; Li, Yunbo; Jia, Zhenquan

2014-01-01

Sulforaphane, a naturally-occurring isothiocyanate present in cruciferous vegetables, has received wide attention for its potential to improve vascular function in vitro. However, its effect in vivo and the molecular mechanism of sulforaphane at physiological concentrations remain unclear. Here, we report that a sulforaphane concentration as low as 0.5 μM significantly inhibited TNF-α-induced adhesion of monocytes to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), a key event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis both in static and under flow conditions. Such physiological concentrations of sulforaphane also significantly suppressed TNF-α-induced production of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), adhesion molecule sVCAM-1 and sE-Selectin, key mediators in the regulation of enhanced endothelial cell-monocyte interaction. Furthermore, sulforaphane inhibited TNF-α-induced NF-κB transcriptional activity, IκBα degradation and subsequent NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation in endothelial cells, suggesting that sulforaphane can inhibit inflammation by suppressing NF-κB signaling. In an animal study, sulforaphane (300 ppm) in a mouse diet significantly abolished TNF-α-increased ex vivo monocyte adhesion and circulating adhesion molecules and chemokines in C57BL/6 mice. Histology showed that sulforaphane treatment significantly prevented the eruption of endothelial lining in the intima layer of the aorta and preserved elastin fibers’ delicate organization as shown by Verhoeff-van Gieson staining. Immunohistochemistry studies showed that sulforaphane treatment also reduced VCAM-1 and monocytes-derived F4/80-positive macrophages in the aorta of TNF-α-treated mice. In conclusion, sulforaphane at physiological concentrations protects against TNF-α-induced vascular endothelial inflammation, in both in vitro and in vivo models. This anti-inflammatory effect of sulforaphane may be, at least in part, associated with interfering with the NF-κB pathway. PMID:24880493

Regulation of aortic extracellular matrix synthesis via noradrenergic system and angiotensin II in juvenile rats.

PubMed

Dab, Houcine; Hachani, Rafik; Dhaouadi, Nedra; Sakly, Mohsen; Hodroj, Wassim; Randon, Jacques; Bricca, Giampiero; Kacem, Kamel

2012-10-01

Extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis regulation by sympathetic nervous system (SNS) or angiotensin II (ANG II) was widely reported, but interaction between the two systems on ECM synthesis needs further investigation. We tested implication of SNS and ANG II on ECM synthesis in juvenile rat aorta. Sympathectomy with guanethidine (50 mg/kg, subcutaneous) and blockade of the ANG II AT1 receptors (AT1R) blocker with losartan (20 mg/kg/day in drinking water) were performed alone or in combination in rats. mRNA and protein synthesis of collagen and elastin were examined by Q-RT-PCR and immunoblotting. Collagen type I and III mRNA were increased respectively by 62 and 43% after sympathectomy and decreased respectively by 31 and 60% after AT1R blockade. Combined treatment increased collagen type III by 36% but not collagen type I. The same tendency of collagen expression was observed at mRNA and protein levels after the three treatments. mRNA and protein level of elastin was decreased respectively by 63 and 39% and increased by 158 and 15% after losartan treatment. Combined treatment abrogates changes induced by single treatments. The two systems act as antagonists on ECM expression in the aorta and combined inhibition of the two systems prevents imbalance of mRNA and protein level of collagen I and elastin induced by single treatment. Combined inhibition of the two systems prevents deposit or excessive reduction of ECM and can more prevent cardiovascular disorders.

Detection of Aortic Wall Inclusion Using Regional Pulse Wave Propagation and Velocity In Silico

PubMed Central

Shahmirzadi, Danial; Konofagou, Elisa E.

2012-01-01

Monitoring of the regional stiffening of the arterial wall may prove important in the diagnosis of various vascular pathologies. The pulse wave velocity (PWV) along the aortic wall has been shown to be dependent on the wall stiffness and has played a fundamental role in a range of diagnostic methods. Conventional clinical methods involve a global examination of the pulse traveling between two remote sites, e.g. femoral and carotid arteries, to provide an average PWV estimate. However, the majority of vascular diseases entail regional vascular changes and therefore may not be detected by a global PWV estimate. In this paper, a fluid-structure interaction study of straight-geometry aortas was carried out to examine the effects of regional stiffness changes on PWV. Five homogeneous aortas with increasing wall stiffness as well as two aortas with soft and hard inclusions were considered. In each case, spatio-temporal maps of the wall motion were used to analyze the regional pulse wave propagation. On the homogeneous aortas, increasing PWVs were found to increase with the wall moduli (R2 = 0.9988), indicating the reliability of the model to accurately represent the wave propagation. On the inhomogeneous aortas, formation of reflected and standing waves was observed at the site of the hard and soft inclusions, respectively. Neither the hard nor the soft inclusion had a significant effect on the velocity of the traveling pulse beyond the inclusion site, which supported the hypothesis that a global measurement of the average PWV could fail to detect regional abnormalities. PMID:24235978

Participation of reactive oxygen species in diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction.

PubMed

Zúrová-Nedelcevová, Jana; Navarová, Jana; Drábiková, Katarína; Jancinová, Viera; Petríková, Margita; Bernátová, Iveta; Kristová, Viera; Snirc, Vladimír; Nosál'ová, Viera; Sotníková, Ruzena

2006-12-01

In the present study, the relationship between diabetes-induced hyperglycemia, reactive oxygen species production and endothelium-mediated arterial function was examined. The effect of antioxidant on the reactive oxygen species induced damage was tested. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin (STZ), 3 x 30 mg/kg i.p., administered on three consecutive days. After 10 weeks of diabetes, the functional state of the endothelium of the aorta was tested, endothelemia evaluation was performed and systolic blood pressure was measured. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in blood and the aorta was measured using luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence (CL). Levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) were determined in the aorta, kidney, and plasma. To study the involvement of hyperglycemia in functional impairment of the endothelium, aortal rings incubated in solution with high glucose concentration were tested in in vitro experiments. After 10 weeks of diabetes, endothelial injury was observed, exhibited by diminished endothelium-dependent relaxation of the aorta, increased endothelemia and by elevated systolic blood pressure. Using luminol-enhanced CL, a significant increase of ROS production was found in arterial tissue and blood. GSH levels were significantly increased in the kidney, while there were no GSH changes in plasma and the aorta. Incubation of aortic rings in solution with high glucose concentration led to impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation. The synthetic antioxidant SMe1EC2 was able to restore reduced endothelium-mediated relaxation. Our results suggest an important role of hyperglycemia-induced ROS production in mediating endothelial dysfunction in experimental diabetes, confirmed by CL and the protective effect of the antioxidant SMe1EC2.

Hybrid ECG-gated versus non-gated 512-slice CT angiography of the aorta and coronary artery: image quality and effect of a motion correction algorithm.

PubMed

Lee, Ji Won; Kim, Chang Won; Lee, Geewon; Lee, Han Cheol; Kim, Sang-Pil; Choi, Bum Sung; Jeong, Yeon Joo

2018-02-01

Background Using the hybrid electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated computed tomography (CT) technique, assessment of entire aorta, coronary arteries, and aortic valve can be possible using single-bolus contrast administration within a single acquisition. Purpose To compare the image quality of hybrid ECG-gated and non-gated CT angiography of the aorta and evaluate the effect of a motion correction algorithm (MCA) on coronary artery image quality in a hybrid ECG-gated aorta CT group. Material and Methods In total, 104 patients (76 men; mean age = 65.8 years) prospectively randomized into two groups (Group 1 = hybrid ECG-gated CT; Group 2 = non-gated CT) underwent wide-detector array aorta CT. Image quality, assessed using a four-point scale, was compared between the groups. Coronary artery image quality was compared between the conventional reconstruction and motion correction reconstruction subgroups in Group 1. Results Group 1 showed significant advantages over Group 2 in aortic wall, cardiac chamber, aortic valve, coronary ostia, and main coronary arteries image quality (all P < 0.001). All Group 1 patients had diagnostic image quality of the aortic wall and left ostium. The MCA significantly improved the image quality of the three main coronary arteries ( P < 0.05). Moreover, per-vessel interpretability improved from 92.3% to 97.1% with the MCA ( P = 0.013). Conclusion Hybrid ECG-gated CT significantly improved the heart and aortic wall image quality and the MCA can further improve the image quality and interpretability of coronary arteries.

Toll-like receptor-4 signaling pathway in aorta aging and diseases: "its double nature".

PubMed

Balistreri, Carmela Rita; Ruvolo, Giovanni; Lio, Domenico; Madonna, Rosalinda

2017-09-01

Recent advances in the field of innate immunity have revealed a complex role of innate immune signaling pathways in both tissue homeostasis and disease. Among them, the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) pathways has been linked to various pathophysiological conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This has been interrogated by developing multiple laboratory tools that have shown in animal models and clinical conditions, the involvement of the TLR-4 signaling pathway in the pathophysiology of different CVDs, such as atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, ischemia-reperfusion injury and aorta aneurysm. Among these, aorta aneurysm, a very complex pathological condition with uncertain etiology and fatal complications (i.e. dissection and rupture), has been associated with the occurrence of high risk cardiovascular conditions, including thrombosis and embolism. In this review, we discuss the possible role of TLR-4 signaling pathway in the development of aorta aneurysm, considering the emerging evidence from ongoing investigations. Our message is that emphasizing the role of TLR-4 signaling pathway in aorta aneurysm may serve as a starting point for future studies, leading to a better understanding of the pathophysiological basis and perhaps the effective treatment of this difficult human disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Elevated body temperature and increased blood vessel sensitivity in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

PubMed

Price, J M; Wilmoth, F R

1990-04-01

Body temperature (BT) was significantly greater in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) than in Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats regardless of the time of day, length of rectal probe, sex, age, or commercial vendor. Bath temperature (theta) for excised aortic rings was controlled by a thermoelectric Peltier module with an accuracy of 0.1 degree C. At peak force in individual contractions of norepinephrine (NE) dose-response experiments, theta was changed from 37 to 39 degrees C. Active and resting wall tension (Tw) were increased, and the mean effective dose (ED50) was decreased in the SHR aorta with and without endothelium. For the WKY aorta, active and resting Tw were increased, but ED50 was the same with and without endothelium. These results were supported by experiments where theta was decreased from 39 to 37 degrees C and by experiments on Sprague-Dawley rats. Potassium dose-response experiments with aorta from SHR and WKY rats show an increase in sensitivity at 39 degrees C, but active Tw is the same at 39 and 37 degrees C. When compared at the BT of each rat, the NE ED50 was lower and resting Tw was higher in the SHR aorta than in the WKY aorta, but active Tw was the same.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Vasorelaxant effect of formononetin in the rat thoracic aorta and its mechanisms.

PubMed

Zhao, Yan; Chen, Bai-Nian; Wang, Shou-Bao; Wang, Shao-Hua; Du, Guan-Hua

2012-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of formononetin and the related mechanisms on isolated rat thoracic aorta. Formononetin concentration dependently relaxed aortic rings precontracted with norepinephrine (NE, 1 μM) or KCl (80 mM). Pretreatment with formononetin noncompetitively inhibited contractile responses of aortas to NE and KCl. The vasorelaxant effect of formononetin partially relied on intact endothelia, which was significantly attenuated by incubation with N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (100 μM). In endothelium-denuded rings, glibenclamide (10 μM) and tetraethylammonium (5 mM) showed slight reduction in the vasorelaxant effect of formononetin. Moreover, formononetin reduced NE-induced transient contraction in Ca²⁺-free solution and inhibited the vasocontraction induced by increasing external calcium in medium plus 80 mM KCl. Our results suggested that formononetin induced relaxation in rat aortic rings through an endothelium-dependent manner via nitric oxide synthesis pathway, and also involving an endothelium-independent vasodilatation by the blockade of Ca²⁺ channels. The opening of K⁺ channels might also be one of the mechanisms of formononetin-induced vasorelaxation.

Alpha-adrenoceptor antagonistic and calcium antagonistic effects of nicergoline in the rat isolated aorta.

PubMed

Heitz, C; Descombes, J J; Miller, R C; Stoclet, J C

1986-04-16

The activity of the alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist nicergoline, a molecule composed of two constituent parts, ergoline and bromonicotinic acid, was investigated in the rat isolated aorta. Nicergoline (10 nM-0.1 microM) displaced concentration-effect curves elicited by noradrenaline and phenylephrine to the right and inhibited maximal responses elicited by both alpha-adrenoceptor agonists without significantly affecting prostaglandin F2 alpha-induced contractions. Higher concentrations of nicergoline (1 microM-50 microM) displaced to the right the concentration-effect curves elicited by calcium in a depolarizing medium. This calcium antagonist activity was not shared by either of the constituent parts. Nicergoline 100 microM abolished the 45Ca influx induced into rat aorta by 100 mM K+-containing physiological solution. The selectivity of nicergoline for alpha 1-adrenoceptors seen in binding experiments also depends on the presence of the bromonicotinic moiety of the molecule. It is concluded that nicergoline, but not its substituent parts, displays both alpha 1-adrenoceptor and calcium antagonism. The latter property may account for some of the observed effects of this compound.

Anti-atherosclerotic effects of pravastatin in brachiocephalic artery in comparison with en face aorta and aortic roots in ApoE/LDLR-/- mice.

PubMed

Kostogrys, Renata B; Franczyk-Zarow, Magdalena; Gasior-Glogowska, Marlena; Kus, Edyta; Jasztal, Agnieszka; Wrobel, Tomasz P; Baranska, Malgorzata; Czyzynska-Cichon, Izabela; Drahun, Anna; Manterys, Angelika; Chlopicki, Stefan

2017-02-01

Cholesterol-dependent and independent mechanisms were proposed to explain anti-atherosclerotic action of statins in humans. However, their effects in murine models of atherosclerosis have not been consistently demonstrated. Here, we studied the effects of pravastatin on atherosclerosis in ApoE/LDLR -/- mice fed a control and atherogenic diet. ApoE/LDLR -/- mice were fed a control (CHOW) or an atherogenic (Low Carbohydrate High Protein, LCHP) diet. Two doses of pravastatin (40mg/kg and 100mg/kg) were used. The anti-atherosclerotic effects of pravastatin in en face aorta, cross-sections of aortic roots and brachiocephalic artery (BCA) were analysed. The lipid profile was determined. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy followed by Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) clustering was used for the quantitative assessment of plaque composition. Treatment with pravastatin (100mg/kg) decreased total and LDL cholesterol only in the LCHP group, but displayed a pronounced anti-atherosclerotic effect in BCA and abdominal aorta. The anti-atherosclerotic effect of pravastatin (100mg/kg) in BCA was associated with significant alterations of the chemical plaque composition, including a fall in cholesterol and cholesterol esters contents independently on total cholesterol and LDL concentration in plasma. Pravastatin at high (100mg/kg), but not low dose displayed a pronounced anti-atherosclerotic effect in ApoE/LDLR -/- mice fed a CHOW or LCHP diet that was remarkable in BCA, visible in en face aorta, whereas it was not observed in aortic roots, suggesting that previous inconsistencies might have been due to the various sites of atherosclerotic plaque analysis. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o.

Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharides Reduce Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Interleukin-1β Expression in Cultured Smooth Muscle Cells and in Thoracic Aortas in Mice

PubMed Central

Liang, Chan-Jung; Lee, Chiang-Wen; Sung, Hsin-Ching; Chen, Yung-Hsiang; Hsu, Hsien-Yeh; Tseng, Ying-Chin; Li, Chi-Yuan; Wang, Shu-Huei

2014-01-01

The expression of inflammatory cytokines on vascular walls is a critical event in vascular diseases and inflammation. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of an extract of Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) polysaccharides (EORPs), which is effective against immunological disorders, on interleukin- (IL-) 1β expression by human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) and the underlying mechanism. The lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced IL-1β expression was significantly reduced when HASMCs were pretreated with EORP by Western blot and immunofluorescent staining. Pretreatment with 10 μg/mL EORP decreased LPS-induced ERK, p38, JNK, and Akt phosphorylation. But the increase in IL-1β expression with LPS treatment was only inhibited by pretreatment with the ERK1/2 inhibitor, while the JNK and p38 inhibitors had no effect. In addition, EORP reduced the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor- (NF-) κB p65 in LPS-treated HASMCs. Furthermore, in vivo, IL-1β expression was strongly expressed in thoracic aortas in LPS-treated mice. Oral administration of EORP decreased IL-1β expression. The level of IL-1β expression in LPS-treated or in LPS/EORP-treated group was very low and was similar to that of the saline-treated group in toll-like receptor 4-deficient (TLR4−/−) mice. These findings suggest that EORP has the anti-inflammatory property and could prove useful in the prevention of vascular diseases and inflammatory responses. PMID:24723958

The effects of Euphorbia hirta on the ultrastructure of the murine liver, kidney and aorta

PubMed Central

WONG, J.Y.R.; CHEN, Y.S.; CHAKRAVARTHI, S.; JUDSON, J.P.; L., SANTHANA RAJ; ER, H.M.

2013-01-01

Euphorbia hirta is widely used in traditional remedies and has been used cross-culturally for generations against maladies such as asthma, skin ailments and hypertension. Previous studies have demonstrated that Euphorbia hirta has antibacterial activity, and have also indicated certain antimolluscidal, antimalarial and anti-inflammatory properties, the latter of which have been suggested to be more pronounced than those of the rheumatological drug, etanercept. To date, no studies have identified the anatomical effects of this herb on the organs of test animals. This study aimed to identify the effects of Euphorbia hirta on the ultrastructure of the murine liver, kidney and aorta. A total of 32 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups; three groups were fed with aqueous extracts of Euphorbia hirta at doses of 1, 10 and 50 mg/kg, respectively, every alternate day for 50 days, while one group served as a control. The animals were later sacrificed and the liver, kidney and aorta harvested for examination by electron microscopy. The aorta showed no ultrastructural changes across the groups. Renal and hepatic tissue from the treated groups demonstrated dose-dependent injuries, which showed architectural damage beginning in the nuclei and spreading outwards. Taking into consideration the properties of Euphorbia hirta that have been described in previous studies, in addition to the results from the present study, it appears that the herb may exhibit similar effects to those of the quinolone group of antibiotics. Further in-depth investigations are required into the potential effects of Euphorbia hirta, deleterious and otherwise. PMID:24223653

High prevalence of intracranial aneurysms in patients with aortic dissection or aneurysm: feasibility of extended aorta CT angiography with involvement of intracranial arteries.

PubMed

Lee, Dahye; Ahn, Sung Jun; Cho, Eun-Suk; Kim, Yong Bae; Song, Suk-Won; Jung, Woo Sang; Suh, Sang Hyun

2017-10-01

Previous studies have suggested a higher prevalence of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) in patients with aortic aneurysms (AAs). To carry out a preliminary study to evaluate the prevalence of IAs in these patients and the diagnostic feasibility of extended aorta CT angiography (CTA), including intracranial arteries as well as the aorta. We retrospectively reviewed all patients with a clinical diagnosis of AA or aortic dissection (AD) who had undergone aorta CTA as well as MR angiography, CTA, and/or DSA of the brain between 2009 and 2014. Since 2012, the extended aorta CTA protocol has been applied in these patients. Characteristics of IAs were classified with baseline clinical data. For quantitative and qualitative assessment by two independent raters, brain images obtained by extended aorta CTA and brain CTA were compared. The radiation dose of the two aorta protocols was compared. The prevalence of IA was 22.2% (35/158). All IAs were detected by extended aorta CTA, except one small aneurysm (<3 mm). The mean vascular attenuation value between brain images showed no difference (p=0.83), but the contrast-to-noise ratio was significantly lower in extended aorta CTA (p<0.001). In qualitative assessment, the interobserver agreement was substantial (k=0.79). For the radiation dose, the dose-length product of the extended aorta CTA increased with increment of the scan range (p=0.048). With a high prevalence of IAs in patients with ADs or AAs, extended aorta CTA could be used to evaluate aorta disease and IA in a single session. However, further prospective studies are needed to prove efficacy and safety of the extended aorta CTA protocol in patients with AAs or ADs. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Geraniol improves the impaired vascular reactivity in diabetes and metabolic syndrome through calcium channel blocking effect.

PubMed

El-Bassossy, Hany M; Elberry, Ahmed A; Ghareib, Salah A

2016-08-01

The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect and possible mechanism of action of geraniol on the impaired vascular reactivity of aortic rings isolated from diabetes or metabolic syndrome (MS) -induced rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into control, type 1 diabetes and metabolic syndrome (MS) groups. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50mg/kg) and left for 10weeks to develop vascular complications. MS was induced by adding 10% fructose and 3% salt to water and diet for 12weeks. The present study investigated the effect of in vitro incubation with geraniol (10-300μM) on the vasoconstrictor response to phenylephrine (PE) and the vasodilator response to acetylcholine (ACh) as well as its effect on aortae incubated with methylglyoxal (MG) as an advanced glycation end product (AGE). To investigate the mechanism of action of geraniol, different blockers are used, including Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME, 100μM), tetraethylammonium chloride (TEA, 10mM), and indomethacin (INDO, 5μM). Moreover, the effect of calcium chloride (CaCl2) on aortic rings precontracted with PE or potassium chloride (KCl) was examined. Thirty minutes incubation with geraniol alleviated the exaggerated vasoconstriction in aortae isolated from diabetic or MS animals or in vitro exposed to MG in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, geraniol improved the vasodilatation response of diabetic or MS aortae or aortae exposed to MG. In search for the mechanism; geraniol produced concentration-dependent relaxation of both PE and KCl-precontracted aorta. Geraniol relaxation was not affected by L-NAME, INDO or TEA. However, geraniol significantly inhibited voltage dependent and receptor mediated Ca(2+)-induced contraction activated by KCl or PE respectively. In conclusion, geraniol ameliorates impaired vascular reactivity in experimentally induced diabetes and MS. The effect may be partially attributed to an endothelium-independent pathway involving blockage of both voltage dependent and receptor operated calcium channel. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

ACE2 activation by xanthenone prevents leptin-induced increases in blood pressure and proteinuria during pregnancy in Sprague-Dawley rats.

PubMed

Ibrahim, Hisham Saleh; Froemming, Gabrielle Ruth Anisah; Omar, Effat; Singh, Harbindar Jeet

2014-11-01

This study investigates the effect of ACE2 activation on leptin-induced changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP), proteinuria, endothelial activation and ACE2 expression during pregnancy in Sprague-Dawley rats. Pregnant rats were given subcutaneous injection of either saline, or leptin, or leptin plus xanthenone (ACE2 activator), or xanthenone (XTN) alone. SBP, serum ACE, ACE2, endothelin-1, E-selectin and ICAM-1 levels were estimated; also their gene expressions were determined in the kidney and aorta respectively. Compared to control, SBP was higher in the leptin-only treated group (P<0.001) and lower in rats treated with xanthenone alone (P<0.01). Proteinuria, markers of endothelial activation were significantly higher than controls in leptin-only treated rats (P<0.05). ACE2 activity and expression were lower in leptin-only treated rats when compared to controls (P<0.05). It seems, leptin administration during pregnancy significantly increases SBP, proteinuria, endothelial activation, but decreases ACE2 level and expression. These effects are prevented by concurrent administration of xanthenone. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ghrelin improves vascular autophagy in rats with vascular calcification.

PubMed

Xu, Mingming; Liu, Lin; Song, Chenfang; Chen, Wei; Gui, Shuyan

2017-06-15

This study aimed to investigate whether ghrelin ameliorated vascular calcification (VC) through improving autophagy. VC model was induced by nicotine plus vitamin D 3 in rats and β-glycerophosphate in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC). Calcium deposition was detected by von Kossa staining or alizarin red S staining. ALP activity was also detected. Western blot was used to assess the protein expression. Ghrelin treatment attenuated the elevation of calcium deposition and ALP activity in VC model both in vivo and in vitro. Interesting, the protein levels of autophagy markers, LC3 and beclin1 were significantly upregulated by ghrelin in VC model. An autophagy inhibitor, 3-methyladenine blocks the ameliorative effect of ghrelin on VC. Furthermore, protein expressions of phosphate-AMPK were increased by ghrelin treatment both in calcified aorta and VSMC. The effect of ghrelin on autophagy induction and VC attenuation was prevented by AMPK inhibitor, compound C. Our results suggested that ghrelin improved autophagy through AMPK activation, which was resulted in VC amelioration. These data maybe throw light on prevention and therapy of VC. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Effect of external abdominal aorta compression on circulation during anesthesia induction in elderly patients].

PubMed

Li, Xiuman; Wang, Lixiang

2017-07-01

To investigate the effect of external abdominal aorta compression on circulation during anesthetic induction in elderly patients. A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted. Patients with age of 60-75 years old, requiring a general anesthesia for non-abdominal surgery, and with II-III class of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification, and admitted to General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Forces from January to April in 2017 were enrolled. They were divided into abdominal aorta pressure group and control group according to random number method, with 20 patients in each group. In both groups, anesthesia was induced with midazolam, propofol, fentanyl and cisatracurium, and was maintained with propofol, remifentanil and cisatracurium. After successful intubation, the anesthesia machine was changed into mechanical ventilation. The patients in abdominal aorta pressure group were given abdominal aorta pressure 1 minute after induction of general anesthesia with midazolam till 5 minutes after intubation. The mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and blood oxygen saturation (SpO 2 ) were observed before anesthesia induction, immediately after anesthesia induction, immediately after intubation, 5 minutes and 10 minutes after intubation, respectively. The incidence of hypotension or bradycardia, and usage of ephedrine or atropine were recorded. There were no significant differences in MAP [mmHg (1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa): 83.6±4.7 vs. 82.9±4.7], HR (bpm: 67.3±5.9 vs. 65.9±5.7) and SpO 2 (0.962±0.007 vs. 0.960±0.009) before anesthesia induction between abdominal aorta pressure group and control group (all P > 0.05). Immediately after anesthesia induction, the MAP and HR in control group were significantly decreased as compared with those before anesthesia induction [MAP (mmHg): 70.0±8.7 vs. 82.9±4.7, HR (bpm): 60.7±6.7 vs. 65.9±5.7, both P < 0.05], and they were also significantly lower than those of abdominal aorta pressure group [MAP (mmHg): 83.1±3.9, HR (bpm): 66.8±4.9, both P < 0.05]. Immediately after intubation, the MAP and HR in control group were significantly increased as compared with those immediately after anesthesia induction [MAP (mmHg): 78.9±7.9 vs. 70.0±8.7, HR (bpm): 67.3±2.7 vs. 60.7±6.7, both P < 0.05], but the changes in MAP and HR in abdominal aorta pressure group were not obvious. During the anesthesia induction period, there was no statistical difference in SpO 2 change between the two groups. During induction of anesthesia, no adverse reaction was found in the abdominal aorta pressure group, but 4 patients with hypotension and 2 patients with bradycardia were found in the control group. Two patients with hypotension were treated with ephedrine, and 2 patients with bradycardia were treated with atropine. Anesthesia induction of elderly patients with abdominal aorta pressure can help maintain hemodynamic stability.

Central-Approach Surgical Repair of Coarctation of the Aorta with a Back-up Left Ventricular Assist Device for an Infant Presenting with Severe Left Ventricular Dysfunction.

PubMed

Kim, Tae Hoon; Shin, Yu Rim; Kim, Young Sam; Kim, Do Jung; Kim, Hyohyun; Shin, Hong Ju; Htut, Aung Thein; Park, Han Ki

2015-12-01

A two-month-old infant presented with coarctation of the aorta, severe left ventricular dysfunction, and moderate to severe mitral regurgitation. Through median sternotomy, the aortic arch was repaired under cardiopulmonary bypass and regional cerebral perfusion. The patient was postoperatively supported with a left ventricular assist device for five days. Left ventricular function gradually improved, eventually recovering with the concomitant regression of mitral regurgitation. Prompt surgical repair of coarctation of the aorta is indicated for patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction. A central approach for surgical repair with a back-up left ventricular assist device is a safe and effective treatment strategy for these patients.

Techniques of imaging of the aorta and its first order branches by endoscopic ultrasound (with videos)

PubMed Central

Sharma, Malay; Rai, Praveer; Mehta, Varun; Rameshbabu, C. S.

2015-01-01

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is a useful modality for imaging of the blood vessels of the mediastinum and abdomen. The aorta acts as an important home base during EUS imaging. The aorta and its branches are accessible by standard angiographic methods, but endosonography also provides a unique opportunity to evaluate the aorta and its branches. This article describes the techniques of imaging of different part of the aorta by EUS. PMID:26020043

N,N-diacetyl-L-cystine improves endothelial function in atherosclerotic Watanabe heritable hyperlipidaemic rabbits.

PubMed

Pettersson, Knut S; Eliasson, Ulla Brandt; Abrahamsson, Tommy; Wågberg, Maria; Carrier, Martin; Kengatharan, Ken M

2007-01-01

N,N-diacetyl-L-cystine (DiNAC), a novel immunomodulator, stimulates contact sensitivity/delayed type hypersensitivity reactions in mice induced by oxazolone and reduces atherosclerosis in Watanabe heritable hyperlipidaemic (WHHL) rabbits. Forty-week-old WHHL rabbits were given DiNAC (3 micromol/kg per day) for 8 weeks, and endothelium-mediated dilatation was investigated in vivo using pulse wave analysis. A significant improvement in endothelial function was found after 3 weeks of treatment, which was further improved after 8 weeks. For experiments on isolated blood vessels, 40-week-old rabbits were treated for 3 weeks. Treatment did not affect plasma lipid levels. At termination, aortic rings from the thoracic and abdominal aorta were contracted with phenylephrine in vitro. Concentration-effect curves to acetylcholine and the calcium ionophore A 23187 were used to measure endothelium-mediated vasodilatation, and nitroprusside to elicit endothelium-independent relaxations. Abdominal aorta relaxations were generally larger than in thoracic aorta. DiNAC improved endothelium-dependent relaxations in the abdominal but not in the thoracic aorta. This effect was independent of the degree of atherosclerosis. It is concluded that DiNAC improved endothelial function in atherosclerotic rabbit arteries in vivo and in vitro, and may represent a new treatment modality for atherosclerosis-related diseases.

Analysis of non-Newtonian effects within an aorta-iliac bifurcation region.

PubMed

Iasiello, Marcello; Vafai, Kambiz; Andreozzi, Assunta; Bianco, Nicola

2017-11-07

The geometry of the arteries at or near arterial bifurcation influences the blood flow field, which is an important factor affecting arteriogenesis. The blood can act sometimes as a non-Newtonian fluid. However, many studies have argued that for large and medium arteries, the blood flow can be considered to be Newtonian. In this work a comprehensive investigation of non-Newtonian effects on the blood fluid dynamic behavior in an aorta-iliac bifurcation is presented. The aorta-iliac geometry is reconstructed with references to the values reported in Shah et al. (1978); the 3D geometrical model consists of three filleted cylinders of different diameters. Governing equations with the appropriate boundary conditions are solved with a finite-element code. Different rheological models are used for the blood flow through the lumen and detailed comparisons are presented for the aorta-iliac bifurcation. Results are presented in terms of the velocity profiles in the bifurcation zone and Wall Shear Stress (WSS) for different sides of the bifurcation both for male and female geometries, showing that the Newtonian fluid assumption can be made without any particular loss in terms of accuracy with respect to the other more complex rheological models. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Expression of platelet-derived growth factor B is upregulated in patients with thoracic aortic dissection.

PubMed

Meng, Weixin; Liu, Shangdian; Li, Dandan; Liu, Zonghong; Yang, Hui; Sun, Bo; Liu, Hongyu

2018-04-20

Thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) is a serious condition requiring urgent treatment to avoid catastrophic consequences. The inflammatory response is involved in the occurrence and development of TAD, possibly potentiated by platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs). This study aimed to determine whether expression of PDGF-B (a subunit of PDGF-BB) was increased in TAD patients and to explore the factors responsible for its upregulation and subsequent effects on TAD. Full-thickness ascending aorta wall specimens from TAD patients (n = 15) and control patients (n = 10) were examined for expression of PDGF-B and its receptor (PDGFRB) and in terms of morphology, inflammation, and fibrosis. Blood samples from TAD and control patients were collected to detect plasma levels of PDGF-BB and soluble elastins. Expression levels of PDGF-B, PDGFRB, and collagen I were significantly enhanced in ascending aorta wall specimens from TAD patients compared with controls. Furthermore, soluble elastic fragments and PDGF-BB were significantly increased in plasma from TAD patients compared with controls, and numerous irregular elastic fibers and macrophages were seen in the ascending aorta wall in TAD patients. An increase in elastic fragments in the aorta wall might be responsible for inducing the activation and migration of macrophages to injured sites, leading to elevated expression of PDGF-B, which in turn induces deposition of collagen, disrupts extracellular matrix homeostasis, and increases the stiffness of the aorta wall, resulting in compromised aorta compliance. Copyright © 2018 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Initiating life-long aerobic exercise 4-5 days/week before or near age 50 years: is this the "holy-grail" of preventing age-related central artery stiffness?

PubMed

Pierce, Gary L

2018-05-22

Stiffening of the large elastic central arteries, including the aorta and carotid arteries, occurs with advancing age in sedentary adults and predicts cardiovascular disease (CVD) events independent of blood pressure and other risk factors. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Structural and functional characterization of the contractile aorta and associated hemocytes of the mosquito Anopheles gambiae.

PubMed

Sigle, Leah T; Hillyer, Julián F

2018-06-22

The primary pump of the circulatory system of insects is a dorsal vessel that traverses the length of the insect. The anterior portion, located in the head, neck and thorax, is the aorta, and the posterior portion, located in the abdomen, is the heart. Here, we characterize the structure and function of the aorta and conical chamber of the mosquito, Anopheles gambiae The aorta begins in the head with an excurrent opening located above the dorsal pharyngeal plate and ends at the thoraco-abdominal junction where it joins the conical chamber of the heart. The aorta lacks ostia, and based on the diameter of the vessel as well as the density and helical orientation of muscle, consists of three regions: the anterior aorta, the bulbous chamber, and the posterior aorta. The aorta contracts in the anterograde direction, but these contractions are independent of heart contractions and do not play a major role in hemolymph propulsion. Intravital imaging of the venous channels, the first abdominal segment and the neck revealed that hemolymph only travels through the aorta in the anterograde direction, and does so only during periods of anterograde heart flow. Furthermore, hemolymph only enters the thoraco-abdominal ostia of the conical chamber when the heart contracts in the retrograde direction, propelling this hemolymph to the posterior of the body. Finally, very few hemocytes associate with the aorta, and unlike what is seen in the periostial regions of the heart, infection does not induce the aggregation of hemocytes on the aorta. © 2018. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Suppression of atherosclerotic changes in cholesterol-fed rabbits treated with an oral inhibitor of neutral endopeptidase 24.11 (EC 3.4.24.11).

PubMed

Kugiyama, K; Sugiyama, S; Matsumura, T; Ohta, Y; Doi, H; Yasue, H

1996-08-01

Neutral endopeptidase 24.11 (NEP), widely distributed in the body, hydrolyzes and inactivates a number of endogenous vasoactive peptides, some of which could alter various functions of cells present in the arterial wall. Recently NEP has been found to exist in the vascular endothelium. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of chronic NEP inhibition by daily administration of UK79300 (candoxatril), an orally active NEP inhibitor (NEPI), on the development of atherosclerotic changes in high-cholesterol-fed rabbits. Male New Zealand White rabbits were fed for 8 weeks as follows: normal rabbit diet (Normal, n = 15), 1.5% cholesterol diet (Cholesterol, n = 15), or 1.5% cholesterol diet containing NEPI (20 mg.kg-1.d-1) (Cholesterol+NEPI, n = 15). At the end of the dietary period, NEPI treatment was found to suppress the surface area of the aorta covered by plaques (% surface area: Cholesterol, 59 +/- 6 versus Cholesterol+NEPI, 36 +/- 7, P < .01) and decreased contents of cholesterol and cholesterol esters in the aortas. NEPI also reduced plasma total cholesterol by 27% of Cholesterol rabbits (1781 +/- 130 mg/dL). The endothelial function, estimated by the endothelium-dependent relaxation of the isolated aortas in response to acetylcholine, was preserved in Cholesterol+NEPI rabbits compared with that in Cholesterol rabbits. NEP enzymatic activities in plasma and the particulate fraction of the homogenates from the aortas in Cholesterol rabbits were both increased, 3.1- and 3.9-fold, respectively, above those in Normal rabbits, but the activities in Cholesterol+NEPI rabbits were significantly lower than those in Cholesterol rabbits. UK73967, an active form of UK79300, or phosphoramidon partly reversed the atherosclerotic impairment of relaxation of the isolated thoracic aortic rings from Cholesterol rabbits in response to exogenous additions of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) and substance P, which are NEP substrates known to exist endogenously in the vascular endothelium. The results suggest that the increased NEP activity plays a significant role in atherogenesis, and NEPIs might be therapeutically useful in the prevention of atherosclerosis. Reduction of plasma cholesterol and suppression of degradations in the arteries of endogenously released CNP, substance P, or possibly other kinins known to have anti-atherosclerotic actions may at least partially contribute to the inhibitory effects of NEPIs on atherosclerotic changes.

PA02.22. Hypolipidemic effect of different coconut oil extracts of vyosakatvivaradi formulation in wistar rats.

PubMed Central

Mahapatra, Anita; Rajurkar, Sudhir; Eranezhath, Sujith; Manohar, Ram

2013-01-01

Purpose: To study the preventive and therapeutic Hypolipidemic effect of different coconut oil extracts of Vyosakatvivaradi formulation. Method: High fat diet was fed for 21 days to induce Hyperlipidemia. 110 weanling wistar rats randomly divided in to Eleven groups, four in treatment, four in preventive group, two control and one standarad group. Four test drugs – 1. VCO (virgin coconut oil) + HERBS, 2. TCO (Traditional coconut oil) + HERBS, 3. CCO (Commercial coconut oil) + HERBS, 4. TCO + Coconut Milk + HERBS were administered at the dose rate of 0.06ml tid orally for 28 days in treatment group and 28 days in preventive group from the day one of experiment and the results were compared with Simvastatin 10 mg. All the animals were anesthetized using anesthetic ether and pooled blood samples from each group were collected on day Zero, day 21st and on termination day i.e. day 28th after start of actual treatment. Result: Animals in all groups did not reveal any change in their behavior or visible adverse reaction throughout the experimental period. Statistically significant reduction in mean triglyceride values in test drug -4 animals revealed preventive. Statistically significant reduction in the mean cholesterol level (mg/dl) was observed in test drug -4 animals. Statistically significant increase in the mean HDL level 5% level of significance was observed in preventive dose of test drug 3. Microscopic observations of liver, kidney and aorta revealed no significant change. Conclusion: The medicated oil “CCO + HERBS” and TCO + Coconut Milk + HERBS” showed encouraging therapeutic and preventive effects on hyperlipidemia. However, the oil “TCO + Coconut Milk + HERBS” is observed to be better than the oil CCO + HERBS. Though the oils “VCO + HERBS” and “TCO + HERBS” exhibited moderate hypolipidemic action.

Anti-hypertensive effects of the methanol/methylene chloride stem bark extract of Mammea africana in l-NAME-induced hypertensive rats.

PubMed

Nguelefack-Mbuyo, P E; Nguelefack, T B; Dongmo, A B; Afkir, S; Azebaze, A G B; Dimo, T; Legssyer, A; Kamanyi, A; Ziyyat, A

2008-05-22

The methanol/methylene chloride (CH(3)OH/CH(2)Cl(2)) extract from the stem bark of Mammea africana was showed to possess vasodilating effect in the presence and the absence of N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME). The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of the methanol/methylene chloride from the stem bark of Mammea africana. The extract (200 mg/(kg day)) was administered orally in rats treated concurrently with l-NAME (40 mg/(kg day)). l-Arginine (100 mg/(kg day)) and captopril (20 mg/(kg day))were used as positive controls. Bodyweight, systolic arterial blood pressure and heart rate were measured weekly throughout the experiment period (28 days). At the end of treatment, animals were killed and the cardiac mass index evaluated. The aorta was used to evaluate the endothelium-dependant relaxation to carbachol. The aorta contraction induced by noradrenalin was also examined and expressed as a percentage of that induced by KCl. The extract neither affected the body weight nor the heart rate. The extract as captopril completely prevented the development of arterial hypertension. Both the substances failed to restore the endothelium-dependent vascular relaxation and increased the vascular contraction to norepinephrine in relation to KCl contraction. They also significantly reduced the left ventricular hypertrophy induced by l-NAME. These findings are in agreement with the traditional use of Mammea africana in the treatment of arterial hypertension and indicate that it may have a beneficial effect in patients with NO deficiency but will be unable to improve their endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation.

Protective effect of hexane extracts of Uncaria sinensis against photothrombotic ischemic injury in mice.

PubMed

Park, Sun Haeng; Kim, Ji Hyun; Park, Se Jin; Bae, Sun Sik; Choi, Young Whan; Hong, Jin Woo; Choi, Byung Tae; Shin, Hwa Kyoung

2011-12-08

Uncaria sinensis (US) has been used in traditional Korean medicine to treat vascular disease and to relieve various neurological symptoms. Scientific evidence related to the effectiveness or action mechanism of US on cerebrovascular disease has not been examined experimentally. Here, we investigated the cerebrovascular protective effect of US extracts on photothrombotic ischemic injury in mice. US hexane extracts (HEUS), ethyl acetate extracts (EAEUS) and methanol extracts (MEUS) were administered intraperitoneally 30 min before ischemic insults. Focal cerebral ischemia was induced in C57BL/6J mice and endothelial nitric oxide synthase knockout (eNOS KO) mice by photothrombotic cortical occlusion. We evaluated the infarct volume, neurological score and the activation of Akt and eNOS in ischemic brain. HEUS more significantly reduced infarct volume and edema than did EAEUS and MEUS following photothrombotic cortical occlusion. HEUS produced decreased infarct volume and edema size, and improved neurological function in a concentration-dependent manner (10, 50, and 100 mg/kg). However, HEUS did not reduce brain infarction in eNOS KO mice, suggesting that the protective effect of HEUS is primarily endothelium-dependent. Furthermore, HEUS (10-300 μg/ml) produced a concentration-dependent relaxation in mouse aorta and rat basilar artery, which was not seen in eNOS KO mouse aorta, suggesting that HEUS cause vasodilation via an eNOS-dependent mechanism. This correlated with increased phosphorylation of Akt and eNOS in the brains of HEUS-treated mice. HEUS prevent cerebral ischemic damage by regulating Akt/eNOS signaling. US, herbal medicine, may be the basis of a novel strategy for the therapy of stroke. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Apico-brachiocephalic artery bypass for aortic stenosis with porcelain aorta.

PubMed

Shimizu, Shuji; Nakai, Mikizo; Itoh, Atsushi; Yoshizumi, Ko; Ochi, Yoshiki; Okada, Masahiro; Sano, Shunji

2010-02-01

Apicoaortic bypass for left ventricular outflow tract obstruction has been performed with acceptable mid-term mortality. However, sometimes it is difficult to anastomose the distal end of the conduit to the calcified descending aorta in patients with a porcelain aorta. We report an aortic non-touch modification of the apicoaortic bypass in an 80-year-old woman with valvular aortic stenosis and a porcelain aorta extending from the ascending to abdominal aorta. We performed apico-brachiocephalic artery bypass under circulatory arrest with deep hypothermia. This procedure may become a useful surgical option for patients with a severe porcelain aorta. 2010 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Lidocaine Prevents Oxidative Stress-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction of the Systemic Artery in Rats With Intermittent Periodontal Inflammation.

PubMed

Saito, Takumi; Yamamoto, Yasuhiro; Feng, Guo-Gang; Kazaoka, Yoshiaki; Fujiwara, Yoshihiro; Kinoshita, Hiroyuki

2017-06-01

Periodontal inflammation causes endothelial dysfunction of the systemic artery. However, it is unknown whether the use of local anesthetics during painful dental procedures alleviates periodontal inflammation and systemic endothelial function. This study was designed to examine whether the gingival or systemic injection of lidocaine prevents oxidative stress-induced endothelial dysfunction of the systemic artery in rats with intermittent periodontal inflammation caused by lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Some rats received 1500 µg LPS injections to the gingiva during a week interval from the age of 8 to 11 weeks (LPS group). Lidocaine (3 mg/kg), LPS + lidocaine (3 mg/kg), LPS + lidocaine (1.5 mg/kg), and LPS + lidocaine (3 mg/kg, IP) groups simultaneously received gingival 1.5 or 3 mg/kg or IP 3 mg/kg injection of lidocaine on the same schedule as the gingival LPS. Isolated aortas or mandibles were subjected to the evaluation of histopathologic change, isometric force recording, reactive oxygen species, and Western immunoblotting. Mean blood pressure and heart rate did not differ among the control, LPS, LPS + lidocaine (3 mg/kg), and lidocaine (3 mg/kg) groups. LPS application reduced acetylcholine (ACh, 10 to 10 mol/L)-induced relaxation (29% difference at ACh 3 × 10 mol/L, P = .01), which was restored by catalase. Gingival lidocaine (1.5 and 3 mg/kg) dose dependently prevented the endothelial dysfunction caused by LPS application (24.5%-31.1% difference at ACh 3 × 10 mol/L, P = .006 or .001, respectively). Similar to the gingival application, the IP injection of lidocaine (3 mg/kg) restored the ACh-induced dilation of isolated aortas from rats with the LPS application (27.5% difference at ACh 3 × 10 mol/L, P < .001). Levels of reactive oxygen species were double in aortas from the LPS group (P < .001), whereas the increment was abolished by polyethylene glycol-catalase, gingival lidocaine (3 mg/kg), or the combination. The LPS induced a 4-fold increase in the protein expression of tumor necrosis factor-α in the periodontal tissue (P < .001), whereas the lidocaine (3 mg/kg) coadministration partly reduced the levels. Lidocaine application also decreased the protein expression of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase subunit p47phox, which was enhanced by the gingival LPS (5.6-fold increase; P < .001). Lidocaine preserved the aortic endothelial function through a decrease in arterial reactive oxygen species produced by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase and periodontal tumor necrosis factor-α levels in rats with periodontal inflammation. These results suggest the beneficial effect of the gingival application of local anesthetics on the treatment of periodontal diseases on endothelial function of systemic arteries.

Antihypertensive and vasorelaxant effects of aqueous extract of Artemisia campestris L. from Eastern Morocco.

PubMed

Dib, Ikram; Tits, Monique; Angenot, Luc; Wauters, Jean Noel; Assaidi, Asmae; Mekhfi, Hassane; Aziz, Mohammed; Bnouham, Mohammed; Legssyer, Abdelkhaleq; Frederich, Michel; Ziyyat, Abderrahim

2017-07-12

Artemisia campestris L. (Asteraceae) has many traditional uses, among which treatment of diabetes and hypertension. This study was conducted in order to confirm the antihypertensive and hypotensive effects of A. campestris L. aqueous extract (AcAE) and to explore the underlying mechanism of action of its vasorelaxant effect, besides the acute toxicity. Also, the chemical composition of AcAE was investigated. the chemical content of AcAE was determined by using HPLC and NMR techniques. The antihypertensive effect was assessed indirectly by tail-cuff method on L-NAME induced hypertensive rats, while the hypotensive action was monitored intravenously by invasive method on normotensive rats. The vasorelaxant effect and vascular mechanism of action were studied in the presence of antagonists and blockers on aorta isolated from normotensive rats. On the other side, the acute toxicity was studied by oral feeding of extract to the mice. The global phytochemical profile of AcAE reveals the presence of several polyphenols as main components. A. campestris L. infusion was characterized by mono- and di-cinnamoyl compounds, with 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic (isochlorogenic A) acid being the main compound, followed by 5-caffeoylquinic (chlorogenic) acid. Vicenin-2 (apigenin 6,8-di-C-glucoside) appeared to be the most abundant compound among flavonoids. The daily treatment with AcAE at 150mg/kg/day prevented the installation of hypertension on L-NAME hypertensive rats, and reduced SBP from 172mmHg up to 144mmHg. At the dose 40mg/kg, AcAE provoked reduction of systolic (SBP), diastolic (DBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP), without affecting the heart rate. Also, AcAE (10 -2 -2mg/ml) relaxed the precontracted aorta by 95.8±1.3%. The denudation and preincubation of aorta with atropine, calmidazolium, L-NAME, hydroxycobalamin, ODQ, 8-RP-Br-PET-cGMP, thapsigargin and verapamil attenuated the vasorelaxant response, while the pre-treatment with 4-AP, TEA, glibenclamide and BaCl 2 did not alter this effect. The oral administration of AcAE (0-6g/kg) reveals no mortality or toxicity. our study proved that AcAE possess an important antihypertensive, hypotensive and vasorelaxant effect, which is mediated via calmodulin-NO-cGC-PKG pathway, and via inhibition of calcium influx through voltage-operated calcium channels and activation of intracellular calcium mobilization into sarcoplasmic reticulum. Therefore, our findings give first evidence about the traditional use of A. campestris L. as antihypertensive plant. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fluid dynamics of coarctation of the aorta: analytical solution, in vitro validation and in vivo evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keshavarz-Motamed, Zahra

2015-11-01

Coarctation of the aorta (COA) is a congenital heart disease corresponding to a narrowing in the aorta. Cardiac catheterization is considered to be the reference standard for definitive evaluation of COA severity, based on the peak-to-peak trans-coarctation pressure gradient (PtoP TCPG) and instantaneous systolic value of trans-COA pressure gradient (TCPG). However, invasive cardiac catheterization may carry high risks given that undergoing multiple follow-up cardiac catheterizations in patients with COA is common. The objective of this study is to present an analytical description of the COA that estimates PtoP TCPG and TCPG without a need for high risk invasive data collection. Coupled Navier-Stokes and elastic deformation equations were solved analytically to estimate TCPG and PtoP TCPG. The results were validated against data measured in vitro (e.g., 90% COA: TCPG: root mean squared error (RMSE) = 3.93 mmHg; PtoP TCPG: RMSE = 7.9 mmHg). Moreover, the estimated PtoP TCPG resulted from the suggested analytical description was validated using clinical data in twenty patients with COA (maximum RMSE: 8.3 mmHg). Very good correlation and concordance were found between TCPG and PtoP TCPG obtained from the analytical formulation and in vitro and in vivo data. The suggested methodology can be considered as an alternative to cardiac catheterization and can help preventing its risks.

Rapid prototyping in aortic surgery.

PubMed

Bangeas, Petros; Voulalas, Grigorios; Ktenidis, Kiriakos

2016-04-01

3D printing provides the sequential addition of material layers and, thus, the opportunity to print parts and components made of different materials with variable mechanical and physical properties. It helps us create 3D anatomical models for the better planning of surgical procedures when needed, since it can reveal any complex anatomical feature. Images of abdominal aortic aneurysms received by computed tomographic angiography were converted into 3D images using a Google SketchUp free software and saved in stereolithography format. Using a 3D printer (Makerbot), a model made of polylactic acid material (thermoplastic filament) was printed. A 3D model of an abdominal aorta aneurysm was created in 138 min, while the model was a precise copy of the aorta visualized in the computed tomographic images. The total cost (including the initial cost of the printer) reached 1303.00 euros. 3D imaging and modelling using different materials can be very useful in cases when anatomical difficulties are recognized through the computed tomographic images and a tactile approach is demanded preoperatively. In this way, major complications during abdominal aorta aneurysm management can be predicted and prevented. Furthermore, the model can be used as a mould; the development of new, more biocompatible, less antigenic and individualized can become a challenge in the future. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Axial nonuniformity of geometric and mechanical properties of mouse aorta is increased during postnatal growth.

PubMed

Huang, Yi; Guo, Xiaomei; Kassab, Ghassan S

2006-02-01

The hemodynamic conditions of aorta are relatively uniform prenatally and become more heterogeneous postnatally. Our objective was to quantify the heterogeneity of geometry and mechanical properties during growth and development. To accomplish this objective, we obtained a systematic set of data on the geometry and mechanical properties along the length of mouse aorta during postnatal development. C57BL/6 mice of ages 1-33 days were studied. The ascending aorta was cannulated in situ and preconditioned with several cyclic changes in pressure. We investigated the axial variations of geometry (diameter and length) and mechanical properties (stress-stain relation, elastic modulus and compliance) of the mouse aorta from the aortic valve to the common iliac. Our results show that the arterial blood pressure of mice increased from approximately 30 to 80 mmHg during the first 2 wk of life. The stretch ratio, diameter, wall (intima-media) thickness, and total lumen volume of mouse aorta increased with age. The aorta was transformed from a cylindrical tube at birth to a tapered structure during growth. Furthermore, we found the mechanical properties were fairly uniform along the length of the aorta at birth and become more nonuniform with age. We conclude that the rapid change of blood pressure and blood flow after birth alter the geometric and mechanical properties differentially along the length of the aorta. Hence, the axial nonuniformity of the aorta increases as the organ becomes more specialized during growth and development.

Contribution of elastin and collagen to the inflation response of the pig thoracic aorta: assessing elastin's role in mechanical homeostasis.

PubMed

Lillie, M A; Armstrong, T E; Gérard, S G; Shadwick, R E; Gosline, J M

2012-08-09

This study was undertaken to understand elastin's role in the mechanical homeostasis of the arterial wall. The mechanical properties of elastin vary along the aorta, and we hypothesized this maintained a uniform mechanical environment for the elastin, despite regional variation in loading. Elastin's physiological loading was determined by comparing the inflation response of intact and autoclave purified elastin aortas from the proximal and distal thoracic aorta. Elastin's stretch and stress depend on collagen recruitment. Collagen recruitment started in the proximal aorta at systolic pressures (13.3 to 14.6 kPa) and in the distal at sub-diastolic pressures (9.3 to 10.6 kPa). In the proximal aorta collagen did not contribute significantly to the stress or stiffness, indicating that elastin determined the vessel properties. In the distal aorta, the circumferential incremental modulus was 70% higher than in the proximal aorta, half of which (37%) was due to a stiffening of the elastin. Compared to the elastin tissue in the proximal aorta, the distal elastin suffered higher physiological circumferential stretch (29%, P=0.03), circumferential stress (39%, P=0.02), and circumferential stiffness (37%, P=0.006). Elastin's physiological axial stresses were also higher (67%, P=0.003). These findings do not support the hypothesis that the loading on elastin is constant along the aorta as we expected from homeostasis. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Age-Related Vascular Changes Affect Turbulence in Aortic Blood Flow

PubMed Central

Ha, Hojin; Ziegler, Magnus; Welander, Martin; Bjarnegård, Niclas; Carlhäll, Carl-Johan; Lindenberger, Marcus; Länne, Toste; Ebbers, Tino; Dyverfeldt, Petter

2018-01-01

Turbulent blood flow is implicated in the pathogenesis of several aortic diseases but the extent and degree of turbulent blood flow in the normal aorta is unknown. We aimed to quantify the extent and degree of turbulece in the normal aorta and to assess whether age impacts the degree of turbulence. 22 young normal males (23.7 ± 3.0 y.o.) and 20 old normal males (70.9 ± 3.5 y.o.) were examined using four dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging (4D Flow MRI) to quantify the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), a measure of the intensity of turbulence, in the aorta. All healthy subjects developed turbulent flow in the aorta, with total TKE of 3–19 mJ. The overall degree of turbulence in the entire aorta was similar between the groups, although the old subjects had about 73% more total TKE in the ascending aorta compared to the young subjects (young = 3.7 ± 1.8 mJ, old = 6.4 ± 2.4 mJ, p < 0.001). This increase in ascending aorta TKE in old subjects was associated with age-related dilation of the ascending aorta which increases the volume available for turbulence development. Conversely, age-related dilation of the descending and abdominal aorta decreased the average flow velocity and suppressed the development of turbulence. In conclusion, turbulent blood flow develops in the aorta of normal subjects and is impacted by age-related geometric changes. Non-invasive assessment enables the determination of normal levels of turbulent flow in the aorta which is a prerequisite for understanding the role of turbulence in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease. PMID:29422871

Aortic angiography

MedlinePlus

Angiography - aorta; Aortography; Abdominal aorta angiogram; Aortic arteriogram; Aneurysm - aortic arteriogram ... this needle. The catheter is moved into the aorta. The doctor can see live images of the ...

Magnolol attenuates VCAM-1 expression in vitro in TNF-α-treated human aortic endothelial cells and in vivo in the aorta of cholesterol-fed rabbits

PubMed Central

Chen, Yung-Hsiang; Lin, Shing-Jong; Chen, Jaw-Wen; Ku, Hung-Hai; Chen, Yuh-Lien

2002-01-01

In a previous study, we showed that magnolol, a potent antioxidant derived from a Chinese herb, attenuates monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) expression and intimal hyperplasia in the balloon-injured aorta of cholesterol-fed rabbits. Expression of cell adhesion molecules by the arterial endothelium and the attachment of leukocytes to the endothelium may play a major role in atherosclerosis. In the present study, the effects of magnolol on the expression of endothelial-leukocyte adhesion molecules and the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-treated human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were investigated.Pretreatment of HAECs with magnolol (5 μM) significantly suppressed the TNF-α-induced expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) (64.8±1.9%), but had no effect on the expression of intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 and endothelial cell selectin.Magnolol (5 and 10 μM) significantly reduced the binding of the human monocytic cell line, U937, to TNF-α-stimulated HAECs (58.4 and 56.4% inhibition, respectively). Gel shift assays using the 32P-labelled NF-κB consensus sequence as probe showed that magnolol pretreatment reduced the density of the shifted bands seen after TNF-α-induced activation. Immunoblot analysis and immunofluorescence staining of nuclear extracts demonstrated a 58% reduction in the amount of NF-κB p65 in the nuclei in magnolol-treated HAECs. Magnolol also attenuated intracellular H2O2 generation in both control and TNF-α treated HAECs.Furthermore, in vivo, magnolol attenuates the intimal thickening and TNF-α and VCAM-1 protein expression seen in the thoracic aortas of cholesterol-fed rabbits.Taken together, these data demonstrate that magnolol inhibits TNF-α-induced nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 and thereby suppresses expression of VCAM-1, resulting in reduced adhesion of leukocytes. These results suggest that magnolol has anti-inflammatory properties and may play important roles in the prevention of atherosclerosis and inflammatory responses in vivo. PMID:11786478

Fluid mechanics of Windkessel effect.

PubMed

Mei, C C; Zhang, J; Jing, H X

2018-01-08

We describe a mechanistic model of Windkessel phenomenon based on the linear dynamics of fluid-structure interactions. The phenomenon has its origin in an old-fashioned fire-fighting equipment where an air chamber serves to transform the intermittent influx from a pump to a more steady stream out of the hose. A similar mechanism exists in the cardiovascular system where blood injected intermittantly from the heart becomes rather smooth after passing through an elastic aorta. In existing haeodynamics literature, this mechanism is explained on the basis of electric circuit analogy with empirical impedances. We present a mechanistic theory based on the principles of fluid/structure interactions. Using a simple one-dimensional model, wave motion in the elastic aorta is coupled to the viscous flow in the rigid peripheral artery. Explicit formulas are derived that exhibit the role of material properties such as the blood density, viscosity, wall elasticity, and radii and lengths of the vessels. The current two-element model in haemodynamics is shown to be the limit of short aorta and low injection frequency and the impedance coefficients are derived theoretically. Numerical results for different aorta lengths and radii are discussed to demonstrate their effects on the time variations of blood pressure, wall shear stress, and discharge. Graphical Abstract A mechanistic analysis of Windkessel Effect is described which confirms theoretically the well-known feature that intermittent influx becomes continuous outflow. The theory depends only on the density and viscosity of the blood, the elasticity and dimensions of the vessel. Empirical impedence parameters are avoided.

Effect of Bioactive Compound of Aronia melanocarpa on Cardiovascular System in Experimental Hypertension

PubMed Central

Klimentova, Jana; Janega, Pavol

2017-01-01

Aronia melanocarpa has attracted scientific interest due to its dense contents of different polyphenols. We aimed to analyse effects of Aronia melanocarpa (AME) extract on blood pressure (BP), lipid peroxidation, cytokine level, total NOS activity in the left ventricle (LV), and aorta of L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. 12-week-old male WKY rats were assigned to the control group and groups treated with AME extract (57.90 mg/kg/day), L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day), or combination of L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day) and AME (57.90 mg/kg/day) in tap water for 3 weeks. NOS activity, eNOS protein expression, and conjugated diene (CD) concentration were determined in the LV and aorta. After 3 weeks of L-NAME treatment, BP was increased by 28% and concomitant treatment with AME reduced it by 21%. NOS activity of the LV and aorta in the L-NAME group was decreased by about 40%, while AME increased it almost on the control level. AME-induced eNOS upregulation may contribute to increase NOS activity. Moreover, AME decreased CD concentration in the LV and aorta and TNF-α and IL-6 production in the plasma were increased by L-NAME treatment. In conclusion, our results showed that active substances of Aronia melanocarpa may have a positive effect on blood pressure, NOS activity, and proinflammatory processes in L-NAME-induced hypertension. PMID:29333212

Increased superoxide production and altered nitric oxide-mediated relaxation in the aorta of young but not old male relaxin-deficient mice.

PubMed

Ng, Hooi H; Jelinic, Maria; Parry, Laura J; Leo, Chen-Huei

2015-07-15

The vascular effects of exogenous relaxin (Rln) treatment are well established and include decreased myogenic reactivity and enhanced relaxation responses to vasodilators in small resistance arteries. These vascular responses are reduced in older animals, suggesting that Rln is less effective in mediating arterial function with aging. The present study investigated the role of endogenous Rln in the aorta and the possibility that vascular dysfunction occurs more rapidly with aging in Rln-deficient (Rln(-/-)) mice. We compared vascular function and underlying vasodilatory pathways in the aorta of male wild-type (Rln(+/+)) and Rln(-/-) mice at 4 and 16 mo of age using wire myography. Superoxide production, but not nitrotyrosine or NADPH oxidase expression, was significantly increased in the aorta of young Rln(-/-) mice, whereas endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase and basal NO availability were both significantly decreased compared with Rln(+/+) mice. In the presence of the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin, sensitivity to ACh was significantly decreased in young Rln(-/-) mice, demonstrating altered NO-mediated relaxation that was normalized in the presence of a membrane-permeable SOD or ROS scavenger. These vascular phenotypes were not exacerbated in old Rln(-/-) mice and, in most cases, did not differ significantly from old Rln(+/+) mice. Despite the vascular phenotypes in Rln(-/-) mice, endothelium-dependent and -independent vasodilation were not adversely affected. Our data show a role for endogenous Rln in reducing superoxide production and maintaining NO availability in the aorta but also demonstrate that Rln deficiency does not compromise vascular function in this artery or exacerbate endothelial dysfunction associated with aging. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Chronic resveratrol enhances endothelium-dependent relaxation but does not alter eNOS levels in aorta of spontaneously hypertensive rats.

PubMed

Rush, James W E; Quadrilatero, Joe; Levy, Andrew S; Ford, Rebecca J

2007-06-01

Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) were administered the red wine polyphenol resveratrol in drinking water at 0, 0.448, or 4.48 mg/l (control, low, or high, respectively) for 28 days. The low dosage was chosen to mimic moderate red wine consumption. After the treatment period, thoracic aorta rings were excised for in vitro assessment of vasomotor function. Chronic resveratrol significantly improved endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine (Ach), increasing maximal values to 80.8% +/- 5.2% and 80.8% +/- 5.0% in low and high groups, respectively, compared with 60.7% +/- 1.4% in controls (P<0.01). This treatment effect was eliminated in the presence of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) blocker N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. Resveratrol did not affect relaxation to sodium nitroprusside or systolic blood pressure in SHRs. In contrast to the SHR results, chronic resveratrol in Sprague Dawley rats did not affect vasomotor function in aorta rings in response to Ach. Hydrogen peroxide was reduced in the SHR thoracic aorta by a high dosage of resveratrol (P<0.05), but it was not significantly altered in other tissues tested. Thoracic aorta immunoblots revealed no significant treatment effects in SHRs on eNOS, superoxide dismutases 1 and 2, gp91phox, or Hsp90. Thus, these data provide novel evidence of improved endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation in hypertensive, but not normotensive, animals as a result of chronic resveratrol consumption mimicking dosages resulting from moderate red wine consumption. This response was not dependent on increases in eNOS expression but was dependent on improved NO bioavailability.

Percutaneous valved stent implantation in the ascending aorta for the treatment of very high-risk aortic regurgitation: an animal study.

PubMed

Zong, Gang-Jun; Jiang, Hai-Bin; Bai, Yuan; Wu, Gang-Yong; Ye, Guang-Ming; Chen, Jing-Kai; Qin, Yong-Wen; Zhao, Xian-xian

2013-12-01

We investigated the effects of percutaneous valved stent implantation in the ascending aorta as an alternative treatment for aortic regurgitation in a canine model. A total of 16 healthy dogs weighing an average of 18.3 ± 2.1 kg were used for the establishment of animal models of chronic aortic regurgitation by percutaneous aortic valve perforation and balloon dilation. At 2 mo after successful model establishment, all experimental animals underwent valved stent implantation in the ascending aorta and then were followed up for 3 mo. Experimental models of chronic aortic regurgitation were successfully established in 10 dogs. Surviving dogs underwent successful valved stent implantation in the ascending aorta and were subsequently followed up for 3 mo. The level of instantaneous aortic regurgitation at 3-mo follow-up was significantly reduced compared with that before valved stent implantation (2.4 ± 0.9 versus 10.6 ± 2.1 mL/s, P < 0.05). The left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly increased (53.8 ± 4.2% versus 37.8 ± 3.7%, P < 0.05), and the left ventricular end-diastolic volume was also significantly reduced (30.3 ± 2.2 versus 40.1 ± 3.6 mL, P < 0.05). No paravalvular leak, stroke, atrioventricular block, or other complications occurred in dogs undergoing valved stent implantation. Percutaneous valved stent implantation in the ascending aorta is feasible, effective, and safe as an alternative treatment for very high-risk aortic regurgitation in a canine model. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Suppressed G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 activity protects female diabetic-mouse aorta against endothelial dysfunction.

PubMed

Taguchi, K; Matsumoto, T; Kamata, K; Kobayashi, T

2013-01-01

Pre-menopausal women have less cardiovascular disease and lower cardiovascular morbidity and mortality than men the same age. Previously, we noted in mice that G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) negatively regulates the Akt/eNOS pathway in male diabetic aortas and that endothelial function via the Akt/eNOS pathway is less affected in female diabetic aortas. The cellular mechanisms underlying these sex differences remain unclear. We aimed to investigate the ways in which GRK2 might modulate vascular functions in male and female diabetic mice (DM). Vascular functions were examined in aortic rings. GRK2, β-arrestin 2 and Akt/eNOS-signalling-pathway protein levels and activities were assayed by Western blotting. Phenylephrine-induced contraction was greater, while both clonidine-induced and insulin-induced relaxations were weaker (vs. male controls), in aortas from male type 2 DM, suggesting impairments of the Akt/eNOS pathway and α-adrenoceptor function. GRK2-inhibitor reversed only the impairment in Akt/eNOS-pathway-mediated relaxation in male DM. Increases in GRK2 activity, GRK2 expression in the membrane, plasma Ang II and systolic blood pressure were seen in male DM (vs. male controls) but not in female DM; these increases were attenuated by GRK2-inhibitor treatment. Repeatedly obtaining clonidine concentration-response curves led to reduced relaxation in male and in female DM aortas, indicating similar desensitization between female DM and male DM. This effect was reversed by GRK2-inhibitor in both sexes. GRK2 plays a key role in modulating the aortic vasodilator effect of clonidine by selectively affecting the Akt/eNOS pathway. This action of GRK2 is more powerful in male than in female DM. © 2012 The Authors Acta Physiologica © 2012 Scandinavian Physiological Society.

Vasoconstrictor role of cyclooxygenase-1-mediated prostacyclin synthesis in non-insulin-dependent diabetic mice induced by high-fat diet and streptozotocin.

PubMed

Zhu, Ningxia; Liu, Bin; Luo, Wenhong; Zhang, Yingzhan; Li, Hui; Li, Shasha; Zhou, Yingbi

2014-08-01

This study tested the hypothesis that in diabetic arteries, cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 mediates endothelial prostacyclin (PGI2) synthesis, which evokes vasoconstrictor activity under the pathological condition. Non-insulin-dependent diabetes was induced to C57BL/6 mice and those with COX-1 deficiency (COX-1(-/-) mice) using a high-fat diet in combination with streptozotocin injection. In vitro analyses were performed 3 mo after. Results showed that in diabetic aortas, the endothelial muscarinic receptor agonist ACh evoked an endothelium-dependent production of the PGI2 metabolite 6-keto-PGF1α, which was abolished in COX-1(-/-) mice. Meanwhile, COX-1 deficiency or COX-1 inhibition prevented vasoconstrictor activity in diabetic abdominal aortas, resulting in enhanced relaxation evoked by ACh. In a similar manner, COX-1 deficiency increased the relaxation evoked by ACh in nitric oxide synthase-inhibited diabetic renal arteries. Also, in diabetic abdominal aortas and/or renal arteries, both PGI2 and the COX substrate arachidonic acid evoked contractions similar to those of nondiabetic mice. However, the contraction to arachidonic acid, but not that to PGI2, was abolished in vessels from COX-1(-/-) mice. Moreover, we found that 3 mo after streptozotocin injection, systemic blood pressure increased in diabetic C57BL/6 mice but not in diabetic COX-1(-/-) mice. These results explicitly demonstrate that in the given arteries from non-insulin-dependent diabetic mice, COX-1 remains a major contributor to the endothelial PGI2 synthesis that evokes vasoconstrictor activity under the pathological condition. Also, our data suggest that COX-1 deficiency prevents or attenuates diabetic hypertension in mice, although this could be related to the loss of COX-1-mediated activities derived from both vascular and nonvascular tissues. Copyright © 2014 the American Physiological Society.

Genuine splenic artery aneurysm rupture treated by N‐butyl cyanoacrylate and metallic coils under resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta

PubMed Central

Hagiwara, Shuichi; Miyazaki, Masaya; Kaneko, Minoru; Murata, Masato; Nakajima, Jun; Ohyama, Yoshio; Tamura, Jun'ichi; Tsushima, Yoshito; Oshima, Kiyohiro

2016-01-01

Case A 66 year‐old woman who presented with sudden lower abdominal pain was transferred to our emergency room. Vital signs were stable on arrival at the hospital, but immediately became unstable. Systolic/diastolic blood pressure and heart rate were 66/33 mmHg and 70 b.p.m., respectively. Computed tomography scanning showed splenic artery aneurysm rupture and extravasation. The patient was treated non‐operatively and definitively by endovascular therapy comprising resuscitative endovascular occlusion of the aorta for hemodynamic control, N‐butyl cyanoacrylate, and metallic coils as an embolization material. Outcome On admission day 3, she was enrolled in another department and admission day 54, she was discharged. Conclusion Although resuscitative endovascular occlusion of the aorta and N‐butyl cyanoacrylate is known to be effective, the use of resuscitative endovascular occlusion of the aorta with transcatheter arterial embolization and N‐butyl cyanoacrylate for non‐traumatic bleeding has not previously been reported. By combining and adapting these devices, their applications in endovascular management may be increased. PMID:29123801

Comparative effects of endothelin and phorbol 12-13 dibutyrate in rat aorta

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Auguet, M.; Delaflotte, S.; Chabrier, P.E.

1989-01-01

The vasoconstrictive properties of endothelin (ET-1) and the protein kinase C activator, phorbol 12-13 dibutyrate (PDB) were comparatively investigated in isolated rat aorta. ET-1 and PDB induced a slowly developing sustained contraction in endothelium denuded aorta. Maximal contractions induced by ET-1 and PDB were unaffected by diltiazem. Substantial contraction to ET-1 and PDB remained in calcium-free medium. Contractions of ET-1 and PDB in calcium-free medium were unaffected by intracellular calcium depletion induced by phenylephrine. Following the response to ET-1 and PDB in a calcium-free medium, an additional sustained was observed after calcium was added to the bath. The protein kinasemore » C inhibitor, H7 was more potent in inhibiting contractions induced by phenylephrine and KCl than the ones elicited by ET-1 and PDB. The other protein kinase C inhibitors i.e. staurosporine and phloretin inhibited to a similar extent all the agonists tested. These results suggest that protein kinase C may play an important role in mediating the contraction to ET-1 in rat aorta.« less

The Short-Term Effect of Ketogenic Diet on Carotid Intima-Media Thickness and Elastic Properties of the Carotid Artery and the Aorta in Epileptic Children.

PubMed

Doksöz, Önder; Güzel, Orkide; Yılmaz, Ünsal; İşgüder, Rana; Çeleğen, Kübra; Meşe, Timur; Uysal, Utku

2015-10-01

The aim of this prospective study is to investigate the effect of a 6-month-long ketogenic diet on carotid intima-media thickness, carotid artery, and aortic vascular functions. Thirty-eight drug-resistant epileptic patients who were being treated with ketogenic diet were enrolled. Fasting total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and glucose concentrations were measured and echocardiography was performed in all patients before the beginning of ketogenic diet and at the sixth month of treatment. The body weight, height, body mass index, serum levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein increased significantly at month 6 when compared to baseline values (P < .05). Carotid intima-media thickness, elastic properties of the aorta, and carotid artery did not change at the sixth month of therapy compared to baseline values. A 6-month-long ketogenic diet has no effect on carotid intima-media thickness and elastic properties of the carotid artery and the aorta. © The Author(s) 2015.

Inositol uptake in rat aorta

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rapoport, R.M.; Van Gorp, C.; Chang, Ki-Churl

1990-01-01

{sup 3}H-inositol uptake into deendothelialized aorta was linear for at least 2 h and was composed of both a saturable, Na{sup +}-dependent, and a nonsaturable, Na{sup +}-independent component. The Na{sup +}-dependent component of inositol uptake had a K{sub m} of 50 {mu}M and a V{sub max} of 289 pmol/mg prot/h. Exposure to LiCl, ouabain, or Ca{sup 2+} - free Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate solution inhibited uptake. Metabolic poisoning with dinitrophenol, as well as incubation with phloretin, an inhibitor of carrier-mediated hexose transport, also inhibited uptake. Exposure to norepinephrine decreased inositol uptake, while phorbol myristate acetate was without effect. Isobutylmethylxanthine significantly increased inositolmore » uptake, while the increased uptake due to dibutyryl cyclic AMP and forskolin were not statistically significant. Sodium nitroprusside, and activator of guanylate cyclase, and 8-bromo cyclic GMP, were without effect on uptake, as was methylene blue, an inhibitor of guanylate cyclase. Inositol uptake into the aorta was increased when the endothelium was allowed to remain intact, although this effect was likely due to uptake in both the endothelial and smooth muscle cells.« less

Hypersensitivity of prediabetic JCR:LA-cp rats to fine airborne combustion particle-induced direct and noradrenergic-mediated vascular contraction.

PubMed

Proctor, Spencer D; Dreher, Kevin L; Kelly, Sandra E; Russell, James C

2006-04-01

Particulate matter with mean aerodynamic diameter < or =2.5 microm (PM(2.5)), from diesel exhaust, coal or residual oil burning, and from industrial plants, is a significant component of airborne pollution. Type 2 diabetes is associated with enhanced risk of adverse cardiovascular events following exposure to PM(2.5). Particle properties, sources, and pathophysiological mechanisms responsible are unknown. We studied effects of residual oil fly ash (ROFA) from a large U.S. powerplant on vascular function in a prediabetic, hyperinsulinemic model, the JCR:LA-cp rat. Residual oil fly ash leachate (ROFA-L) was studied using aortic rings from young-adult, obese, insulin-resistant rats and lean normal rats in vitro. Contractile response to phenylephrine and relaxant response to acetylcholine were determined in the presence and absence of L-NAME (N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester). In a separate series of studies, the direct contractile effects of ROFA-L on repeated exposure were determined. ROFA-L (12.5 microg ml(-1)) increased phenylephrine-mediated contraction in obese (p < 0.05), but not in lean rat aortae, with the effect being exacerbated by L-NAME, and it reduced acetylcholine-mediated relaxation of both obese and lean aortae (p < 0.0001). Initial exposure of aortae to ROFA-L caused a small contractile response (<0.05 g), which was markedly greater on second exposure in the obese (approximately 0.6 g, p < 0.0001) aortae but marginal in lean (approximately 0.1 g) aortae. Our data demonstrate that bioavailable constituents of oil combustion particles enhance noradrenergic-mediated vascular contraction, impair endothelium-mediated relaxation, and induce direct vasocontraction in prediabetic rats. These observations provide the first direct evidence of the causal properties of PM(2.5) and identify the pathophysiological role of the early prediabetic state in susceptibility to environmentally induced cardiovascular disease. These are important implications for public health and public policy.

Computational analysis of aortic hemodynamics during total and partial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and intra-aortic balloon pump support.

PubMed

Caruso, Maria Vittoria; Gramigna, Vera; Renzulli, Attilio; Fragomeni, Gionata

2016-01-01

The extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a temporary, but prolonged circulatory support for cardiopulmonary failure. Clinical evidence suggests that pulsed flow is healthier than non pulsatile perfusion. The aim of this study was to computationally evaluate the effects of total and partial ECMO assistance and pulsed flow on hemodynamics in a patient-specific aorta model. The pulsatility was obtained by means of the intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), and two different cases were investigated, considering a cardiac output (CO) of 5 L/min: Case A - total assistance - the whole flow delivered through the ECMO arterial cannula; Case B - partial assistance - flow delivered half through the cannula and half through the aorta. Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) analysis was carried out using the multiscale approach to couple the 3D aorta model with the lumped parameter model (resistance boundary condition). In case A pulsatility followed the balloon radius change, while in case B it was mostly influenced by the cardiac one. Furthermore, during total assistance, a blood stagnation occurred in the ascending aorta; in the case of partial assistance, the flow was orderly when the IABP was on and was chaotic when the balloon was off. Moreover, the mean arterial pressure (MAP) was higher in case B. The wall shear stress was worse in ascending aorta in case A. Partial support is hemodynamically advisable.

Mechanisms of vasodilation in the dorsal aorta of the elephant fish, Callorhinchus milii (Chimaeriformes: Holocephali).

PubMed

Jennings, Brett L; Bell, Justin D; Hyodo, Susumu; Toop, Tes; Donald, John A

2007-07-01

This study investigated vasodilator mechanisms in the dorsal aorta of the elephant fish, Callorhinchus milii, using anatomical and physiological approaches. Nitric oxide synthase could only be located in the perivascular nerve fibres and not the endothelium of the dorsal aorta, using NADPH histochemistry and immunohistochemistry. In vitro organ bath experiments demonstrated that a NO/soluble guanylyl cyclase (GC) system appeared to be absent in the vascular smooth muscle, since the NO donors SNP (10(-4) mol l(-1)) and SIN-1 (10(-5) mol l(-1)) were without effect. Nicotine (3 x 10(-4) mol l(-1)) mediated a vasodilation that was not affected by ODQ (10(-5) mol l(-1)), L-NNA (10(-4) mol l(-1)), indomethacin (10(-5) mol l(-1)), or removal of the endothelium. In contrast, the voltage-gated sodium channel inhibitor, tetrodotoxin (10(-5) mol l(-1)), significantly decreased the dilation induced by nicotine, suggesting that it contained a neural component. Pre-incubation of the dorsal aorta with the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist, CGRP(8-37) (10(-6) mol l(-1)) also caused a significant decrease in the nicotine-induced dilation. We propose that nicotine is mediating a neurally-derived vasodilation in the dorsal aorta that is independent of NO, prostaglandins and the endothelium, and partly mediated by CGRP.

Ruthenium Complex Improves the Endothelial Function in Aortic Rings From Hypertensive Rats

PubMed Central

Vatanabe, Izabela Pereira; Rodrigues, Carla Nascimento dos Santos; Buzinari, Tereza Cristina; de Moraes, Thiago Francisco; da Silva, Roberto Santana; Rodrigues, Gerson Jhonatan

2017-01-01

Background The endothelium is a monolayer of cells that extends on the vascular inner surface, responsible for the modulation of vascular tone. By means of the release of nitric oxide (NO), the endothelium has an important protective function against cardiovascular diseases. Objective Verify if cis- [Ru(bpy)2(NO2)(NO)](PF6)2 (BPY) improves endothelial function and the sensibility of conductance (aorta) and resistance (coronary) to vascular relaxation induced by BPY. Methods Normotensive (2K) and hypertensive (2K-1C) Wistar rats were used. For vascular reactivity study, thoracic aortas were isolated, rings with intact endothelium were incubated with: BPY(0.01 to10 µM) and concentration effect curves to acetylcholine were performed. In addition, cumulative concentration curves were performed to BPY (1.0 nM to 0.1 µM) in aortic and coronary rings, with intact and denuded endothelium. Results In aorta from 2K-1C animals, the treatment with BPY 0.1µM increased the potency of acetylcholine-induced relaxation and it was able to revert the endothelial dysfunction. The presence of the endothelium did not modify the effect of BPY in inducing the relaxation in aortas from 2K and 2K-1C rats. In coronary, the endothelium potentiated the vasodilator effect of BPY in vessels from 2K and 2K-1C rats. Conclusion Our results suggest that 0.1 µM of BPY is able to normalize the relaxation endothelium dependent in hypertensive rats, and the compound BPY induces relaxation in aortic from normotensive and hypertensive rats with the same potency. The endothelium potentiate the relaxation effect induced by BPY in coronary from normotensive and hypertensive rats, with lower effect on coronary from hypertensive rats. PMID:28678930

Adrenomedullin and adrenomedullin binding protein-1 attenuate vascular endothelial cell apoptosis in sepsis.

PubMed

Zhou, Mian; Simms, H Hank; Wang, Ping

2004-08-01

To determine whether vascular endothelial cell apoptosis occurs in the late stage of sepsis and, if so, whether administration of a potent vasodilatory peptide adrenomedullin and its newly reported specific binding protein (AM/AMBP-1) prevents sepsis-induced endothelial cell apoptosis. Polymicrobial sepsis is characterized by an early, hyperdynamic phase followed by a late, hypodynamic phase. Our recent studies have shown that administration of AM/AMBP-1 delays or even prevents the transition from the hyperdynamic phase to the hypodynamic phase of sepsis, attenuates tissue injury, and decreases sepsis-induced mortality. However, the mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects of AM/AMBP-1 in sepsis remain unknown. Polymicrobial sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture in adult male rats. Human AMBP-1 (40 microg/kg body weight) was infused intravenously at the beginning of sepsis for 20 minutes and synthetic AM (12 microg/kg body weight) was continuously administered for the entire study period using an Alzert micro-osmotic pump, beginning 3 hours prior to the induction of sepsis. The thoracic aorta and pulmonary tissues were harvested at 20 hours after cecal ligation and puncture (ie, the late stage of sepsis). Apoptosis was determined using TUNEL assay, M30 Cytodeath immunostaining, and electromicroscopy. In addition, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and pro-apoptotic Bax gene expression and protein levels were assessed by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. Vascular endothelial cells underwent apoptosis formation at 20 hours after cecal ligation and puncture as determined by three different methods. Moreover, partial detached endothelial cell in the aorta was observed. Bcl-2 mRNA and protein levels decreased significantly at 20 hours after the onset of sepsis while Bax was not altered. Administration of AM/AMBP-1 early after sepsis, however, significantly reduced the number of apoptotic endothelial cells. This was associated with significantly increased Bcl-2 protein levels and decreased Bax gene expression in the aortic and pulmonary tissues. The above results suggest that vascular endothelial cell apoptosis occurs in late sepsis and the anti-apoptotic effects of AM/AMBP-1 appear to be in part responsible for their beneficial effects observed under such conditions.

Why do we live for much less than 100 years? A fluid mechanics view and approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Messaris, Gerasimos A. T.; Hadjinicolaou, Maria; Karahalios, George T.

2017-08-01

Blood flow in arteries induces shear stresses on the arterial walls. The present work is motivated by the implications of low shear stress on the human arterial system and its effect on the duration of the life of a subject. The low and/or bidirectional wall shear stress stiffens the arterial wall and in synergy with the fluctuating tissue stress due to the fluctuating blood pressure activates the mechanism of aging. If the shear stress were not low and/or bidirectional and if it did not contribute to local endothelium dysfunctions, the tissue stress alone would take more than 100 yr to cause a failure on the human arterial system. Applying the s-n diagram (tissue stress against the number of cycles to failure) to determine the fatigue life of the aorta, for example, we find that in the absence of other pathogenic factors, for a tissue stress 1.2 times bigger than the tissue stress of a non-stiff aorta, the potential 100 yr of life are reduced to nearly 80 yr. Calculation of the rate of variation of the tissue stress of a subject with time may lead to a possible prognosis about the evolution of wall stiffness and its impact on the arterial aging of this subject. Further patient-specific in vivo mechanistic studies complemented by molecular imaging are needed to contribute to the formation of a data base, from which improved models describing the evolution of the arterial stiffness can be developed. Accordingly, the degree of stiffness of the aorta compared with existing data from a corresponding data base may provide with information about the degree of the fatigue of the aortic wall and its possible future behavior and lead to a patient-adapted medical treatment as a means of a would-be preventive medication.

Elemental distribution in ascending aortic after radiotherapy and chemotherapy by Low Energy X-ray Fluorescence spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mantuano, A.; Mota, C. L.; Pickler, A.; Sena, G.; Braz, D.; Salata, C.; de Almeida, C. E.; Costa, F. N.; Barroso, R. C.

2018-05-01

Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women. The treatment techniques for the BC include chemotherapy (CT) and/or radiotherapy (RT) and can modify elementary the cell matrix by calcificating tissues due to biological and morphological changes. Also, treatments for BC induce cardiotoxicity and it is important to understand the mechanisms involved in order to prevent this late effect in treated breast cancer patients. The high incidence of cardiovascular mortality in breast cancer patients is partially credited to increased intimal and medial calcifications of the aorta. The aim of this work is to investigate the distibution of low atomic number elements such as Magnesium (Mg), due to its importance for the cardiac metabolism; iron (Fe), since BC treatment may be associated with oxidative stress; and Sodium (Na), that is extremely related to the damage of endothelial cells. An optimal technique to observe these changes in aorta tissue is soft X-ray FLuorescence that can provide elemental maps of these important elements. The results performed by Low Energy X-ray Fluorescence LEXRF analyses showed that when the tissue is submitted to treatments with CT and/or RT, some normal structures become disorganized, and consequently the intensity of elemental compounds can be changed. All the experiments were carried out at the TwinMic beamline at Elettra Synchrotron facility using as animal model Wistar rats in order to evaluate the distribution of Na, Mg and Fe in aorta walls of Wistar rats, after BC treatment. Simultaneous acquisition of LEXRF and attenuation coefficient maps suggest that the combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy caused more damage to the aortic tissue as compared to radiation therapy alone. These findings add an in-depth understanding of elemental lack or excess in the tissue and contribute to locate these changes.

Efficacy of losartan vs. atenolol for the prevention of aortic dilation in Marfan syndrome: a randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Forteza, Alberto; Evangelista, Arturo; Sánchez, Violeta; Teixidó-Turà, Gisela; Sanz, Paz; Gutiérrez, Laura; Gracia, Teresa; Centeno, Jorge; Rodríguez-Palomares, José; Rufilanchas, Juan Jose; Cortina, José; Ferreira-González, Ignacio; García-Dorado, David

2016-03-21

To determine the efficacy of losartan vs. atenolol in aortic dilation progression in Marfan syndrome (MFS) patients. A phase IIIb, randomized, parallel, double-blind study was conducted in 140 MFS patients, age range: 5-60 years, with maximum aortic diameter <45 mm who received losartan (n = 70) or atenolol (n = 70). Doses were raised to a maximum of 1.4 mg/kg/day or 100 mg/day. The primary end-point was the change in aortic root and ascending aorta maximum diameter indexed by body surface area on magnetic resonance imaging after 36 months of treatment. No serious drug-related adverse effects were observed. Five patients presented aortic events during a follow-up (one in the losartan and four in the atenolol groups, P = 0.366). After 3 years of follow-up, aortic root diameter increased significantly in both groups: 1.1 mm (95% CI 0.6-1.6) in the losartan and 1.4 mm (95% CI 0.9-1.9) in the atenolol group, with aortic dilatation progression being similar in both groups: absolute difference between losartan and atenolol -0.3 mm (95% CI -1.1 to 0.4, P = 0.382) and indexed by BSA -0.5 mm/m2 (95% CI -1.2 to 0.1, P = 0.092). Similarly, no significant differences were found in indexed ascending aorta diameter changes between the losartan and atenolol groups: -0.3 mm/m2 (95% CI -0.8 to 0.3, P = 0.326). Among patients with MFS, the use of losartan compared with atenolol did not result in significant differences in the progression of aortic root and ascending aorta diameters over 3 years of follow-up. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2015. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Effects Of Endothelin-1 On Intracellular Tetrahydrobiopterin Levels In Vascular Tissue.

PubMed

Cerrato, Ruha; Crabtree, Mark; Antoniades, Charalambos; Kublickiene, Karolina; Schiffrin, Ernesto L; Channon, Keith M; Böhm, Felix

2018-03-23

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is the essential cofactor of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and intracellular levels of BH4 is regulated by oxidative stress. The aim of this paper was to describe the influence of exogenous endothelin-1 on intracellular BH4 and its oxidation products dihydrobiopterin (BH2) and biopterin (B) in a wide range of vascular tissue. Segments of internal mammary artery (IMA) and human saphenous vein (SV) from 41 patients undergoing elective surgery were incubated in ET-1 (0.1 μM). Aorta and lung from transgenic mice overexpressing ET-1 in the endothelium (ET-TG) were analysed with regards to intracellular biopterin levels. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were incubated in ET-1 (0.1 μM) and intracellular biopterin levels were analysed. From 6 healthy women undergoing caesarean section, subcutaneous fat was harvested and the resistance arteries in these biopsies were tested for ET-mediated endothelial dysfunction. In HUVEC, exogenous ET-1 (0.1 μM) did not significantly change intracellular BH4, 1.54 ± 1.7 vs 1.68 ± 1.8 pmol/mg protein; p = .8. In IMA and SV, exogenous ET-1(0.1 μM) did not change intracellular BH4 n = 10, p = .4. In aorta from wild type vs ET-TG mice there was no significant difference in intracellular BH4 between the groups: 1.3 ± 0.49 vs 1.23 ± 0.3 pmol/mg protein; p = .6. In resistance arteries (n = 6) BH4 together with DTE (an antioxidant) was not able to prevent ET-mediated endothelial dysfunction. ET-1 did not significantly alter intracellular tetrahydrobiopterin levels in IMA, SV, HUVEC or aorta from ET-TG mice. These findings are important for future research in ET-1 mediated superoxide production and endothelial dysfunction.

High blood pressure - infants

MedlinePlus

... birth (congenital). Common examples include: Coarctation of the aorta (narrowing of the large blood vessel of the heart called the aorta) Patent ductus arteriosus (blood vessel between the aorta ...

Concomitant replacement of the dilated ascending aorta during aortic valve replacement; does it increase the perioperative morbidity and mortality risks?

PubMed

Lim, Ju Y; Jung, Sung H; Kim, Joon B; Kim, Dong K; Chung, Cheol H; Song, Hyun; Lee, Jae W; Choo, Suk J

2013-05-01

Concerns of increased surgical risks with ascending aortic replacement have led surgeons to manage post-stenotic aortic dilatation more conservatively during aortic valve replacement (AVR). The present study aimed to assess the prognostic implications and surgical risks of replacing the dilated aorta during AVR. Between January 1999 and March 2010, 134 patients who received surgery for aortic stenosis and post-stenotic dilatation (aorta size ≥40 mm) were included in the present study. AVR was performed in 92 patients (AVR group) while aortic valve and ascending aorta replacement (AVR + aorta group) were performed in 42 patients. Overall survival was compared between the two groups using Cox proportional hazard model after adjustment with inverse-probability-of-treatment weighting. The mean follow-up duration was 3.5 ± 3 years. There were no significant differences in the operative mortality and morbidity between the two groups. The late cardiac deaths were also not significantly different between the two groups (p = 1.00). In the AVR group, the ascending aortic expansion rate which was 0.18 mm/year over a mean follow-up duration of 2.3 ± 2.2 years by echocardiography showed a positive correlation with time (r = 0.3, p = 0.08). A relatively greater aortic expansion rate was identified as a risk factor for late mortality (p = 0.015, HR 1.08 (CI: 1.02 to 1.15). Concomitant replacement of the dilated ascending aorta during AVR did not increase the immediate postoperative morbidity or mortality risks and tended to exert a long-term beneficial effect on the risk of late mortality. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Proteome profiling in the aorta and kidney of type 1 diabetic rats

PubMed Central

Zhu, Rui; Jaffa, Miran A.; Zhao, Jingfu; Mirzaei, Parvin; Ahmed, Adnan; Kobeissy, Firas; Ziyadeh, Fuad N.; Mechref, Yehia

2017-01-01

Diabetes is associated with a number of metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors that contribute to a high rate of microvascular and macrovascular complications. The risk factors and mechanisms that contribute to the development of micro- and macrovascular disease in diabetes are not fully explained. In this study, we employed mass spectrometric analysis using tandem LC-MS/MS to generate a proteomic profile of protein abundance and post-translational modifications (PTM) in the aorta and kidney of diabetic rats. In addition, systems biology analyses were employed to identify key protein markers that can provide insights into molecular pathways and processes that are differentially regulated in the aorta and kidney of type 1 diabetic rats. Our results indicated that 188 (111 downregulated and 77 upregulated) proteins were significantly identified in the aorta of diabetic rats compared to normal controls. A total of 223 (109 downregulated and 114 upregulated) proteins were significantly identified in the kidney of diabetic rats compared to normal controls. When the protein profiles from the kidney and aorta of diabetic and control rats were analyzed by principal component analysis, a distinct separation of the groups was observed. In addition, diabetes resulted in a significant increase in PTM (oxidation, phosphorylation, and acetylation) of proteins in the kidney and aorta and this effect was partially reversed by insulin treatment. Ingenuity pathway analysis performed on the list of differentially expressed proteins depicted mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative phosphorylation and acute phase response signaling to be among the altered canonical pathways by diabetes in both tissues. The findings of the present study provide a global proteomics view of markers that highlight the mechanisms and putative processes that modulate renal and vascular injury in diabetes. PMID:29121074

Absence of Activation-induced Cytidine Deaminase, a Regulator of Class Switch Recombination and Hypermutation in B Cells, Suppresses Aorta Allograft Vasculopathy in Mice.

PubMed

Nakanishi, Tomonori; Xu, Xiaoyan; Wynn, Carmen; Yamada, Toshiko; Pan, Fan; Erickson, Laurie; Teo, Haeman; Nakagawa, Terry; Masunaga, Taro; Abe, Jumpei; Akamatsu, Masahiko; Tamura, Kouichi; Jiang, Hongsi

2015-08-01

Antibody-mediated rejection is caused in part by increasing circulation/production of donor-specific antibody (DSA). Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) is a key regulator of class switch recombination and somatic hypermutation of immunoglobulin in B cells, yet its role in antibody-mediated transplant rejection remains unclear. We show here that AID deficiency in mice enables suppression of allograft vasculopathy (AV) after aorta transplantation, a DSA-mediated process. Splenocytes from C57BL/6 J (B6) AID(−/−) mice were used for determining in vitro proliferation responses, alloreactivity, cell surface marker expression, and antibody production. BALB/c mouse aortas were transplanted into B6 AID(−/−) mice with or without FK506 treatment. Blood and aorta grafts were harvested on day 30 after transplantation and were subjected to DSA, histological, and immunohistological analyses. The AID(−/−) splenocytes were comparable to wild type splenocytes in proliferation responses, alloreactivity, and expression of cell surface markers in vitro. However, they completely failed to produce immunoglobulin G, although they were not impaired in immunoglobulin M production relative to controls. Furthermore, BALB/c aorta grafts from B6 AID(−/−) recipient mice on day 30 after transplantation showed reduced signs of AV compared to the grafts from B6 wild type recipient mice which had severe vascular intimal hyperplasia, interstitial fibrosis, and inflammation. Treatment with FK506 produced a synergistic effect in the grafts from AID(−/−) recipients with further reduction of intimal hyperplasia and fibrosis scores. The AID deficiency inhibits DSA-mediated AV after aorta transplantation in mice. We propose that AID could be a novel molecular target for controlling antibody-mediated rejection in organ transplantation.

Proteome profiling in the aorta and kidney of type 1 diabetic rats.

PubMed

Al Hariri, Moustafa; Elmedawar, Mohamad; Zhu, Rui; Jaffa, Miran A; Zhao, Jingfu; Mirzaei, Parvin; Ahmed, Adnan; Kobeissy, Firas; Ziyadeh, Fuad N; Mechref, Yehia; Jaffa, Ayad A

2017-01-01

Diabetes is associated with a number of metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors that contribute to a high rate of microvascular and macrovascular complications. The risk factors and mechanisms that contribute to the development of micro- and macrovascular disease in diabetes are not fully explained. In this study, we employed mass spectrometric analysis using tandem LC-MS/MS to generate a proteomic profile of protein abundance and post-translational modifications (PTM) in the aorta and kidney of diabetic rats. In addition, systems biology analyses were employed to identify key protein markers that can provide insights into molecular pathways and processes that are differentially regulated in the aorta and kidney of type 1 diabetic rats. Our results indicated that 188 (111 downregulated and 77 upregulated) proteins were significantly identified in the aorta of diabetic rats compared to normal controls. A total of 223 (109 downregulated and 114 upregulated) proteins were significantly identified in the kidney of diabetic rats compared to normal controls. When the protein profiles from the kidney and aorta of diabetic and control rats were analyzed by principal component analysis, a distinct separation of the groups was observed. In addition, diabetes resulted in a significant increase in PTM (oxidation, phosphorylation, and acetylation) of proteins in the kidney and aorta and this effect was partially reversed by insulin treatment. Ingenuity pathway analysis performed on the list of differentially expressed proteins depicted mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative phosphorylation and acute phase response signaling to be among the altered canonical pathways by diabetes in both tissues. The findings of the present study provide a global proteomics view of markers that highlight the mechanisms and putative processes that modulate renal and vascular injury in diabetes.

Hybrid Aorta Constructs via In Situ Crosslinking of Poly(glycerol-sebacate) Elastomer Within a Decellularized Matrix.

PubMed

Guler, Selcan; Hosseinian, Pezhman; Aydin, Halil Murat

2017-01-01

Decellularization of tissues and organs has high potential to obtain unique conformation and composition as native tissue structure but may result in weakened tissue mechanical strength. In this study, poly(glycerol-sebacate) (PGS) elastomers were combined with decellularized aorta fragments to investigate the changes in mechanical properties. PGS prepolymer was synthesized via microwave irradiation and then in situ crosslinked within the decellularized aorta extracellular matrix (ECM). Tensile strength (σ) values were found comparable as 0.44 ± 0.10 MPa and 0.57 ± 0.18 MPa for native and hybrid aorta samples, respectively, while elongation at break (ɛ) values were 261% ± 17%, 7.5% ± 0.57%, and 22.18% ± 2.48% for wet control (native), decellularized dried aortae, and hybrid matrices, showing elastic contribution. Young's modulus data indicate that there was a threefold decrease in stiffness compared to decellularized samples once PGS is introduced into the ECM structure. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of hybrid grafts revealed that the construct preserves porosity in medial layer of the vessel. Biocompatibility analyses showed no cytotoxic effects on human abdominal aorta smooth muscle cells. Cell studies showed 98% activity in hybrid graft extracts. As a control, collagen coating of the hybrid grafts was performed in the recellularization stage. SEM analysis of recellularized hybrid grafts revealed that cells were attached to the surface of the hybrid graft and proliferated during the 14 days of culture in both groups. This study shows that introducing an elastomer into the native ECM structure following decellularization process can be a useful approach for the preparation of mechanically enhanced composites for soft tissues.

Paraplegia after myocardial revascularization. Case report.

PubMed

Nigro Neto, Caetano; Iza, Milton Patricio Chango; Tardelli, Maria Angela

2010-01-01

Developments in anesthesiology have improved safety indices. Several techniques and agents are used to control the hemodynamic response and minimize adverse effects triggered by surgical stimuli in patients undergoing cardiac procedures. This is a 70 years old male patient, 1.74 m, 75 kg, ASA III, and NYHA II. The patient had controlled dyslipedemia, type II diabetes mellitus, and hypertension; history of smoking, peripheral vascular disease, and myocardial infarction 20 years ago. The patient underwent revascularization with the left internal mammary artery and saphenous grafts with extracorporeal circulation with intermittent clamping of the aorta. During the first 24 hours in the ICU, the patient developed hemodynamic instability, sudden hypotension, and atrial fibrillation. Twenty-six hours after the end of the surgery, the patient was awake, hemodynamically stable, and with good respiratory dynamics, being extubated. The patient was talkative and oriented, but immobile and negative reflexes in the lower limbs. Neurological evaluation showed: cranial nerves without changes, no complaints of pain below the hips, preserved superficial and deep sensitivity, adequate distal perfusion without edema, and flaccid paraplegia below T8. The echocardiogram did not show any changes. CT scan of the lumbosacral spine was negative for compressive mass in the epidural space or adjacent to it. Anterior spinal artery syndrome should be considered in procedures with manipulation of the aorta. Prevention, especially in patients at risk, is necessary. Computed tomography, for the differential diagnosis, and MRI, to localize the lesion, are important.

Selection of Reference Genes for Quantitative Real Time PCR (qPCR) Assays in Tissue from Human Ascending Aorta

PubMed Central

Rueda-Martínez, Carmen; Lamas, Oscar; Mataró, María José; Robledo-Carmona, Juan; Sánchez-Espín, Gemma; Jiménez-Navarro, Manuel; Such-Martínez, Miguel; Fernández, Borja

2014-01-01

Dilatation of the ascending aorta (AAD) is a prevalent aortopathy that occurs frequently associated with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), the most common human congenital cardiac malformation. The molecular mechanisms leading to AAD associated with BAV are still poorly understood. The search for differentially expressed genes in diseased tissue by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) is an invaluable tool to fill this gap. However, studies dedicated to identify reference genes necessary for normalization of mRNA expression in aortic tissue are scarce. In this report, we evaluate the qPCR expression of six candidate reference genes in tissue from the ascending aorta of 52 patients with a variety of clinical and demographic characteristics, normal and dilated aortas, and different morphologies of the aortic valve (normal aorta and normal valve n = 30; dilated aorta and normal valve n = 10; normal aorta and BAV n = 4; dilated aorta and BAV n = 8). The expression stability of the candidate reference genes was determined with three statistical algorithms, GeNorm, NormFinder and Bestkeeper. The expression analyses showed that the most stable genes for the three algorithms employed were CDKN1β, POLR2A and CASC3, independently of the structure of the aorta and the valve morphology. In conclusion, we propose the use of these three genes as reference genes for mRNA expression analysis in human ascending aorta. However, we suggest searching for specific reference genes when conducting qPCR experiments with new cohort of samples. PMID:24841551

Low Density Lipoprotein and Non-Newtonian Oscillating Flow Biomechanical Parameters for Normal Human Aorta.

PubMed

Soulis, Johannes V; Fytanidis, Dimitrios K; Lampri, Olga P; Giannoglou, George D

2016-04-01

The temporal variation of the hemodynamic mechanical parameters during cardiac pulse wave is considered as an important atherogenic factor. Applying non-Newtonian blood molecular viscosity simulation is crucial for hemodynamic analysis. Understanding low density lipoprotein (LDL) distribution in relation to flow parameters will possibly spot the prone to atherosclerosis aorta regions. The biomechanical parameters tested were averaged wall shear stress (AWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI) and relative residence time (RRT) in relation to the LDL concentration. Four non-Newtonian molecular viscosity models and the Newtonian one were tested for the normal human aorta under oscillating flow. The analysis was performed via computational fluid dynamic. Tested viscosity blood flow models for the biomechanical parameters yield a consistent aorta pattern. High OSI and low AWSS develop at the concave aorta regions. This is most noticeable in downstream flow region of the left subclavian artery and at concave ascending aorta. Concave aorta regions exhibit high RRT and elevated LDL. For the concave aorta site, the peak LDL value is 35.0% higher than its entrance value. For the convex site, it is 18.0%. High LDL endothelium regions located at the aorta concave site are well predicted with high RRT. We are in favor of using the non-Newtonian power law model for analysis. It satisfactorily approximates the molecular viscosity, WSS, OSI, RRT and LDL distribution. Concave regions are mostly prone to atherosclerosis. The flow biomechanical factor RRT is a relatively useful tool for identifying the localization of the atheromatic plaques of the normal human aorta.

Research Resource: Aorta- and Liver-Specific ERα-Binding Patterns and Gene Regulation by Estrogen

PubMed Central

Gordon, Francesca K.; Vallaster, Caroline S.; Westerling, Thomas; Iyer, Lakshmanan K.; Brown, Myles

2014-01-01

Estrogen has vascular protective effects in premenopausal women and in women younger than 60 years who are receiving hormone replacement therapy. However, estrogen also increases the risks of breast and uterine cancers and of venous thromboses linked to up-regulation of coagulation factors in the liver. In mouse models, the vasculoprotective effects of estrogen are mediated by the estrogen receptor α (ERα) transcription factor. Here, through next-generation sequencing approaches, we show that almost all of the genes regulated by 17β-estradiol (E2) differ between mouse aorta and mouse liver, ex vivo, and that this difference is associated with a distinct genomewide distribution of ERα on chromatin. Bioinformatic analysis of E2-regulated promoters and ERα binding site sequences identify several transcription factors that may determine the tissue specificity of ERα binding and E2-regulated genes, including the enrichment of NF-κB, AML1, and AP1 sites in the promoters of E2 down-regulated inflammatory genes in aorta but not liver. The possible vascular-specific functions of these factors suggest ways in which the protective effects of estrogen could be promoted in the vasculature without incurring negative effects in other tissues. PMID:24992180

Heartbeat

MedlinePlus

... The last of the great vessels is the aorta, the body's largest artery, which transports oxygen-rich ... through the aortic semilunar valves and into the aorta. From here, the aorta and its branches carry ...

Glossary

MedlinePlus

... Donors Corporate Sponsors Donor Privacy Policy Glossary Abdominal aorta Portion of the aorta within the abdominal cavity, ... Any substance, which inhibits clotting of the blood. Aorta Largest artery in the body originating at the ...

Rat aorta as a pharmacological tool for in vitro and in vivo studies.

PubMed

Rameshrad, Maryam; Babaei, Hossein; Azarmi, Yadollah; Fouladi, Daniel Fadaei

2016-01-15

Rat aorta assay provides a low cost and rapid platform, especially for preclinical in vivo models. The signaling pathways of the analog on the vessels could be evaluated separately on the endothelium or smooth muscle cells by rings of the rat aorta in vitro. The rat aorta is used for angiogenesis modeling to integrate the benefits of the both in vivo and in vitro models. These explain the importance and usage of rat aorta in researches. Furthermore, about 4503 articles have been published with the key word "rat aorta" in title or abstract from 1955 until the end of 2013 in Medline. In this review, these articles were organized into two main categories: in vivo and in vitro studies. The in vitro section focused on the rat aorta model, as a tool for evaluate the mechanism of vasodilation, vasoconstriction and angiogenesis. In the in vivo section, the most important usage of this tissue was evaluated. Also, the vasotonic signaling pathways in the vessel are explained briefly and some rat aorta applications in vitro and in vivo have been discussed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Coarctation of the Aorta

MedlinePlus

... aorta may include: Narrowing of the aortic valve (aortic stenosis) High blood pressure Stroke Enlargement in a section of the wall of the aorta (aneurysm) Aortic rupture or tear (dissection) Premature coronary ...

Influence of flow and pressure on wave propagation in the canine aorta.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Histand, M. B.; Anliker, M.

1973-01-01

Data on wave speed acquired from 20 anesthetized dogs showed that the thoracic aorta was essentially nondispersive for small artificially generated pressure waves traveling in the downstream or the upstream direction and having frequencies between 40 and 120 Hz. The amplitude of these waves decayed exponentially with the distance traveled. Theoretical studies are cited which have shown that changes in wave speed due to variations in pressure and flow produce marked nonlinear effects in hemodynamics.

Effect of cholesterol lowering on stiffness of aortic and femoral arterial walls in rabbits on a high fat diet.

PubMed

Xue, Li; Xu, Wan-Hai; Xu, Jin-Zhi; Zhang, Tong; Bi, Hong-Yuan; Shen, Bao-Zhong

2009-06-20

Researches in arterial elasticity have increased over the past few years. We investigated the effects of simvastatin on vascular stiffness in fat fed rabbits by ultrasonography. Thirty rabbits were assigned randomly to 3 groups: normal control group (A), the cholesterol group (B), simvastatin group (C: high fat diet for 4 weeks and high fat diet + simvastatin for further 4 weeks). Stiffness coefficient, pressure strain elastic modulus and velocity of pulse waves in abdominal aorta and femoral artery were measured by ultrasonographic echo tracking at the end of the 4th and the 8th weeks. At the end of the 4th week, stiffness coefficient, pressure strain elastic modulus and pulse wave velocity of femoral artery were significantly increased in group B compared with those in group A. Similarly, at the end of the 8th week, the same parameters of abdominal aorta were significantly increased in group B compared with those in group A. In contrast, stiffness coefficient, pressure strain elastic modulus and pulse wave velocity of femoral artery were significantly decreased in group C compared with those in group B, however, there was no significant difference in parameters of abdominal aorta between groups B and C. Short term administration of simvastatin can improve the elasticity of femoral artery but not abdominal aorta.

Characterisation of the vasodilation effects of DHA and EPA, n-3 PUFAs (fish oils), in rat aorta and mesenteric resistance arteries.

PubMed

Limbu, Roshan; Cottrell, Graeme S; McNeish, Alister J

2018-01-01

Increasing evidence suggests that the omega-3 polyunsaturated acids (n-3 PUFA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are beneficial to cardiovascular health, promoting relaxation of vascular smooth muscle cells and vasodilation. Numerous studies have attempted to study these responses, but to date there has not been a systematic characterisation of both DHA and EPA mediated vasodilation in conduit and resistance arteries. Therefore, we aimed to fully characterise the n-3 PUFA-induced vasodilation pathways in rat aorta and mesenteric artery. Wire myography was used to measure the vasomotor responses of freshly dissected rat mesenteric artery and aorta. Arteries were pre-constricted with U46619 and cumulative concentrations of either DHA or EPA (10 nM-30 μM) were added. The mechanisms by which n-3 PUFA relaxed arteries were investigated using inhibitors of vasodilator pathways, which include: nitric oxide synthase (NOS; L-NAME), cycloxygenase (COX; indomethacin), cytochrome P450 epoxygenase (CYP450; clotrimazole); and calcium-activated potassium channels (KCa), SKCa (apamin), IKCa (TRAM-34) and BKCa (paxilline). Both DHA- and EPA-induced relaxations were partially inhibited following endothelium removal in rat mesenteric arteries. Similarly, in aorta EPA-induced relaxation was partially suppressed due to endothelium removal. CYP450 also contributed to EPA-induced relaxation in mesenteric artery. Inhibition of IKCa partially attenuated DHA-induced relaxation in aorta and mesenteric artery along with EPA-induced relaxation in mesenteric artery. Furthermore, this inhibition of DHA- and EPA-induced relaxation was increased following the additional blockade of BKCa in these arteries. This study provides evidence of heterogeneity in the vasodilation mechanisms of DHA and EPA in different vascular beds. Our data also demonstrates that endothelium removal has little effect on relaxations produced by either PUFA. We demonstrate IKCa and BKCa are involved in DHA-induced relaxation in rat aorta and mesenteric artery; and EPA-induced relaxation in rat mesenteric artery only. CYP450 derived metabolites of EPA may also be involved in BKCa dependent relaxation. To our knowledge this is the first study indicating the involvement of IKCa in n-3 PUFA mediated relaxation.

Characterisation of the vasodilation effects of DHA and EPA, n-3 PUFAs (fish oils), in rat aorta and mesenteric resistance arteries

PubMed Central

Limbu, Roshan; Cottrell, Graeme S.

2018-01-01

Background and purpose Increasing evidence suggests that the omega-3 polyunsaturated acids (n-3 PUFA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are beneficial to cardiovascular health, promoting relaxation of vascular smooth muscle cells and vasodilation. Numerous studies have attempted to study these responses, but to date there has not been a systematic characterisation of both DHA and EPA mediated vasodilation in conduit and resistance arteries. Therefore, we aimed to fully characterise the n-3 PUFA-induced vasodilation pathways in rat aorta and mesenteric artery. Methods Wire myography was used to measure the vasomotor responses of freshly dissected rat mesenteric artery and aorta. Arteries were pre-constricted with U46619 and cumulative concentrations of either DHA or EPA (10 nM-30 μM) were added. The mechanisms by which n-3 PUFA relaxed arteries were investigated using inhibitors of vasodilator pathways, which include: nitric oxide synthase (NOS; L-NAME), cycloxygenase (COX; indomethacin), cytochrome P450 epoxygenase (CYP450; clotrimazole); and calcium-activated potassium channels (KCa), SKCa (apamin), IKCa (TRAM-34) and BKCa (paxilline). Results Both DHA- and EPA-induced relaxations were partially inhibited following endothelium removal in rat mesenteric arteries. Similarly, in aorta EPA-induced relaxation was partially suppressed due to endothelium removal. CYP450 also contributed to EPA-induced relaxation in mesenteric artery. Inhibition of IKCa partially attenuated DHA-induced relaxation in aorta and mesenteric artery along with EPA-induced relaxation in mesenteric artery. Furthermore, this inhibition of DHA- and EPA-induced relaxation was increased following the additional blockade of BKCa in these arteries. Conclusions This study provides evidence of heterogeneity in the vasodilation mechanisms of DHA and EPA in different vascular beds. Our data also demonstrates that endothelium removal has little effect on relaxations produced by either PUFA. We demonstrate IKCa and BKCa are involved in DHA-induced relaxation in rat aorta and mesenteric artery; and EPA-induced relaxation in rat mesenteric artery only. CYP450 derived metabolites of EPA may also be involved in BKCa dependent relaxation. To our knowledge this is the first study indicating the involvement of IKCa in n-3 PUFA mediated relaxation. PMID:29394279

[Anesthesia for total and descending aorta replacement and aortic valve replacement for post-repair aneurysm of coarctation of aorta and aortic stenosis].

PubMed

Furuichi, Yuko; Shimizu, Jun; Sakamoto, Atsuhiro

2012-04-01

We experienced anesthesia for total arch and descending aorta replacement and aortic valve replacement for post-repair aneurysm of coarctation of aorta and aortic stenosis. Because there was possibility that post coarctectomy syndrome would occur after repair of coarctation of aorta, administration of depressor that acts on renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and careful observation were needed postoperatively. In consideration of the development of collateral vessels, preoperative imaging evaluation was added and operative method in cardiopulmonary bypass was adjusted. Careful preoperative evaluation is very important in cardiac anesthesia.

Isolated Anomalous Origin of Left Pulmonary Artery From the Descending Aorta: An Embryologic Ambiguity.

PubMed

Gnanappa, Ganesh Kumar; Laohachai, Karina; Orr, Yishay; Ayer, Julian

2016-11-01

Anomalous origin of a branch pulmonary artery from the aorta is a rare malformation, accounting for 0.12% of all congenital heart defects. Anomalous origin of the left pulmonary artery from the aorta (ALPA) constitutes a small proportion of these cases. ALPA has been reported to arise from the ascending aorta with various embryologic postulates. We report a case of isolated ALPA arising from the descending aorta in association with a patent ductus arteriosus, to emphasize its embryologic ambiguity. Copyright © 2016 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Thrombus formation in the interrupted segment of the aorta.

PubMed

Karavelioğlu, Yusuf; Kalçık, Macit; Yetim, Mucahit; Doğan, Tolga; Gölbaşı, Zehra

2017-06-01

Interrupted aorta is a very rare heart defect in which there is a gap between the ascending and the descending thoracic aorta. It is usually associated with other cardiac anomalies, including ventricular septal defect, ductus arteriosus, and truncus arteriosus. Severe cases present with serious complications such as hypertension, heart failure, or intracranial hemorrhage. Neurological complications are very rare form of presentation and commonly associated with intracranial aneurysms. We have reported a case of interrupted aorta who presented with transient ischemic attack due to thrombus formation in the interrupted segment of the aorta. © 2017, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Penetrating injury of ascending aorta with arrow in situ.

PubMed

Lakhotia, Siddharth; Prakash, Shashi; Singh, Dinesh Kumar; Kumar, Ashok; Panigrahi, Debasish

2012-04-01

Penetrating injuries of the aorta are rare and highly lethal; very few patients are able to reach the hospital alive. We report a case of penetrating injury into the ascending aorta with the arrow still in situ, shot by a bow in a tribal region of India. The wound of entry into the aorta was sealed by the arrow itself. The patient came to us walking and supporting the arrow with his left hand. He was operated on, and the arrow was successfully removed from the aorta. Copyright © 2012 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Aortic valve stenosis and aortic diameters determine the extent of increased wall shear stress in bicuspid aortic valve disease.

PubMed

Farag, Emile S; van Ooij, Pim; Planken, R Nils; Dukker, Kayleigh C P; de Heer, Frederiek; Bouma, Berto J; Robbers-Visser, Danielle; Groenink, Maarten; Nederveen, Aart J; de Mol, Bas A J M; Kluin, Jolanda; Boekholdt, S Matthijs

2018-02-16

Use of 4-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging (4D-flow MRI) derived wall shear stress (WSS) heat maps enables identification of regions in the ascending aorta with increased WSS. These regions are subject to dysregulation of the extracellular matrix and elastic fiber degeneration, which is associated with aortic dilatation and dissection. To evaluate the effect of the presence of aortic valve stenosis and the aortic diameter on the peak WSS and surface area of increased WSS in the ascending aorta. Prospective. In all, 48 bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients (38.1 ± 12.4 years) and 25 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals. Time-resolved 3D phase contrast MRI with three-directional velocity encoding at 3.0T. Peak systolic velocity, WSS, and aortic diameters were assessed in the ascending aorta and 3D heat maps were used to identify regions with elevated WSS. Comparisons between groups were performed by t-tests. Correlations were investigated by univariate and multivariate regression analysis. Elevated WSS was present in 15 ± 11% (range; 1-35%) of the surface area of the ascending aorta of BAV patients with aortic valve stenosis (AS) (n = 10) and in 6 ± 8% (range; 0-31%) of the ascending aorta of BAV patients without AS (P = 0.005). The mid-ascending aortic diameter negatively correlated with the peak ascending aortic WSS (R = -0.413, P = 0.004) and the surface area of elevated WSS (R = -0.419, P = 0.003). Multivariate linear regression analysis yielded that the height of peak WSS and the amount of elevated WSS depended individually on the presence of aortic valve stenosis and the diameter of the ascending aorta. The extent of increased WSS in the ascending aorta of BAV patients depends on the presence of aortic valve stenosis and aortic dilatation and is most pronounced in the presence of AS and a nondilated ascending aorta. 2 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018. © 2018 The Authors Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Automated quantitative 3D analysis of aorta size, morphology, and mural calcification distributions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kurugol, Sila, E-mail: sila.kurugol@childrens.harvard.edu; Come, Carolyn E.; Diaz, Alejandro A.

Purpose: The purpose of this work is to develop a fully automated pipeline to compute aorta morphology and calcification measures in large cohorts of CT scans that can be used to investigate the potential of these measures as imaging biomarkers of cardiovascular disease. Methods: The first step of the automated pipeline is aorta segmentation. The algorithm the authors propose first detects an initial aorta boundary by exploiting cross-sectional circularity of aorta in axial slices and aortic arch in reformatted oblique slices. This boundary is then refined by a 3D level-set segmentation that evolves the boundary to the location of nearbymore » edges. The authors then detect the aortic calcifications with thresholding and filter out the false positive regions due to nearby high intensity structures based on their anatomical location. The authors extract the centerline and oblique cross sections of the segmented aortas and compute the aorta morphology and calcification measures of the first 2500 subjects from COPDGene study. These measures include volume and number of calcified plaques and measures of vessel morphology such as average cross-sectional area, tortuosity, and arch width. Results: The authors computed the agreement between the algorithm and expert segmentations on 45 CT scans and obtained a closest point mean error of 0.62 ± 0.09 mm and a Dice coefficient of 0.92 ± 0.01. The calcification detection algorithm resulted in an improved true positive detection rate of 0.96 compared to previous work. The measurements of aorta size agreed with the measurements reported in previous work. The initial results showed associations of aorta morphology with calcification and with aging. These results may indicate aorta stiffening and unwrapping with calcification and aging. Conclusions: The authors have developed an objective tool to assess aorta morphology and aortic calcium plaques on CT scans that may be used to provide information about the presence of cardiovascular disease and its clinical impact in smokers.« less

Automated quantitative 3D analysis of aorta size, morphology, and mural calcification distributions.

PubMed

Kurugol, Sila; Come, Carolyn E; Diaz, Alejandro A; Ross, James C; Kinney, Greg L; Black-Shinn, Jennifer L; Hokanson, John E; Budoff, Matthew J; Washko, George R; San Jose Estepar, Raul

2015-09-01

The purpose of this work is to develop a fully automated pipeline to compute aorta morphology and calcification measures in large cohorts of CT scans that can be used to investigate the potential of these measures as imaging biomarkers of cardiovascular disease. The first step of the automated pipeline is aorta segmentation. The algorithm the authors propose first detects an initial aorta boundary by exploiting cross-sectional circularity of aorta in axial slices and aortic arch in reformatted oblique slices. This boundary is then refined by a 3D level-set segmentation that evolves the boundary to the location of nearby edges. The authors then detect the aortic calcifications with thresholding and filter out the false positive regions due to nearby high intensity structures based on their anatomical location. The authors extract the centerline and oblique cross sections of the segmented aortas and compute the aorta morphology and calcification measures of the first 2500 subjects from COPDGene study. These measures include volume and number of calcified plaques and measures of vessel morphology such as average cross-sectional area, tortuosity, and arch width. The authors computed the agreement between the algorithm and expert segmentations on 45 CT scans and obtained a closest point mean error of 0.62 ± 0.09 mm and a Dice coefficient of 0.92 ± 0.01. The calcification detection algorithm resulted in an improved true positive detection rate of 0.96 compared to previous work. The measurements of aorta size agreed with the measurements reported in previous work. The initial results showed associations of aorta morphology with calcification and with aging. These results may indicate aorta stiffening and unwrapping with calcification and aging. The authors have developed an objective tool to assess aorta morphology and aortic calcium plaques on CT scans that may be used to provide information about the presence of cardiovascular disease and its clinical impact in smokers.

Automated quantitative 3D analysis of aorta size, morphology, and mural calcification distributions

PubMed Central

Kurugol, Sila; Come, Carolyn E.; Diaz, Alejandro A.; Ross, James C.; Kinney, Greg L.; Black-Shinn, Jennifer L.; Hokanson, John E.; Budoff, Matthew J.; Washko, George R.; San Jose Estepar, Raul

2015-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this work is to develop a fully automated pipeline to compute aorta morphology and calcification measures in large cohorts of CT scans that can be used to investigate the potential of these measures as imaging biomarkers of cardiovascular disease. Methods: The first step of the automated pipeline is aorta segmentation. The algorithm the authors propose first detects an initial aorta boundary by exploiting cross-sectional circularity of aorta in axial slices and aortic arch in reformatted oblique slices. This boundary is then refined by a 3D level-set segmentation that evolves the boundary to the location of nearby edges. The authors then detect the aortic calcifications with thresholding and filter out the false positive regions due to nearby high intensity structures based on their anatomical location. The authors extract the centerline and oblique cross sections of the segmented aortas and compute the aorta morphology and calcification measures of the first 2500 subjects from COPDGene study. These measures include volume and number of calcified plaques and measures of vessel morphology such as average cross-sectional area, tortuosity, and arch width. Results: The authors computed the agreement between the algorithm and expert segmentations on 45 CT scans and obtained a closest point mean error of 0.62 ± 0.09 mm and a Dice coefficient of 0.92 ± 0.01. The calcification detection algorithm resulted in an improved true positive detection rate of 0.96 compared to previous work. The measurements of aorta size agreed with the measurements reported in previous work. The initial results showed associations of aorta morphology with calcification and with aging. These results may indicate aorta stiffening and unwrapping with calcification and aging. Conclusions: The authors have developed an objective tool to assess aorta morphology and aortic calcium plaques on CT scans that may be used to provide information about the presence of cardiovascular disease and its clinical impact in smokers. PMID:26328995

Aortic elongation and the risk for dissection: the Tübingen Aortic Pathoanatomy (TAIPAN) project†.

PubMed

Krüger, Tobias; Oikonomou, Alexandre; Schibilsky, David; Lescan, Mario; Bregel, Katharina; Vöhringer, Luise; Schneider, Wilke; Lausberg, Henning; Blumenstock, Gunnar; Bamberg, Fabian; Schlensak, Christian

2017-06-01

We measured aortic dimensions, particularly length parameters, using 3D imaging with the aim of refining the risk-morphology for Stanford type A aortic dissection (TAD). Computer tomography angiography studies were analysed using the curved multiplanar reformats. At defined landmarks, the diameters and lengths of aortic segments were recorded. Three groups were compared retrospectively: patients actually suffering from a TAD (TAD-group; n  = 150), patients before suffering a TAD (preTAD-group n  = 15) and a healthy control group ( n  = 215). Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs) were analysed (control versus preTAD) to study the diagnostic value of the individual variables. Median diameters of preTAD (43 mm) and TAD (50 mm) aortas were significantly ( P  < 0.001) larger than those of the control group (35 mm). Ninety-three percent of preTAD and 68% of TAD aortas were less than 55 mm in the mid-ascending aorta. The ascending aorta and the aortic arch were significantly longer in both preTAD and TAD aortas compared to control aortas ( P  < 0.001); in the control aortas the central line distance from the aortic valve to the brachiocephalic trunk was 93 mm. In preTAD aortas, it was 111 mm, and it was 117 mm in TAD aortas ( P  < 0.001). In ROC analysis, the area under the curve was 0.912 for the ascending diameter and 0.787 for the ascending and arch lengths. TAD-prediction based on the aortic diameter is ineffective. Besides circumferential dilatation, ascending aorta elongation precedes TAD and appears to be a useful additional parameter for prognostication. We propose a diagnostic score involving ascending aorta diameter and length. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Rho-dependent kinase is involved in agonist-activated calcium entry in rat arteries

PubMed Central

Ghisdal, Philippe; Vandenberg, Greet; Morel, Nicole

2003-01-01

The present study was aimed at investigating whether, besides its pivotal role in Ca2+-independent contraction of smooth muscle, Rho-kinase is involved in the mechanisms underlying the Ca2+ signal activated by noradrenaline in arteries. In rat aorta and mesenteric artery, the Rho-kinase inhibitor Y-27632 (10 μM) completely relaxed the contraction evoked by noradrenaline (1 μM) and simultaneously inhibited the Ca2+ signal by 54 ± 1 % (mesenteric artery) and 71 ± 15 % (aorta), and the cell membrane depolarisation by 56 ± 11 % (mesenteric artery). A similar effect was observed in arteries contracted by AlF4−, while in KCl-contracted arteries, Y-27632 decreased tension without changing cytosolic Ca2+. The same effects were observed with another inhibitor of Rho-kinase (HA1077) but not with an inhibitor of protein kinase C (Ro-31–8220). Effects of Y-27632 were not prevented by incubating the artery in 25 mM KCl, with K+ channel blockers or with the Ca2+ channel blocker nimodipine. Y-27632 did not affect either the increase in the production of inositol phosphates activated by noradrenaline, or the release of Ca2+ from non-mitochondrial stores evoked by InsP3 in permeabilised aortic cells, or the Ca2+ signals evoked by thapsigargin or caffeine. The capacitative Ca2+ entry activated by thapsigargin was not impaired by Y-27632, but the entry of Ba2+ activated by noradrenaline in the presence of nimodipine was blocked by 10 μM Y-27632. These results indicate that Rho-kinase is involved in noradrenaline activation of a Ca2+ entry distinct from voltage- or store-operated channels in rat arteries. PMID:12853654

Plasmalogen modulation attenuates atherosclerosis in ApoE- and ApoE/GPx1-deficient mice.

PubMed

Rasmiena, Aliki A; Barlow, Christopher K; Stefanovic, Nada; Huynh, Kevin; Tan, Ricardo; Sharma, Arpeeta; Tull, Dedreia; de Haan, Judy B; Meikle, Peter J

2015-12-01

We previously reported a negative association of circulating plasmalogens (phospholipids with proposed atheroprotective properties) with coronary artery disease. Plasmalogen modulation was previously demonstrated in animals but its effect on atherosclerosis was unknown. We assessed the effect of plasmalogen enrichment on atherosclerosis of murine models with differing levels of oxidative stress. Six-week old ApoE- and ApoE/glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx1)-deficient mice were fed a high-fat diet with/without 2% batyl alcohol (precursor to plasmalogen synthesis) for 12 weeks. Mass spectrometry analysis of lipids showed that batyl alcohol supplementation to ApoE- and ApoE/GPx1-deficient mice increased the total plasmalogen levels in both plasma and heart. Oxidation of plasmalogen in the treated mice was evident from increased level of plasmalogen oxidative by-product, sn-2 lysophospholipids. Atherosclerotic plaque in the aorta was reduced by 70% (P = 5.69E-07) and 69% (P = 2.00E-04) in treated ApoE- and ApoE/GPx1-deficient mice, respectively. A 40% reduction in plaque (P = 7.74E-03) was also seen in the aortic sinus of only the treated ApoE/GPx1-deficient mice. Only the treated ApoE/GPx1-deficient mice showed a decrease in VCAM-1 staining (-28%, P = 2.43E-02) in the aortic sinus and nitrotyrosine staining (-78%, P = 5.11E-06) in the aorta. Plasmalogen enrichment via batyl alcohol supplementation attenuated atherosclerosis in ApoE- and ApoE/GPx1-deficient mice, with a greater effect in the latter group. Plasmalogen enrichment may represent a viable therapeutic strategy to prevent atherosclerosis and reduce cardiovascular disease risk, particularly under conditions of elevated oxidative stress and inflammation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cerebral and Renal Oxygen Saturation Are Not Compromised in the Presence of Retrograde Blood Flow in either the Ascending or Descending Aorta in Term or Near-Term Infants with Left-Sided Obstructive Lesions.

PubMed

van der Laan, Michelle E; Mebius, Mirthe J; Roofthooft, Marcus T R; Bos, Arend F; Berger, Rolf M F; Kooi, Elisabeth M W

2017-01-01

In infants with left-sided obstructive lesions (LSOL), the presence of retrograde blood flow in either the ascending or descending aorta may lead to diminished cerebral and renal blood flow, respectively. Our aim was to compare cerebral and renal tissue oxygen saturation (rSO2) between infants with LSOL with antegrade and retrograde blood flow in the ascending aorta and with and without diastolic backflow in the descending aorta. Based on 2 echocardiograms, the study group was categorized according to the direction of blood flow in the ascending and descending aorta. We measured cerebral and renal rSO2 using near-infrared spectroscopy and calculated fractional tissue oxygen extraction (FTOE). Nineteen infants with LSOL, admitted to the NICU between 0 and 28 days after birth, were included. Infants with antegrade blood flow (n = 12) and infants with retrograde blood flow in the ascending aorta (n = 7) had similar cerebral rSO2 and FTOE during both echocardiograms. Only during the first echocardiogram, infants with retrograde blood flow in the ascending aorta had lower renal FTOE (0.14 vs. 0.32, p = 0.04) and tended to have higher renal rSO2 (80 vs. 65%, p = 0.09). The presence of diastolic backflow in the descending aorta was not associated with cerebral or renal rSO2 and FTOE during the first (n = 8) as well as the second echocardiogram (n = 10). Retrograde blood flow in the ascending aorta was not associated with cerebral oxygenation, while diastolic backflow in the descending aorta was not associated with renal oxygenation in infants with LSOL. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Atorvastatin and sildenafil decrease vascular TGF-β levels and MMP-2 activity and ameliorate arterial remodeling in a model of renovascular hypertension

PubMed Central

Guimarães, Danielle A.; Rizzi, Elen; Ceron, Carla S.; Martins-Oliveira, Alisson; Gerlach, Raquel F.; Shiva, Sruti; Tanus-Santos, Jose E.

2015-01-01

Imbalanced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 activity and transforming growth factor expression (TGF-β) are involved in vascular remodeling of hypertension. Atorvastatin and sildenafil exert antioxidant and pleiotropic effects that may result in cardiovascular protection. We hypothesized that atorvastatin and sildenafil alone or in association exert antiproliferative effects by down-regulating MMP-2 and TGF-β, thus reducing the vascular hypertrophy induced by two kidney, one clip (2K1C) hypertension. Sham and 2K1C rats were treated with oral atorvastatin 50 mg/kg, sildenafil 45 mg/kg, or both, daily for 8 weeks. Blood pressure was monitored weekly. Morphologic changes in the aortas were studied. TGF-β levels were determined by immunofluorescence. MMP-2 activity and expression were determined by in situ zymography, gel zymography, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence. The effects of both drugs on proliferative responses of aortic smooth muscle cells to PDGF and on on MMP-2 activity in vitro were determined. Atorvastatin, sildenafil, or both drugs exerted antiproliferative effects in vitro. All treatments attenuated 2K1C-induced hypertension and prevented the increases in the aortic cross-sectional area and media/lumen ratio in 2K1C rats. Aortas from 2K1C rats showed higher collagen deposition, TGF-β levels and MMP-2 activity and expression when compared with Sham-operated animals. Treatment with atorvastatin and/or sildenafil was associated with attenuation of 2K1C hypertension-induced increases in these pro-fibrotic factors. However, these drugs had no in vitro effects on hr-MMP-2 activity. Atorvastatin and sildenafil was associated with decreased vascular TGF-β levels and MMP-2 activity in renovascular hypertensive rats, thus ameliorating the vascular remodeling. These novel pleiotropic effects of both drugs may translate into protective effects in patients. PMID:26343345

Food supplementation with rice bran enzymatic extract prevents vascular apoptosis and atherogenesis in ApoE-/- mice.

PubMed

Perez-Ternero, C; Herrera, M D; Laufs, U; Alvarez de Sotomayor, M; Werner, C

2017-02-01

Atherosclerosis is associated with reduced mononuclear cell (MNC) telomere length, and senescent cells have been detected in atherosclerotic plaques. Rice bran is a source of γ-oryzanol, phytosterols and tocols with potential lipid-lowering, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Here, we tested the hypothesis that rice bran enzymatic extract (RBEE) impacts on apoptosis, telomere length and atherogenesis in mice. Seven-week-old male ApoE-/- mice were fed high-fat diet (HFD) or isocaloric HFD supplemented with 5 % (w/w) RBEE for 23 weeks. Wild-type mice of the same age were kept under standard diet as controls. RBEE treatment reduced total cholesterol (19.24 ± 1.63 vs 24.49 ± 1.71 mmol/L) and triglycerides (1.13 ± 0.18 vs 1.75 ± 0.22 mmol/L) and augmented HDL-cholesterol (1.86 ± 0.20 vs 1.07 ± 0.20 mmol/L). RBEE attenuated macrophage infiltration by 56.69 ± 4.65 % and plaque development (7737 ± 836 vs 12,040 ± 1001 μm 2 ) in the aortic sinus. In the aorta, RBEE treatment reduced expression of the apoptosis pathway components p16, p53 and bax/bcl-2 ratio. RBEE prevented apoptosis of aortic endothelial cells (2.81 ± 0.71-1.14 ± 0.35 apoptotic nuclei/ring for ApoE-/- HFD and ApoE-/- HFD 5 % RBEE, respectively). In contrast, MNC of RBEE-fed mice exhibited enhanced apoptosis marker expression with increased p53 and bax/bcl-2 protein levels. Compared to WT, ApoE-/- mice on HFD were characterized by significant telomere shortening in aorta (11 ± 2 %) and MNC (73 ± 7 %), which was reduced by supplementation with RBEE (aorta: 40 ± 7 %; MNC: 105 ± 10 %). Expression of telomere repeat-binding factor 2 was increased in RBEE-fed mice. Long-term food supplementation with RBEE lowers cholesterol and prevents atherosclerotic plaque development in ApoE-/- mice. Differential regulation of vascular and MNC apoptosis and senescence were identified as potential mechanisms.

Streptococcus pyogenes Phospholipase A2 Induces the Expression of Adhesion Molecules on Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells and Aorta of Mice.

PubMed

Oda, Masataka; Domon, Hisanori; Kurosawa, Mie; Isono, Toshihito; Maekawa, Tomoki; Yamaguchi, Masaya; Kawabata, Shigetada; Terao, Yutaka

2017-01-01

The Streptococcus pyogenes phospholipase A 2 (SlaA) gene is highly conserved in the M3 serotype of group A S. pyogenes , which often involves hypervirulent clones. However, the role of SlaA in S. pyogenes pathogenesis is unclear. Herein, we report that SlaA induces the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1) via the arachidonic acid signaling cascade. Notably, recombinant SlaA induced ICAM1 and VCAM1 expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), resulting in enhanced adhesion of human monocytic leukemia (THP-1) cells. However, C134A, a variant enzyme with no enzymatic activity, did not induce such events. In addition, culture supernatants from S. pyogenes SSI-1 enhanced the adhesion of THP-1 cells to HUVECs, but culture supernatants from the Δ slaA isogenic mutant strain had limited effects. Aspirin, a cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitor, prevented the adhesion of THP-1 cells to HUVECs and did not induce ICAM1 and VCAM1 expression in HUVECs treated with SlaA. However, zileuton, a 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor, did not exhibit such effects. Furthermore, pre-administration of aspirin in mice intravenously injected with SlaA attenuated the transcriptional abundance of ICAM1 and VCAM1 in the aorta. These results suggested that SlaA from S. pyogenes stimulates the expression of adhesion molecules in vascular endothelial cells. Thus, SlaA contributes to the inflammation of vascular endothelial cells upon S. pyogenes infection.

Effects of carvedilol or amlodipine on target organ damage in L-NAME hypertensive rats: their relationship with blood pressure variability.

PubMed

Del Mauro, Julieta S; Prince, Paula D; Donato, Martín; Fernandez Machulsky, Nahuel; Morettón, Marcela A; González, Germán E; Bertera, Facundo M; Carranza, Andrea; Gorzalczany, Susana B; Chiappetta, Diego A; Berg, Gabriela; Morales, Celina; Gelpi, Ricardo J; Taira, Carlos A; Höcht, Christian

2017-04-01

The aim of the study was to compare the effects of chronic oral treatment with carvedilol or amlodipine on blood pressure, blood pressure variability and target organ damage in N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) hypertensive rats. Wistar rats were treated with L-NAME administered in the drinking water for 8 weeks together with oral administration of carvedilol 30 mg/kg (n = 6), amlodipine 10 mg/kg (n = 6), or vehicle (n = 6). At the end of the treatment, echocardiographic evaluation, blood pressure, and short-term variability measurements were performed. Left ventricular and thoracic aortas were removed to assess activity of metalloproteinase 2 and 9 and expression levels of transforming growth factor β, tumor necrosis factor α, and interleukin 6. Histological samples were prepared from both tissues. Carvedilol and amlodipine induced a comparable reduction of systolic and mean arterial pressure and its short-term variability in L-NAME rats. The expression of transforming growth factor β, tumor necrosis factor α, and interleukin 6 decreased in both organs after carvedilol or amlodipine treatment and the activity of metalloproteinase was reduced in aortic tissue. Treatment with carvedilol or amlodipine completely prevented left ventricular collagen deposition and morphometric alterations in aorta. Oral chronic treatment with carvedilol or amlodipine significantly attenuates blood pressure variability and reduces target organ damage and biomarkers of tissue fibrosis and inflammation in L-NAME hypertensive rats. Copyright © 2017 American Society of Hypertension. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Endothelial relaxation mechanisms and nitrative stress are partly restored by Vitamin D3 therapy in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Masszi, Gabriella; Benko, Rita; Csibi, Noemi; Horvath, Eszter M; Tokes, Anna-Maria; Novak, Agnes; Beres, Nora Judit; Tarszabo, Robert; Buday, Anna; Repas, Csaba; Bekesi, Gabor; Patocs, Attila; Nadasy, Gyorgy L; Hamar, Peter; Benyo, Zoltan; Varbiro, Szabolcs

2013-08-06

In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), metabolic and cardiovascular dysfunction is related to hyperandrogenic status and insulin resistance, however, Vitamin D3 has a beneficial effect partly due to its anti-oxidant capacity. Nitrative stress is a major factor in the development of cardiovascular dysfunction and insulin resistance in various diseases. Our aim was to determine the effects of vitamin D3 in a rat model of PCOS, particularly the pathogenic role of nitrative stress. Female Wistar rats weighing 100-140g were administered vehicle (C), dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or dihydrotestosterone plus vitamin D3 (DHT+D) (n=10 per group). On the 10th week, acetylcholine (Ach) induced relaxation ability of the isolated thoracic aorta rings was determined. In order to examine the possible role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) pathways in the impaired endothelial function, immunohistochemical labeling of aortas with anti-eNOS and anti-COX-2 antibodies was performed. Leukocyte smears, aorta and ovary tissue sections were also immunostained with anti-nitrotyrosine antibody to determine nitrative stress. Relaxation ability of aorta was reduced in group DHT, and vitamin D3 partly restored Ach induced relaxation. eNOS labeling was significantly lower in DHT rats compared to the other two groups, however COX-2 staining showed an increment. Nitrative stress showed a significant increase in response to dihydrotestosterone, while vitamin D3 treatment, in case of the ovaries, was able to reverse this effect. Nitrative stress may play a role in the pathogenesis of PCOS and in the development of the therapeutic effect of vitamin D3. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quercetin and pioglitazone synergistically reverse endothelial dysfunction in isolated aorta from fructose-streptozotocin (F-STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

PubMed

Kunasegaran, Thubasni; Mustafa, Mohd Rais; Achike, Francis I; Murugan, Dharmani Devi

2017-03-15

Pioglitazone is an anti-diabetic drug with potential to cause adverse effects following prolonged use. This study, therefore, investigated the effects of combination treatment of a subliminal concentration of pioglitazone and quercetin, a potent antioxidant, on vascular reactivity of aorta isolated from fructose-streptozotocin (F-STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Relaxation to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside, and contraction to phenylephrine were tested in organ bath chambers following pre-incubation with vehicle (DMSO; 0.05%), quercetin (10-7 M), pioglitazone (10-7 M), or their combination (P+Q; 10-7 M each drug). Subliminal concentration of quercetin or pioglitazone did not alter the acetylcholine- induced relaxation nor the phenylephrine-induced contraction in both normal rat and diabetic F-STZ induced tissues. However, P+Q combination synergistically improved the impaired acetylcholine-induced relaxation and decreased the elevated phenylephrine-induced contraction in aortic rings from diabetic, but not in the normal rats. Neither mono nor combination treatment altered sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxation. The combination also synergistically decreased superoxide anion and increased nitric oxide production compared to the individual treatments in aorta from diabetic rats. Overall, these data demonstrated a synergistic effect, in which, a combination (P+Q; 10-7 M each drug) caused a significantly greater effect than 10-6 M of either agent in improving endothelial function of isolated diabetic aorta. In conclusion, a combination of subliminal concentrations of pioglitazone and quercetin is able to decrease oxidative stress and provide synergistic vascular protection in type 2 diabetes mellitus and thus the possibility of using quercetin as a supplement to pioglitazone in the treatment of diabetes with the goal of reducing pioglitazone toxicity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Lipid emulsions enhance the norepinephrine-mediated reversal of local anesthetic-induced vasodilation at toxic doses.

PubMed

Lee, Soo Hee; Sung, Hui-Jin; Ok, Seong-Ho; Yu, Jongsun; Choi, Mun-Jeoung; Lim, Jin Soo; Sohn, Ju-Tae

2013-11-01

Intravenous lipid emulsions have been used to treat the systemic toxicity of local anesthetics. The goal of this in vitro study was to examine the effects of lipid emulsions on the norepinephrine-mediated reversal of vasodilation induced by high doses of levobupivacaine, ropivacaine, and mepivacaine in isolated endothelium-denuded rat aorta, and to determine whether such effects are associated with the lipid solubility of local anesthetics. The effects of lipid emulsions (0.30, 0.49, 1.40, and 2.61%) on norepinephrine concentration-responses in high-dose local anesthetic (6×10(-4) M levobupivacaine, 2×10(-3) M ropivacaine, and 7×10(-3) M mepivacaine)-induced vasodilation of isolated aorta precontracted with 60 mM KCl were assessed. The effects of lipid emulsions on local anesthetic- and diltiazem-induced vasodilation in isolated aorta precontracted with phenylephrine were also assessed. Lipid emulsions (0.30%) enhanced norepinephrine-induced contraction in levobupivacaine-induced vasodilation, whereas 1.40 and 2.61% lipid emulsions enhanced norepinephrine-induced contraction in both ropivacaine- and mepivacaine-induced vasodilation, respectively. Lipid emulsions (0.20, 0.49 and 1.40%) inhibited vasodilation induced by levobupivacaine and ropivacaine, whereas 1.40 and 2.61% lipid emulsions slightly attenuated mepivacaine (3×10(-3) M)-induced vasodilation. In addition, lipid emulsions attenuated diltiazem-induced vasodilation. Lipid emulsions enhanced norepinephrine-induced contraction in endothelium-denuded aorta without pretreatment with local anesthetics. Taken together, these results suggest that lipid emulsions enhance the norepinephrine-mediated reversal of local anesthetic-induced vasodilation at toxic anesthetic doses and inhibit local anesthetic-induced vasodilation in a manner correlated with the lipid solubility of a particular local anesthetic.

Using In Vivo and Tissue and Cell Explant Approaches to Study the Morphogenesis and Pathogenesis of the Embryonic and Perinatal Aorta.

PubMed

Misra, Ashish; Feng, Zhonghui; Zhang, Jiasheng; Lou, Zhi-Yin; Greif, Daniel M

2017-09-12

The aorta is the largest artery in the body. The aortic wall is composed of an inner layer of endothelial cells, a middle layer of alternating elastic lamellae and smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and an outer layer of fibroblasts and extracellular matrix. In contrast to the widespread study of pathological models (e.g., atherosclerosis) in the adult aorta, much less is known about the embryonic and perinatal aorta. Here, we focus on SMCs and provide protocols for the analysis of the morphogenesis and pathogenesis of embryonic and perinatal aortic SMCs in normal development and disease. Specifically, the four protocols included are: i) in vivo embryonic fate mapping and clonal analysis; ii) explant embryonic aorta culture; iii) SMC isolation from the perinatal aorta; and iv) subcutaneous osmotic mini-pump placement in pregnant (or non-pregnant) mice. Thus, these approaches facilitate the investigation of the origin(s), fate, and clonal architecture of SMCs in the aorta in vivo. They allow for modulating embryonic aorta morphogenesis in utero by continuous exposure to pharmacological agents. In addition, isolated aortic tissue explants or aortic SMCs can be used to gain insights into the role of specific gene targets during fundamental processes such as muscularization, proliferation, and migration. These hypothesis-generating experiments on isolated SMCs and the explanted aorta can then be assessed in the in vivo context through pharmacological and genetic approaches.

Endothelium-derived contracting factors mediate the Ang II-induced endothelial dysfunction in the rat aorta: preventive effect of red wine polyphenols.

PubMed

Kane, Modou O; Etienne-Selloum, Nelly; Madeira, Soccoro V F; Sarr, Mamadou; Walter, Allison; Dal-Ros, Stéphanie; Schott, Christa; Chataigneau, Thierry; Schini-Kerth, Valérie B

2010-04-01

Angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced hypertension is associated with vascular oxidative stress and an endothelial dysfunction. This study examined the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and endothelium-derived contracting factors in Ang II-induced endothelial dysfunction and whether these effects are prevented by red wine polyphenols (RWPs), a rich source of natural antioxidants. Rats were infused with Ang II for 14 days. RWPs were administered in the drinking water 1 week before and during the Ang II infusion. Arterial pressure was measured in conscious rats. Vascular reactivity was assessed in organ chambers and cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and COX-2 expression by Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses. Ang II-induced hypertension was associated with blunted endothelium-dependent relaxations and induction of endothelium-dependent contractions in the presence of nitro-L-arginine in response to acetylcholine (Ach). These effects were not affected by the combination of membrane permeant analogs of superoxide dismutase and catalase but were abolished by the thromboxane A(2) (TP) receptor antagonist GR32191B and the COX-2 inhibitor NS-398. The COX-1 inhibitor SC-560 also prevented contractile responses to Ach. Ang II increased the expression of COX-1 and COX-2 in the aortic wall. RWPs prevented Ang II-induced hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, and upregulation of COX-1 and COX-2. Thus, Ang II-induced endothelial dysfunction cannot be explained by an acute formation of ROS reducing the bioavailability of nitric oxide but rather by COX-dependent formation of contracting factors acting on TP receptors. RWPs are able to prevent the Ang II-induced endothelial dysfunction mostly due to their antioxidant properties.

Metoprolol Reduces Proinflammatory Cytokines and Atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− Mice

PubMed Central

Ulleryd, Marcus A.; Bernberg, Evelina; Yang, Li Jin; Bergström, Göran M. L.; Johansson, Maria E.

2014-01-01

A few studies in animals and humans suggest that metoprolol (β1-selective adrenoceptor antagonist) may have a direct antiatherosclerotic effect. However, the mechanism behind this protective effect has not been established. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of metoprolol on development of atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− mice and investigate its effect on the release of proinflammatory cytokines. Male ApoE−/− mice were treated with metoprolol (2.5 mg/kg/h) or saline for 11 weeks via osmotic minipumps. Atherosclerosis was assessed in thoracic aorta and aortic root. Total cholesterol levels and Th1/Th2 cytokines were analyzed in serum and macrophage content in lesions by immunohistochemistry. Metoprolol significantly reduced atherosclerotic plaque area in thoracic aorta (P < 0.05 versus Control). Further, metoprolol reduced serum TNFα and the chemokine CXCL1 (P < 0.01 versus Control for both) as well as decreasing the macrophage content in the plaques (P < 0.01 versus Control). Total cholesterol levels were not affected. In this study we found that a moderate dose of metoprolol significantly reduced atherosclerotic plaque area in thoracic aorta of ApoE−/− mice. Metoprolol also decreased serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines TNFα and CXCL1 and macrophage content in the plaques, showing that metoprolol has an anti-inflammatory effect. PMID:25105129

Discordant effects of guanidines on renal structure and function and on regional vascular dysfunction and collagen changes in diabetic rats.

PubMed

Nyengaard, J R; Chang, K; Berhorst, S; Reiser, K M; Williamson, J R; Tilton, R G

1997-01-01

We examined the effects of aminoguanidine and methylguanidine on vascular dysfunction, glomerular structural changes, and indexes of early and late nonenzymatic glycation in 7-month streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Kidney weight, glomerular volume, fractional mesangial volume, glomerular capillary basement membrane width, and urinary albumin excretion were increased in diabetic rats. Diabetes also 1) increased vascular albumin permeation twofold in retina, sciatic nerve, aorta, skin, and kidney; 2) decreased renal collagenase-soluble collagen; 3) increased collagen-associated fluorescence in kidney and skin but not in aorta; and 4) increased glycated hemoglobin levels and aortic pentosidine levels. Aminoguanidine reduced albuminuria by 70% after 4 months, and both guanidines 1) normalized aortic pentosidine levels and renal collagenase-soluble collagen, 2) had no effect on glycated hemoglobin levels or collagen-associated fluorescence (in aorta, kidney, or skin), and 3) had little or no effect on regional albumin permeation. These discordant effects of aminoguanidine on diabetes-induced vascular changes versus parameters of nonenzymatic glycation are consistent with a multifactorial pathogenesis of diabetic complications, including roles for metabolic imbalances independent of nonenzymatic glycation. To the extent that glomerular matrix accumulation and increased regional albumin permeation in chronically diabetic rats are sequelae of nonenzymatic glycation, these findings point to an important role for early glycation reactions and products.

Effects of hirsutine, an antihypertensive indole alkaloid from Uncaria rhynchophylla, on intracellular calcium in rat thoracic aorta.

PubMed

Horie, S; Yano, S; Aimi, N; Sakai, S; Watanabe, K

1992-01-01

The effects of hirsutine, an indole alkaloid from Uncaria rhynchophylla (MIQ.) Jackson, on cytosolic Ca2+ level ([Ca2+]cyt) were studied by using fura-2-Ca2+ fluorescence in smooth muscle of the isolated rat aorta. Noradrenaline and high K+ solution produced a sustained increase in [Ca2+]cyt. Application of hirsutine after the increases in [Ca2+]cyt induced by noradrenaline and high K+ notably decreased [Ca2+]cyt, suggesting that hirsutine inhibits Ca2+ influx mainly through a voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel. Furthermore, the effect of hirsutine on intracellular Ca2+ store was studied by using contractile responses to caffeine under the Ca(2+)-free nutrient condition in the rat aorta. When hirsutine was added at 30 microM before caffeine treatment, the agent slightly but significantly reduced the caffeine-induced contraction. When added during Ca2+ loading, hirsutine definitely augmented the contractile response to caffeine. These results suggest that hirsutine inhibits Ca2+ release from the Ca2+ store and increases Ca2+ uptake into the Ca2+ store, leading to a reduction of intracellular Ca2+ level. It is concluded that hirsutine reduces intracellular Ca2+ level through its effect on the Ca2+ store as well as through its effect on the voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel.

Functional similarities in the mechanical design of the aorta in lower vertebrates and mammals.

PubMed

Gibbons, C A; Shadwick, R E

1989-12-01

The mechanical properties of the aorta from the toad Bufo marinus, the lizard Gekko gecko and the garter snake Thamnophis radix were compared to those of the rat, by inflation of vessel segments in vitro. The arteries of the lower vertebrates, like those of mammals, were compliant, highly resilient, and non-linearly elastic. The elastic modulus of the artery wall was similar in the lower vertebrates and mammals, at their respective mean physiological pressures. We conclude that the aorta in each of these animals is suitably designed to function effectively as an elastic pulse smoothing component in the circulation; differences in the pressure wave transmission characteristics of lower vertebrates and mammals do not result from dissimilarities in arterial elastic properties, but from substantial differences in heart rate of these two groups.

Heterogeneity in the Segmental Development of the Aortic Tree: Impact on Management of Genetically Triggered Aortic Aneurysms

PubMed Central

Sherif, Hisham M.F.

2014-01-01

An extensive search of the medical literature examining the development of the thoracic aortic tree reveals that the thoracic aorta does not develop as one unit or in one stage: the oldest part of the thoracic aorta is the descending aorta with the aortic arch being the second oldest, developing under influence from the neural crest cell. Following in chronological order are the proximal ascending aorta and aortic root, which develop from a conotruncal origin. Different areas of the thoracic aorta develop under the influence of different gene sets. These parts develop from different cell lineages: the aortic root (the conotruncus), developing from the mesoderm; the ascending aorta and aortic arch, developing from the neural crest cells; and the descending aorta from the mesoderm. Findings illustrate that the thoracic aorta is not a single entity, in developmental terms. It develops from three or four distinct areas, at different stages of embryonic life, and under different sets of genes and signaling pathways. Genetically triggered thoracic aortic aneurysms are not a monolithic group but rather share a multi-genetic origin. Identification of therapeutic targets should be based on the predilection of certain genes to cause aneurysmal disease in specific aortic segments. PMID:26798739

A Methodology to Detect Abnormal Relative Wall Shear Stress on the Full Surface of the Thoracic Aorta Using 4D Flow MRI

PubMed Central

van Ooij, Pim; Potters, Wouter V.; Nederveen, Aart J.; Allen, Bradley D.; Collins, Jeremy; Carr, James; Malaisrie, S. Chris; Markl, Michael; Barker, Alex J.

2014-01-01

Purpose To compute cohort-averaged wall shear stress (WSS) maps in the thoracic aorta of patients with aortic dilatation or valvular stenosis and to detect abnormal regional WSS. Methods Systolic WSS vectors, estimated from 4D flow MRI data, were calculated along the thoracic aorta lumen in 10 controls, 10 patients with dilated aortas and 10 patients with aortic valve stenosis. 3D segmentations of each aorta were co-registered by group and used to create a cohort-specific aortic geometry. The WSS vectors of each subject were interpolated onto the corresponding cohort-specific geometry to create cohort-averaged WSS maps. A Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to generate aortic P-value maps (P<0.05) representing regional relative WSS differences between groups. Results Cohort-averaged systolic WSS maps and P-value maps were successfully created for all cohorts and comparisons. The dilation cohort showed significantly lower WSS on 7% of the ascending aorta surface, whereas the stenosis cohort showed significantly higher WSS aorta on 34% the ascending aorta surface. Conclusions The findings of this study demonstrated the feasibility of generating cohort-averaged WSS maps for the visualization and identification of regionally altered WSS in the presence of disease, as compared to healthy controls. PMID:24753241

Biaxial tensile tests of the porcine ascending aorta.

PubMed

Deplano, Valérie; Boufi, Mourad; Boiron, Olivier; Guivier-Curien, Carine; Alimi, Yves; Bertrand, Eric

2016-07-05

One of the aims of this work is to develop an original custom built biaxial set-up to assess mechanical behavior of soft tissues. Stretch controlled biaxial tensile tests are performed and stereoscopic digital image correlation (SDIC) is implemented to measure the 3D components of the generated displacements. Using this experimental device, the main goal is to investigate the mechanical behavior of porcine ascending aorta in the more general context of human ascending aorta pathologies. The results highlight that (i) SDIC arrangement allows accurate assessment of displacements and so stress strain curves, (ii) porcine ascending aorta has a nearly linear and anisotropic mechanical behavior until 30% of strain, (iii) porcine ascending aorta is stiffer in the circumferential direction than in the longitudinal one, (iv) the material coefficient representing the interaction between the two loading directions is thickness dependent, (v) taking into account the variability of the samples the stress values are independent of the stretch rate in the range of values from 10(-3) to 10(-1)s(-1) and finally, (vi) unlike other segments of the aorta, 4-month-old pigs ascending aorta is definitely not a relevant model to investigate the mechanical behavior of the human ascending aorta. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Severe Obstructive Calcification of the Descending Aorta: A Case Report of "Coral Reef Aorta".

PubMed

Ishigaki, Takahiro; Matsuda, Hitoshi; Henmi, Soichiro; Yoshida, Masato; Mukohara, Nobuhiko

2017-06-25

An 82-year-old man suffering from lower back pain and dyspnea presented to our institute in a state of shock. Computed tomography showed subtotal occlusion of the descending aorta with massive atherosclerotic calcification. As the proximal portion of the superior mesenteric artery was obstructed, emergency bypass from the right axillary artery to the bilateral external iliac arteries was performed, but the patient died 2 days later. Autopsy revealed that reddish-brown and verrucous masses obstructed the descending aorta, and high-grade thickening of the intima and extensive deposits of calcium in the lumina and medial layer were detected in the descending aorta histologically.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm clinically pertinent controversies and uncertainties.

PubMed

Elefteriades, John A; Farkas, Emily A

2010-03-02

This paper addresses clinical controversies and uncertainties regarding thoracic aortic aneurysm and its treatment. 1) Estimating true aortic size is confounded by obliquity, asymmetry, and noncorresponding sites: both echocardiography and computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging are necessary for complete assessment. 2) Epidemiology of thoracic aortic aneurysm. There has been a bona fide increase in incidence of aortic aneurysm making aneurysm disease the 18th most common cause of death. 3) Aortic growth rate. Although a virulent disease, thoracic aortic aneurysm is an indolent process. The thoracic aorta grows slowly-0.1 cm/year. 4) Evidence-based intervention criteria. It is imperative to extirpate the thoracic aorta before rupture or dissection occurs; surgery at 5.0- to 5.5-cm diameter will prevent most adverse natural events. Symptomatic (painful) aneurysms must be resected regardless of size. 5) Development of nonsize criteria. Mechanical properties of the aorta deteriorate at the same 6 cm at which dissection occurs; elastic properties of the aorta may soon become useful intervention criteria. 6) Medical treatment of aortic aneurysm. Medical treatment is of unproven value, even beta-blockers and angiotensin-receptor blockers. 7) A genetic disease. Even non-Marfan aneurysms have a strong genetic basis. 8) Need for biomarkers. Virulent but silent, TAA cries out for a biomarker that can predict the onset of adverse events. Pathophysiologic understanding has led to identification of promising biomarkers, especially metalloproteinases. 9) Endovascular therapy for aneurysms. Endovascular therapy has burgeoned, despite the fact that the EVAR-2, DREAM, and INSTEAD trials showed no benefit at mid-term over medical or conventional surgical therapy. We must avoid "irrational exuberance." 10) Inciting events for acute aortic dissection. Recent evidence shows that dissections are preceded by a specific severe exertional or emotional event. 11) "Silver lining" of aortic disease. Proximal aortic root disease seems to protect against arteriosclerosis. Copyright 2010 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The risk for type B aortic dissection in Marfan syndrome.

PubMed

den Hartog, Alexander W; Franken, Romy; Zwinderman, Aeilko H; Timmermans, Janneke; Scholte, Arthur J; van den Berg, Maarten P; de Waard, Vivian; Pals, Gerard; Mulder, Barbara J M; Groenink, Maarten

2015-01-27

Aortic dissections involving the descending aorta are a major clinical problem in patients with Marfan syndrome. The purpose of this study was to identify clinical parameters associated with type B aortic dissection and to develop a risk model to predict type B aortic dissection in patients with Marfan syndrome. Patients with the diagnosis of Marfan syndrome and magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomographic imaging of the aorta were followed for a median of 6 years for the occurrence of type B dissection or the combined end point of type B aortic dissection, distal aortic surgery, and death. A model using various clinical parameters as well as genotyping was developed to predict the risk for type B dissection in patients with Marfan syndrome. Between 1998 and 2013, 54 type B aortic dissections occurred in 600 patients with Marfan syndrome (mean age 36 ± 14 years, 52% male). Independent variables associated with type B aortic dissection were prior prophylactic aortic surgery (hazard ratio: 2.1; 95% confidence interval: 1.2 to 3.8; p = 0.010) and a proximal descending aorta diameter ≥27 mm (hazard ratio: 2.2; 95% confidence interval: 1.1 to 4.3; p = 0.020). In the risk model, the 10-year occurrence of type B aortic dissection in low-, moderate-, and high-risk patients was 6%, 19%, and 34%, respectively. Angiotensin II receptor blocker therapy was associated with fewer type B aortic dissections (hazard ratio: 0.3; 95% confidence interval: 0.1 to 0.9; p = 0.030). Patients with Marfan syndrome with prior prophylactic aortic surgery are at substantial risk for type B aortic dissection, even when the descending aorta is only slightly dilated. Angiotensin II receptor blocker therapy may be protective in the prevention of type B aortic dissections. Copyright © 2015 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Genetics Home Reference: familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection

MedlinePlus

... and dissection ( familial TAAD ) involves problems with the aorta , which is the large blood vessel that distributes ... Familial TAAD affects the upper part of the aorta, near the heart. This part of the aorta ...

Inflammation-induced microvascular insulin resistance is an early event in diet-induced obesity.

PubMed

Zhao, Lina; Fu, Zhuo; Wu, Jing; Aylor, Kevin W; Barrett, Eugene J; Cao, Wenhong; Liu, Zhenqi

2015-12-01

Endothelial dysfunction and vascular insulin resistance usually coexist and chronic inflammation engenders both. In the present study, we investigate the temporal relationship between vascular insulin resistance and metabolic insulin resistance. We assessed insulin responses in all arterial segments, including aorta, distal saphenous artery and the microvasculature, as well as the metabolic insulin responses in muscle in rats fed on a high-fat diet (HFD) for various durations ranging from 3 days to 4 weeks with or without sodium salicylate treatment. Compared with controls, HFD feeding significantly blunted insulin-mediated Akt (protein kinase B) and eNOS [endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase] phosphorylation in aorta in 1 week, blunted vasodilatory response in small resistance vessel in 4 weeks and microvascular recruitment in as early as 3 days. Insulin-stimulated whole body glucose disposal did not begin to progressively decrease until after 1 week. Salicylate treatment fully inhibited vascular inflammation, prevented microvascular insulin resistance and significantly improved muscle metabolic responses to insulin. We conclude that microvascular insulin resistance is an early event in diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance and inflammation plays an essential role in this process. Our data suggest microvascular insulin resistance contributes to the development of metabolic insulin resistance in muscle and muscle microvasculature is a potential therapeutic target in the prevention and treatment of diabetes and its related complications. © 2015 Authors; published by Portland Press Limited.

Inflammation-induced microvascular insulin resistance is an early event in diet-induced obesity

PubMed Central

Zhao, Lina; Fu, Zhuo; Wu, Jing; Aylor, Kevin W.; Barrett, Eugene J.; Cao, Wenhong

2015-01-01

Endothelial dysfunction and vascular insulin resistance usually coexist and chronic inflammation engenders both. In the present study, we investigate the temporal relationship between vascular insulin resistance and metabolic insulin resistance. We assessed insulin responses in all arterial segments, including aorta, distal saphenous artery and the microvasculature, as well as the metabolic insulin responses in muscle in rats fed on a high-fat diet (HFD) for various durations ranging from 3 days to 4 weeks with or without sodium salicylate treatment. Compared with controls, HFD feeding significantly blunted insulin-mediated Akt (protein kinase B) and eNOS [endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase] phosphorylation in aorta in 1 week, blunted vasodilatory response in small resistance vessel in 4 weeks and microvascular recruitment in as early as 3 days. Insulin-stimulated whole body glucose disposal did not begin to progressively decrease until after 1 week. Salicylate treatment fully inhibited vascular inflammation, prevented microvascular insulin resistance and significantly improved muscle metabolic responses to insulin. We conclude that microvascular insulin resistance is an early event in diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance and inflammation plays an essential role in this process. Our data suggest microvascular insulin resistance contributes to the development of metabolic insulin resistance in muscle and muscle microvasculature is a potential therapeutic target in the prevention and treatment of diabetes and its related complications. PMID:26265791

Quantification of motion of the thoracic aorta after ascending aortic repair of type-A dissection.

PubMed

Suh, Ga-Young; Fleischmann, Dominik; Beygui, Ramin E; Cheng, Christopher P

2017-05-01

To quantify cardiac and respiratory deformations of the thoracic aorta after ascending aortic graft repair. Eight patients were scanned with cardiac-resolved computed tomography angiography during inspiratory/expiratory breath-holds. Aortic centerlines and lumen were extracted to compute the arclength, curvature, angulation, and cross-section shape. From systole to diastole, the angle of graft [Formula: see text] arch increased by 2.4[Formula: see text] ± 1.8[Formula: see text] (P < 0.01) and the angle of arch [Formula: see text] descending aorta decreased by 2.4[Formula: see text] ± 2.6[Formula: see text] (P < 0.05), while the effective diameter of the proximal arch decreased by 2.4 ± 1.9% (P < 0.01), a greater change than those of the graft or distal arch (P < 0.05). From inspiration to expiration, the angle of graft [Formula: see text] arch increased by 2.8[Formula: see text] ± 2.6[Formula: see text] (P < 0.02) with the peak curvature increase (P < 0.05). Shorter graft length was correlated with greater cardiac-induced graft [Formula: see text] arch angulation, and longer graft length was correlated with greater respiratory-induced arch [Formula: see text] descending aorta angulation (R [Formula: see text] 0.50). The thoracic aorta changed curvature and angulation with cardiac and respiratory influences, driven by aortic root and arch motion. The thoracic aortic geometry and deformation are correlated with the ascending aortic graft length.

Losartan Attenuates Degradation of Aorta and Lung Tissue Micromechanics in a Mouse Model of Severe Marfan Syndrome

PubMed Central

Lee, Jia-Jye; Galatioto, Josephine; Rao, Satish; Ramirez, Francesco; Costa, Kevin D.

2018-01-01

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal dominant disease of the connective tissue due to mutations in the fibrillin-1 gene (FBN1). This study aimed at characterizing microelastic properties of the ascending aorta wall and lung parenchyma tissues from wild type (WT) and age-matched Fbn1 hypomorphic mice (Fbn1mgR/mgR mice) to identify tissue-specific biomechanical effects of aging and disease in MFS. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to indent lung parenchyma and aortic wall tissues, using Hybrid Eshelby Decomposition analysis to extract layer-specific properties of the intima and media. The intima stiffened with age and was not different between WT and Fbn1mgR/mgR tissues, whereas the media layer of mutant aortas showed progressive structural and mechanical degradation with a modulus that was 50% softer than WT by 3.5 months of age. Similarly, mutant mice displayed progressive structural and mechanical deterioration of lung tissue, which was over 85% softer than WT by 3.5 months of age. Chronic treatment with the angiotensin type I receptor antagonist, losartan, attenuated the aorta and lung tissue degradation, resulting in structural and mechanical properties not significantly different from age-matched WT controls. By revealing micromechanical softening of elastin-rich aorta and lung tissues with disease progression in fibrillin-1 deficient mice, our findings support the use of losartan as a prophylactic treatment that may abrogate the life-threatening symptoms of MFS. PMID:27090893

On the Automatic Decellularisation of Porcine Aortae: A Repeatability Study Using a Non-Enzymatic Approach.

PubMed

O'Connor Mooney, Rory; Davis, Niall Francis; Hoey, David; Hogan, Lisa; McGloughlin, Timothy M; Walsh, Michael T

2016-01-01

To investigate the repeatability of automatic decellularisation of porcine aortae using a non-enzymatic approach, addressing current limitations associated with other automatic decellularisation processes. Individual porcine aortae (n = 3) were resected and every third segment (n = 4) was allocated to one of three different groups: a control or a manually or automatically decellularised group. Manual and automatic decellularisation was performed using Triton X-100 (2% v/v) and sodium deoxycholate. Protein preservation and the elimination of a galactosyl-α(1,3)galactose (GAL) epitope were measured using immunohistochemistry and protein binding assays. The presence of residual DNA was determined with gel electrophoresis and spectrophotometry. Scaffold integrity was characterised with scanning electron microscopy and uni-axial tensile testing. Manual and automatic results were compared to one another, to control groups and to current gold standards. The results were comparable to those of current gold standard decellularisation techniques. Successful repeatability was achieved, both manually and automatically, with little effect on mechanical characteristics. Complete acellularity was not confirmed in either decellularisation group. Protein preservation was consistent in both the manually and automatically decellularised groups and between each individual aorta. Elimination of GAL was not achieved. Repeatable automatic decellularisation of porcine aortae is feasible using a Triton X-100-sodium deoxycholate protocol. Protein preservation was satisfactory; however, gold standard thresholds for permissible residual DNA levels were not achieved. Future research will focus on addressing this issue by optimisation of the existing protocol for thick tissues. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

A novel sax-stent method in treatment of ascending aorta and aortic arch aneurysms evaluated by finite element simulations.

PubMed

Arokiaraj, M C; De Beule, M; De Santis, G

2017-02-01

A novel stent method to simplify treatment of proximal ascending aorta and aortic arch aneurysms was developed and investigated by finite element analysis. Therapy of ascending aortic and aortic arch aneurysms is difficult and challenging and is associated with various complications. A 55mm wide×120mm long stent was designed without the stent graft and the stent was deployed by an endovascular method in a virtual patient-specific aneurysm model. The stress-strain analysis and deployment characteristics were performed in a finite element analysis using the Abaqus software. The stent, when embedded in the aortic wall, significantly reduced aortic wall stresses, while preserving the side coronary ostia and side branches in the aortic arch. When tissue growth was modeled computationally over the stent struts the wall stresses in aorta was reduced. This effect became more pronounced when increasing the thickness of the tissue growth. There were no abnormal stresses in the aorta, coronary ostium and at the origin of aortic branches. The stent reduced aneurysm expansion cause by hypertensive condition from 2mm without stenting to 1.3mm after stenting and embedding. In summary, we uncovered a simple treatment method using a bare nitinol stent without stent graft in the treatment of the proximal aorta and aortic arch aneurysms, which could eventually replace the complex treatment methods for this disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Dilatation of the initially non-aneurysmal ascending aorta after replacement of a bicuspid versus tricuspid aortic valve.

PubMed

Zhang, Jing; Fan, Guangpu; Zhao, Hui; Wang, Xu; Wang, Zhiwei; Zhang, Peide; Wang, Wei

2016-12-01

Objective To compare the aortic diameter after isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with a bicuspid (BAV) or tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) and an initially normal ascending aorta. Methods Patients with an ascending aortic diameter of < 45 mm who had undergone isolated AVR were studied. Ultrasonic cardiographic measurements of the ascending aortic diameter made pre- and postoperatively and follow-up data concerning adverse aortic events and death were analyzed. Results A total of 613 patients were included in this retrospective study; of these, 211 had a BAV and 402 had a TAV. In both groups, the ascending aorta significantly expanded but was non-aneurysmal during follow-up; however, the difference between the two groups was not significant. Cox regression analysis showed no significant effect associated with the presence of a BAV on adverse aortic events or death. Conclusion Dilatation of the ascending aorta was observed after AVR in both groups, but was not more pronounced in patients with a BAV. Long-term follow-up for ascending aortic aneurysm is necessary after AVR in both patients with a BAV and those with a TAV.

Dilatation of the initially non-aneurysmal ascending aorta after replacement of a bicuspid versus tricuspid aortic valve

PubMed Central

Zhang, Jing; Fan, Guangpu; Zhao, Hui; Wang, Xu; Wang, Zhiwei; Zhang, Peide

2016-01-01

Objective To compare the aortic diameter after isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with a bicuspid (BAV) or tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) and an initially normal ascending aorta. Methods Patients with an ascending aortic diameter of < 45 mm who had undergone isolated AVR were studied. Ultrasonic cardiographic measurements of the ascending aortic diameter made pre- and postoperatively and follow-up data concerning adverse aortic events and death were analyzed. Results A total of 613 patients were included in this retrospective study; of these, 211 had a BAV and 402 had a TAV. In both groups, the ascending aorta significantly expanded but was non-aneurysmal during follow-up; however, the difference between the two groups was not significant. Cox regression analysis showed no significant effect associated with the presence of a BAV on adverse aortic events or death. Conclusion Dilatation of the ascending aorta was observed after AVR in both groups, but was not more pronounced in patients with a BAV. Long-term follow-up for ascending aortic aneurysm is necessary after AVR in both patients with a BAV and those with a TAV. PMID:27484890

Losartan attenuates vascular remodeling of the aorta in spontaneously hypertensive rats and the underlying mechanism.

PubMed

Li, Fangxiong; Shi, Ruizheng; Liao, Meichun; Li, Jianzhe; Li, Shixun; Pan, Wei; Yang, Tianlun; Zhang, Guogang

2010-08-01

To determine the effect of losartan on vascular remodeling and the underlying mechanism in spontaneously hypertensive rats(SHR). SHR of 12 weeks old were given losartan orally [0, 15, 30 mg/(kg.d), n=12]. The tail arterial pressure was measured every week. Eight weeks later, the pathological changes and p22(phox) expression in the thoracic aorta, the activity of catalase (CAT), the contents of H(2)O(2) and Ang II in the plasma were evaluated. Blood pressure was increased in the SHR accompanied by the thickened wall and increased p22(phox) expression in the thoracic aorta. The plasma levels of H(2)O(2) and Ang II were elevated while the CAT level was decreased in the SHR. Administration of losartan reversed the thickened wall and increased the CAT activity concomitantly with the decreased plasma levels of H(2)O(2) and p22(phox) expression in the SHR. The plasma level of Ang II increased after the losartan treatment. Oxidative stress induces the vascular remodeling of the aorta in the SHR. Losartan can reverse the vascular remodeling through down-regulating p22(phox) expression and inhibiting the oxidative stress.

Effects of ultrasound and ultrasound contrast agent on vascular tissue

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Ultrasound (US) imaging can be enhanced using gas-filled microbubble contrast agents. Strong echo signals are induced at the tissue-gas interface following microbubble collapse. Applications include assessment of ventricular function and virtual histology. Aim While ultrasound and US contrast agents are widely used, their impact on the physiological response of vascular tissue to vasoactive agents has not been investigated in detail. Methods and results In the present study, rat dorsal aortas were treated with US via a clinical imaging transducer in the presence or absence of the US contrast agent, Optison. Aortas treated with both US and Optison were unable to contract in response to phenylephrine or to relax in the presence of acetylcholine. Histology of the arteries was unremarkable. When the treated aortas were stained for endothelial markers, a distinct loss of endothelium was observed. Importantly, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick-end-labeling (TUNEL) staining of treated aortas demonstrated incipient apoptosis in the endothelium. Conclusions Taken together, these ex vivo results suggest that the combination of US and Optison may alter arterial integrity and promote vascular injury; however, the in vivo interaction of Optison and ultrasound remains an open question. PMID:22805356

Pulsatile flow in the aorta of the LVAD supported heart studied using particle image velocimetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moyedi, Zahra

Currently many patients die because of the end-stage heart failure, mainly due to the reduced number of donor heart transplant organs. Studies show that a permanent left ventricular assist device (LVAD), a battery driven pump which is surgically implanted, increased the survival rate of patients with end-stage heart failure and improved considerably their quality of life. The inlet conduit of the LVAD is attached to the left ventricle and the outflow conduit anastomosed to the ascending aorta. The purpose of LVAD support is to help a weakened heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. However LVAD can cause some alterations of the natural blood flow. When your blood comes in contact with something that isn't a natural part of your body blood clots can occur and disrupt blood flow. Aortic valve integrity is vital for optimal support of left ventricular assist LVAD. Due to the existence of high continuous transvalvular pressure on the aortic valve, the opening frequency of the valve is reduced. To prevent the development of aortic insufficiency, aortic valve closure during LVAD implantation has been performed. However, the closed aortic valve reduces wash out of the aortic root, which causes blood stagnation and potential thrombus formation. So for this reason, there is a need to minimize the risks of occurring blood clot, by having more knowledge about the flow structure in the aorta during LVAD use. The current study focuses on measuring the flow field in the aorta of the LVAD assisted heart with two different types of aortic valve (Flat and Finned) using the SDSU cardiac simulator. The pulsatile pump that mimics the natural pulsing action of the heart also added to the system. The flow field is visualized using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV). Furthermore, The fluid mechanics of aorta has been studied when LVAD conduit attached to two different locations (proximal and distal to the aortic valve) with pump speeds of 8,000 to 10,000 revolutions per minute (RPM). As LVAD speed increases, the velocity of the defined area (close to the proximal anastomosis) increases linearly but inversely the stagnation index decreases. We observed that with Finned valve attachment, the stagnation value is lower than the flat valve so the results suggest that D1 valve has lower risk of thrombosis close to the aortic valve.

What Is a Stent?

MedlinePlus

... the artery and keep it open. For the Aorta in the Abdomen or Chest The aorta is a major artery that carries oxygen-rich ... the abdomen. Over time, some areas of the aorta's walls can weaken. These weak areas can cause ...

A rare case of acyanotic congenital heart disease, large patent ductus arteriosus with pre-ductal coarctation of descending thoracic aorta with patent ductus arteriosus closure and extra anatomical bypass grafting.

PubMed

Wani, Zara; Tiwari, Deepak; Gehlot, Rajeev; Kumar, Deepak; Chhabra, Sushil; Sharma, Meenaxi

2017-01-01

We report a case of 18-year-old female patient with large patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)-preductal coarctation of descending thoracic aorta. She underwent large PDA closure with a prosthetic graft from ascending aorta to descending thoracic aorta by mid-sternotomy on cardiopulmonary bypass machine under total hypothermic circulatory arrest.

[Application of a tape-like bandage for the ascending aorta in its poststenotic dilation and correction of the aortal valve stenosis].

PubMed

Popov, V V; Bol'shak, A A

2014-06-01

The aortal valve prosthesis in combination with a tape-like bandage of ascending aorta application was performed in 106 patients, suffering a failure with predominance of the aortal valve stenosis in conjunction with the ascending aorta poststenotic dilation, in a 2005 - 2014 yrs period in the clinic. The hospital lethality have constituted 0.9%. In accordance to echocardiography, the ascending aorta diameter preoperatively have constituted (48.7 +/- 1.4) mm at average, before discharge from the hospital--(40.1 +/- 1.2) mm, in late follow-up period--(41.3 +/- 1.2) mm. It is expedient to recommend the original method of a tape-like bandage of ascending aorta from the base of noncoronary sinus in the aortal sinuses dilation (45 mm and more) in combination with the aortal valve prosthesis in poststenotic dilation of ascending aorta.

Full blown cardiovascular syphilis with aneurysm of the innominate artery.

PubMed

Roberts, William Clifford; Lensing, Forrester Dubus; Kourlis, Harry; Ko, Jong Mi; Newberry, Jonathan Warren; Smerud, Michael John; Burton, Elizabeth C; Hebeler, Robert Frederick

2009-12-01

The investigators report the case of a 44-year-old man who presented acutely and was found to have saccular aneurysm of the innominate artery, narrowed or totally occluded aortic arch arteries, and marked thickening of the thoracic aorta except for the wall behind the sinuses of Valsalva. The abdominal aorta was entirely normal. Results of the serologic test for syphilis were strongly positive. Because cardiovascular syphilis appears to be a disease that affects the vasa vasora and because these channels are limited to the thoracic aorta, the abdominal aorta is uninvolved, as demonstrated so nicely in the patient described in this case report. Because most patients with cardiovascular syphilis are much older than the patient described, it is unusual to see a perfectly normal abdominal aorta, as in the present patient. In conclusion, syphilis producing aneurysm of the innominate artery is unusual but is always associated with syphilitic involvement of the thoracic aorta.

Vasodilator effects and putative guanylyl cyclase stimulation by 2-nitro-1-phenylethanone and 2-nitro-2-phenyl-propane-1,3-diol on rat aorta.

PubMed

Vasconcelos, Thiago Brasileiro de; Ribeiro-Filho, Helder Veras; Lahlou, Saad; Pereira, José Geraldo de Carvalho; Oliveira, Paulo Sérgio Lopes de; Magalhães, Pedro Jorge Caldas

2018-07-05

Compounds containing a nitro group may reveal vasodilator properties. Several nitro compounds have a NO 2 group in a short aliphatic chain connected to an aromatic group. In this study, we evaluated in rat aorta the effects of two nitro compounds, with emphasis on a putative recruitment of the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) pathway to induce vasodilation. Isolated aortic rings were obtained from male Wistar rats to compare the effects induced by 2-nitro-1-phenylethanone (NPeth) or 2-nitro-2-phenyl-propane-1,3-diol (NPprop). In aortic preparations contracted with phenylephrine or KCl, NPeth and NPprop induced vasorelaxant effects that did not depend on the integrity of vascular endothelium. NPeth had a lesser vasorelaxant efficacy than NPprop and only the NPprop effects were inhibited by pretreatment with the sGC inhibitors, 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) or methylene blue. In an ODQ-preventable manner, NPprop inhibited the contractile component of the phenylephrine-induced response mediated by intracellular Ca 2+ release or by extracellular Ca 2+ recruitment through receptor- or voltage-operated Ca 2+ channels. In contrast, NPprop was inert against the transient contraction induced by caffeine in Ca 2+ -free medium. In an ODQ-dependent manner, NPprop inhibited the contraction induced by the protein kinase C activator phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate or by the tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor sodium orthovanadate. In silico docking analysis of a sGC homologous protein revealed preferential site for NPprop. In conclusion, the nitro compounds NPeth and NPprop induced vasorelaxation in rat aortic rings. Aliphatic chain substituents selectively interfered in the ability of these compounds to induce vasorelaxant effects, and only NPprop relaxed aortic rings via a sGC pathway. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of the efficacy of monthly oral administration of afoxolaner plus milbemycin oxime (NexGard Spectra(®), Merial) in the prevention of adult Spirocerca lupi establishment in experimentally infected dogs.

PubMed

Beugnet, Frederic; Crafford, Dionne; de Vos, Christa; Kok, Dawid; Larsen, Diane; Fourie, Josephus

2016-08-15

The nematode Spirocerca lupi (Rudolphi, 1809) is widely distributed but mostly occurs sporadically with stable populations only in certain geographic areas. This helminth mainly infects dogs and wild canids. Primary pathology relates to migration of third stage larvae (L3) damaging the thoracic aorta and establishment of adults in nodules in the oesophagus. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of milbemycin oxime in combination with afoxolaner (NexGard Spectra(®), Merial), administered monthly, in preventing establishment of adult worms after experimental infection. Two groups consisting of eight animals each were experimentally infected with 15 L3 on Days -28, -14 and -2, respectively (45 L3 per animal in total). Group 1 dogs served as untreated (negative) control, whereas animals in group 2 were treated with NexGard Spectra(®) at a minimum dose of 0.5mg/kg milbemycin oxime on Day 0 and from then onwards every 28 days up to Day 140 (six treatment occasions). Endoscopy was performed on Day 112 and for some animals also Day 140. Necropsy for worm recovery and nodule/lesion scoring was performed on Day 168. All eight animals in the control group (group 1) presented with 1-3 nodules and worm counts ranging from 9 to 41. Six animals in the NexGard Spectra(®) group presented with 1-4 nodules and worm counts ranging from 1 to 5. Significantly (p<0.05) fewer worms were collected from treated animals in the treated group (geometric mean 1.7) versus the negative control group (geometric mean 22.0) with 92.3% efficacy calculated. There was no significant (p>0.05) difference between groups with reference to number of nodules in the oesophagus. However, nodules in the control group were significantly (p<0.05) larger than those in the treated group. Number and size of lesions in the dorsal aorta did not differ statistically between groups 1 and 2. Because NexGard Spectra(®) was administered 28 days after onset of inoculation, migrating and developing L3 caused damage to the aorta wall of animals in the treated group. Milbemycin oxime (administered as NexGard Spectra(®)) demonstrated effectiveness in reducing infection with adult Spirocerca lupi worms in the oesophagus. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparative effects of vitamin K2 and vitamin E on experimental arteriosclerosis.

PubMed

Seyama, Y; Hayashi, M; Takegami, H; Usami, E

1999-01-01

The comparative effects of vitamin K2 and vitamin E on aortic calcium (Ca) and inorganic phosphorus (P) levels in the aorta and the elastin fraction (fr.) were investigated in male rats after experimental arteriosclerosis was induced by vitamin D2 with atherogenic diet. Both vitamin K2 (100 mg/kg b.w.) and vitamin E (40 mg/kg b.w.) inhibited the increase of Ca and P in the aorta and the elastin fr. from the arteriosclerotic rats. Vitamin K2 (50 mg/kg b.w.) also suppressed the deposition of Ca and P in the aorta, but there was no change due to vitamin K3 or geranylgeraniol (side chain of vitamin K2) administration. Both vitamin K2 and vitamin E showed lipid radical scavenging activity in the in vitro experiment. However, neither vitamin K3 nor geranylgeraniol exhibited anti-arteriosclerotic or radical scavenging activity under the above experimental conditions. It is suggested that vitamin K2 and vitamin E promoted an antiarteriosclerotic effect by radical scavenging activity. These actions of vitamin K2 are required in the structure of 2-methylnaphtoquinone and its side chain (geranylgeraniol).

Impaired Collagen Biosynthesis and Cross‐linking in Aorta of Patients With Bicuspid Aortic Valve

PubMed Central

Wågsäter, Dick; Paloschi, Valentina; Hanemaaijer, Roeland; Hultenby, Kjell; Bank, Ruud A.; Franco‐Cereceda, Anders; Lindeman, Jan H. N.; Eriksson, Per

2013-01-01

Background Patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) have an increased risk of developing ascending aortic aneurysm. In the present study, collagen homeostasis in nondilated and dilated aorta segments from patients with BAV was studied, with normal and dilated aortas from tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) patients as reference. Methods and Results Ascending aortas from 56 patients were used for biochemical and morphological analyses of collagen. mRNA expression was analyzed in 109 patients. Collagen turnover rates were similar in nondilated and dilated aortas of BAV patients, showing that aneurysmal formation in BAV is, in contrast to TAV, not associated with an increased collagen turnover. However, BAV in general was associated with an increased aortic collagen turnover compared with nondilated aortas of TAV patients. Importantly, the ratio of hydroxylysyl pyridinoline (HP) to lysyl pyridinoline (LP), 2 distinct forms of collagen cross‐linking, was lower in dilated aortas from patients with BAV, which suggests that BAV is associated with a defect in the posttranslational collagen modification. This suggests a deficiency at the level of lysyl hydroxylase (PLOD1), which was confirmed by mRNA and protein analyses that showed reduced PLOD1 expression but normal lysyl oxidase expression in dilated aortas from patients with BAV. This suggests that impaired collagen cross‐linking in BAV patients may be attributed to changes in the expression and/or activity of PLOD1. Conclusions Our results demonstrate an impaired biosynthesis and posttranslational modification of collagen in aortas of patients with BAV, which may explain the increased aortic aneurysm formation in BAV patients. PMID:23525417

Aortic valve surgery - open

MedlinePlus

... and into a large blood vessel called the aorta. The aortic valve separates the heart and aorta. The aortic valve opens so blood can flow ... to be able to see your heart and aorta. You may need to be connected to a ...

Endovascular Treatment of Distal Aortic Arch Aneurysm Associated with Coarctation of Aorta in a Jehovah's Witness

PubMed Central

Mannacio, Vito A.; Di Tommaso, Ettorino; Pinna, Giovanni B.; Fontana, Immacolata; Iannelli, Gabriele

2017-01-01

Late aneurysm formation in the proximal aorta or distal aortic arch is a recognized sequela of untreated stenosis of the aortic isthmus and is associated with substantial risk of aortic rupture. We describe the case of a 44-year-old man with untreated coarctation of the aorta who presented with a prestenotic dissecting thoracic aortic aneurysm. He declined surgery because he was a Jehovah's Witness. Instead, we performed emergency endovascular aortic repair in which 2 stent-grafts were placed in the descending aorta. Our experience suggests that this procedure is a useful and safe alternative to open surgery in patients who have aneurysms associated with coarctation of the aorta. PMID:29276439

Monte Carlo simulation of aorta autofluorescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuznetsova, A. A.; Pushkareva, A. E.

2016-08-01

Results of numerical simulation of autofluorescence of the aorta by the method of Monte Carlo are reported. Two states of the aorta, normal and with atherosclerotic lesions, are studied. A model of the studied tissue is developed on the basis of information about optical, morphological, and physico-chemical properties. It is shown that the data obtained by numerical Monte Carlo simulation are in good agreement with experimental results indicating adequacy of the developed model of the aorta autofluorescence.

Variations in local elastic modulus along the length of the aorta as observed by use of a scanning haptic microscope (SHM).

PubMed

Moriwaki, Takeshi; Oie, Tomonori; Takamizawa, Keiichi; Murayama, Yoshinobu; Fukuda, Toru; Omata, Sadao; Kanda, Keiichi; Nakayama, Yasuhide

2011-12-01

Variations in microscopic elastic structures along the entire length of canine aorta were evaluated by use of a scanning haptic microscope (SHM). The total aorta from the aortic arch to the abdominal aorta was divided into 6 approximately equal segments. After embedding the aorta in agar, it was cut into horizontal circumferential segments to obtain disk-like agar portions containing ring-like samples of aorta with flat surfaces (thickness, approximately 1 mm). The elastic modulus and topography of the samples under no-load conditions were simultaneously measured along the entire thickness of the wall by SHM by using a probe with a diameter of 5 μm and a spatial resolution of 2 μm at a rate of 0.3 s/point. The elastic modulus of the wall was the highest on the side of the luminal surface and decreased gradually toward the adventitial side. This tendency was similar to that of the change in the elastin fiber content. During the evaluation of the mid-portion of each tunica media segment, the highest elastic modulus (40.8 ± 3.5 kPa) was identified at the thoracic section of the aorta that had the highest density of elastic fibers. Under no-load conditions, portions of the aorta with high elastin density have a high elastic modulus.

Pressure waves in the aorta during isolated abdominal belt loading: the magnitude, phasing, and attenuation.

PubMed

Arregui-Dalmases, C; Del Pozo, E; Stacey, S; Kindig, M; Lessley, D; Lopez-Valdes, F; Forman, J; Kent, R

2011-07-01

While rupture of the aorta is a leading cause of sudden death following motor vehicle crashes, the specific mechanism that causes this injury is not currently well understood. Aortic ruptures occurring in the field are likely due to a complex combination of contributing factors such as acceleration, compression of the chest, and increased pressure within the aorta. The objective of the current study was to investigate one of these factors in more detail than has been done previously; specifically, to investigate the in situ intra-aortic pressure generated during isolated belt loading to the abdomen. Ten juvenile swine were subjected to dynamic belt loads applied to the abdomen. Intraaortic pressure was measured at multiple locations to assess the magnitude and propagation of the resulting blood pressure wave. The greatest average peak pressure (113.6 +/- 43.5 kPa) was measured in the abdominal aorta. Pressures measured in the thoracic aorta and aortic arch were 70 per cent and 50 per cent, respectively, that measured in the abdominal aorta. No macroscopic aortic trauma was observed. To the authors' knowledge the present study is the first one to document the presence, propagation, and attenuation of a transient pressure wave in the aorta generated by abdominal belt loading. The superiorly moving wave is sufficient to generate hydrostatic and intimal shear stress in the aorta, possibly contributing to the hypothesized mechanisms of traumatic aortic rupture.

Turner Syndrome in Girls Presenting with Coarctation of the Aorta.

PubMed

Eckhauser, Aaron; South, Sarah T; Meyers, Lindsay; Bleyl, Steven B; Botto, Lorenzo D

2015-11-01

To evaluate the frequency of Turner syndrome in a population-based, statewide cohort of girls with coarctation of the aorta. The Utah Birth Defects Network was used to ascertain a cohort of girls between 1997 and 2011 with coarctation of the aorta. Livebirths with isolated coarctation of the aorta or transverse arch hypoplasia were included and patients with complex congenital heart disease not usually seen in Turner syndrome were excluded. Of 244 girls with coarctation of the aorta, 77 patients were excluded, leaving a cohort of 167 girls; 86 patients (51%) had chromosomal studies and 21 (12.6%) were diagnosed with Turner syndrome. All patients were diagnosed within the first 4 months of life and 5 (24%) were diagnosed prenatally. Fifteen patients (71%) had Turner syndrome-related findings in addition to coarctation of the aorta. Girls with mosaicism were less likely to have Turner syndrome-associated findings (3/6 mosaic girls compared with 12/17 girls with non-mosaic 45,X). Twelve girls (57%) diagnosed with Turner syndrome also had a bicommissural aortic valve. At least 12.6% of girls born with coarctation of the aorta have karyotype-confirmed Turner syndrome. Such a high frequency, combined with the clinical benefits of an early diagnosis, supports genetic screening for Turner syndrome in girls presenting with coarctation of the aorta. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessment of the accuracy of AortaScan for detection of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

PubMed

Abbas, A; Smith, A; Cecelja, M; Waltham, M

2012-02-01

AortaScan AMI 9700 is a portable 3D ultrasound device that automatically measures the maximum diameter of the abdominal aorta without the need for a trained sonographer. It is designed to rapidly diagnose or exclude an AAA and may have particular use in screening programs. Our objective was to determine its accuracy to detect AAA. Subjects from our AAA screening and surveillance programs were examined. The aorta was scanned using the AortaScan and computed tomography (CT). Ninety-one subjects underwent imaging (44 AAA on conventional ultrasound surveillance and 47 controls). The largest measurement obtained by AortaScan was compared against the CT-aortic measurement. The mean aortic diameter was 2.8 cm. The CT scan confirmed the diagnosis of AAA in 43 subjects. There was one false positive measurement on conventional ultrasound. AortaScan missed the diagnosis of AAA in eight subjects. There were thirteen false positive measurements. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 81%, 72%, 72% and 81% respectively. A device to detect AAA without the need for a trained operator would have potential in a community-based screening programme. The AortaScan, however, lacks adequate sensitivity and significant technical improvement is necessary before it could be considered a replacement for trained screening personnel. Copyright © 2011 European Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

77 FR 48985 - Notice of Meeting of the ICD-9-CM Coordination and Maintenance Committee

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-15

... Topics: ICD-10 Implementation Announcements Expansion of Thoracic Aorta Body Part Under Heart and Great... from thoracic aorta to abdominal aorta) ICD-10 MS-DRGs ICD-10 HAC Translations ICD-10 MCE Translations...

Diagnostic performance of focused cardiac ultrasound performed by emergency physicians for the assessment of ascending aorta dilation and aneurysm.

PubMed

Nazerian, Peiman; Vanni, Simone; Morello, Fulvio; Castelli, Matteo; Ottaviani, Maddalena; Casula, Claudia; Petrioli, Alessandra; Bartolucci, Maurizio; Grifoni, Stefano

2015-05-01

The diagnostic performance of transthoracic focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) performed by emergency physicians (EP) to estimate ascending aorta dimensions in the acute setting has not been prospectively studied. The diagnostic accuracy and the interobserver variability of EP-performed FoCUS were investigated to estimate thoracic aortic dilation and aneurysm compared with the results of computed tomography angiography (CTA). This was a prospective single-center cohort study of a convenience sample of patients who underwent CTA in the emergency department for suspected aortic pathology. FoCUS was performed before CTA, and the maximum ascending aorta diameter evaluated in parasternal long-axis view. Aorta diameter < 40 mm by visual estimation or by diameter measurement was considered normal. Measurements were recorded in all patients with aorta diameter ≥ 40 mm. Diagnostic accuracy of FoCUS for detection of aortic dilation (diameter ≥ 40 mm) and aneurysm (diameter ≥ 45 mm) were calculated considering the CTA result as reference standard. In a subgroup of patients, a second EP-sonographer performed FoCUS to evaluate interobserver agreement for the diagnosis of ascending aorta dilation. A total of 140 patients were enrolled in the study. Ascending aorta dilation and aneurysm were detected with FoCUS in 50 (35.7%) and in 27 (17.8%) patients, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of FoCUS were 78.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 65.6% to 88.4%) and 92.9% (95% CI = 85.1% to 97.3%), respectively, for ascending aorta dilation and 64.7% (95% CI = 46.5% to 80.2%) and 95.3% (95% CI = 89.3% to 98.4%), respectively, for ascending aorta aneurysm. Interobserver agreement of FoCUS was k = 0.82. FoCUS performed by EP is specific for ascending aorta dilation and aneurysm when compared to CTA and appears a reproducible technique. © 2015 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.

Suppressive effects of dietary EPA-rich fish oil on the degradation of elastin fibers in the aortic wall in nicotine-administered mice.

PubMed

Kugo, Hirona; Zaima, Nobuhiro; Onozato, Megumi; Miyamoto, Chie; Hashimoto, Keisuke; Yanagimoto, Kenichi; Moriyama, Tatsuya

2017-08-01

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a vascular disease involving gradual dilation of the abdominal aorta. Recent studies suggest that nicotine, which is a primary component in cigarette smoke, is closely associated with the development and rupture of an AAA. Nicotine accelerates AAA development through the weakening of the vascular wall by increasing oxidative stress and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 expression. However, little is known about preventing the AAA induced by nicotine. A non-surgical means of preventing the weakening of the vascular wall before the onset of AAA by functional food factors would be a valuable option over surgery. Fish oil is a functional food that is rich in n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that have an anti-inflammatory effect. In this study, we evaluated the effect of dietary fish oil on the weakening of the aortic wall due to nicotine administration in a mouse model. Histological analysis showed that the dietary fish oil suppressed the degradation of elastin fibers in the nicotine-administered mice. Additionally, the dietary fish oil suppressed the protein level of MMP-12, macrophage infiltration, and the oxidative stress in the vascular wall. These results suggest that fish oil could suppress the weakening of the vascular wall by suppressing the elastin fiber degradation caused by nicotine. By suppressing the nicotine induced weakening of the vascular wall, fish oil might help prevent the development of AAA.

Role of selective cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase inhibition in the myorelaxant actions of M&B 22,948, MY-5445, vinpocetine and 1-methyl-3-isobutyl-8-(methylamino)xanthine.

PubMed Central

Souness, J. E.; Brazdil, R.; Diocee, B. K.; Jordan, R.

1989-01-01

1. The mechanism by which M&B 22,948, MY-5445, vinpocetine and 1-methyl-3-isobutyl-8-(methylamino)xanthine (MIMAX), which have been described as selective cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, relax rat aorta was investigated. 2. Three cyclic nucleotide PDEs were identified in the soluble fraction of rat aorta; a Ca2+-insensitive form exhibiting substrate selectivity for cyclic GMP (cGMP PDE), a Ca2+/calmodulin-stimulated form which also preferentially hydrolyzed cyclic GMP (Ca2+ PDE), and a form demonstrating substrate selectivity for cyclic AMP (cAMP PDE). 3. M&B 22,948 and MIMAX inhibited cGMP PDE (Ki = 0.16 microM and 0.43 microM, respectively) and Ca2+ PDE (Ki = 9.9 microM and 0.55 microM, respectively), but exhibited weak activity against cAMP PDE (Ki = 249 microM and 42 microM, respectively). MY-5445 selectivity inhibited cGMP PDE (Ki = 1.3 microM) and vinpocetine selectively inhibited Ca2+ PDE (Ki = 14 microM). 4. M&B 22,948 and MIMAX induced dose-dependent increases in the accumulation of cyclic GMP, but not cyclic AMP, in rat aorta pieces. These effects were greatly reduced by endothelial denudation and by methylene blue (5 microM) which blocks the actions of endothelium-derived relaxant factor. MY-5445 and vinpocetine had no effect on rat aorta cyclic GMP or cyclic AMP accumulation. 5. All four compounds caused dose-related relaxation of 5-hydroxytryptamine (10 microM) contracted, endothelium-intact rat aorta, the effects of M&B 22,948 and MIMAX being greatly reduced by methylene blue (5 microM). Methylene blue also caused 10 fold and 100 fold rightward shifts in the dose-response curves of MY-5445 and vinpocetine, respectively. 6. The results are consistent with the smooth muscle relaxant actions of M&B 22,948 and MIMAX, but not vinpocetine and MY-5445, being mediated through a mechanism involving inhibition of cyclic GMP hydrolysis. PMID:2480168

N-Acetylcysteine-induced vasodilatation is modulated by KATP channels, Na+/K+-ATPase activity and intracellular calcium concentration: An in vitro study.

PubMed

Vezir, Özden; Çömelekoğlu, Ülkü; Sucu, Nehir; Yalın, Ali Erdinç; Yılmaz, Şakir Necat; Yalın, Serap; Söğüt, Fatma; Yaman, Selma; Kibar, Kezban; Akkapulu, Merih; Koç, Meryem İlkay; Seçer, Didem

2017-08-01

In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of ATP-sensitive potassium (K ATP ) channel, Na + /K + -ATPase activity, and intracellular calcium levels on the vasodilatory effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in thoracic aorta by using electrophysiological and molecular techniques. Rat thoracic aorta ring preparations and cultured thoracic aorta cells were divided into four groups as control, 2mM NAC, 5mM NAC, and 10mM NAC. Thoracic aorta rings were isolated from rats for measurements of relaxation responses and Na + /K + -ATPase activity. In the cultured thoracic aorta cells, we measured the currents of K ATP channel, the concentration of intracellular calcium and mRNA expression level of K ATP channel subunits (KCNJ8, KCNJ11, ABCC8 and ABCC9). The relaxation rate significantly increased in all NAC groups compared to control. Similarly, Na + /K + - ATPase activity also significantly decreased in NAC groups. Outward K ATP channel current significantly increased in all NAC groups compared to the control group. Intracellular calcium concentration decreased significantly in all groups with compared control. mRNA expression level of ABCC8 subunit significantly increased in all NAC groups compared to the control group. Pearson correlation analysis showed that relaxation rate was significantly associated with K ATP current, intracellular calcium concentration, Na + /K + -ATPase activity and mRNA expression level of ABCC8 subunit. Our findings suggest that NAC relaxes vascular smooth muscle cells through a direct effect on K ATP channels, by increasing outward K+ flux, partly by increasing mRNA expression of K ATP subunit ABCC8, by decreasing in intracellular calcium and by decreasing in Na + /K + -ATPase activity. Copyright © 2017 Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved.

[Coarctation of the descending aorta. A rare form of connatal aortic stenosis].

PubMed

Stammwitz, E; Schöttler, M; Brix, F; Poser, H L; Langkau, G; Yükseltan, I

1983-07-01

A clinical diagnosis of a coarctation of the aorta was made in a 17-year-old female hypertensive patient. Angiography revealed an atypical stenosis of the descending aorta which was surgically corrected. The causes of aortic stenoses are discussed.

Clinical Study of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) for Severe Pelvic Fracture and Intra Abdominal Hemorrhagic Shock using Continuous Vital Signs

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-15-1-0025 TITLE: Clinical Study of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) for Severe Pelvic...Intra-Abdominal Hemorrhagic Shock 5b. GRANT NUMBER W81XWH-15-1-0025 Clinical Study of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta ...sites. Resuscitative balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) has been clinically demonstrated to stop bleeding below the diaphragm. It has the potential

Case report: Open replacement of incomplete semi-circular traumatic ruptures of the ascending and descending aorta.

PubMed

Mytsyk, Miroslawa; Grapow, Martin T R; Shahinian, Jasmin; Maurer, Markus; Gurke, Lorenz; Eckstein, Friedrich S

2016-07-16

An incomplete traumatic rupture of the ascending aorta is a rare but life-threatening condition. Hence, the assessment of the extent of the injury prior to therapy is crucial. We report a case of a 50-year-old male with traumatic aortic rupture who underwent emergency surgery after the evaluation of computed tomography scan (CT-scan). The surgical treatment involved replacement of the ascending aorta and stent implantation in descending aorta due to its covered rupture.

Mechanisms underlying sodium nitroprusside-induced tolerance in the mouse aorta: Role of ROS and cyclooxygenase-derived prostanoids.

PubMed

Diniz, Mariana C; Olivon, Vania C; Tavares, Lívia D; Simplicio, Janaina A; Gonzaga, Natália A; de Souza, Daniele G; Bendhack, Lusiane M; Tirapelli, Carlos R; Bonaventura, Daniella

2017-05-01

To determine the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced tolerance. Additionally, we evaluated the role of ROS on NF-κB activation and pro-inflammatory cytokines production during SNP-induced tolerance. To induce in vitro tolerance, endothelium-intact or -denuded aortic rings isolated from male Balb-c mice were incubated for 15, 30, 45 or 60min with SNP (10nmol/L). Tolerance to SNP was observed after incubation of endothelium-denuded, but not endothelium-intact aortas for 60min with this inorganic nitrate. Pre-incubation of denuded rings with tiron (superoxide anion (O 2 - ) scavenger), and the NADPH oxidase inhibitors apocynin and atorvastatin reversed SNP-induced tolerance. l-NAME (non-selective NOS inhibitor) and l-arginine (NOS substrate) also prevented SNP-induced tolerance. Similarly, ibuprofen (non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor), nimesulide (selective COX-2 inhibitor), AH6809 (prostaglandin PGF 2 α receptor antagonist) or SQ29584 [PGH 2 /thromboxane TXA 2 receptor antagonist] reversed SNP-induced tolerance. Increased ROS generation was detected in tolerant arteries and both tiron and atorvastatin reversed this response. Tiron prevented tolerance-induced increase on O 2 - and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) levels. The increase onp65/NF-κB expression and TNF-α production in tolerant arteries was prevented by tiron. The major new finding of our study is that SNP-induced tolerance is mediated by NADPH-oxidase derived ROS and vasoconstrictor prostanoids derived from COX-2, which are capable of reducing the vasorelaxation induced by SNP. Additionally, we found that ROS mediate the activation of NF-κB and the production of TNF-α in tolerant arteries. These findings identify putative molecular mechanisms whereby SNP induces tolerance in the vasculature. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer rupture in the ascending aorta with hemopericardium: a case report.

PubMed

Liu, Yuan-Hao; Ke, Hung-Yen; Lin, Yi-Chang; Tsai, Chien-Sung

2016-07-11

Acute aortic syndrome, including classic aortic dissection, intramural aortic hematoma, and penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer (PAU), is a term used to describe a group of conditions with similar clinical symptoms, but with different pathophysiological mechanisms. PAU is a lesion that penetrates the internal elastic lamina through the media. It is usually located in the descending aorta and rarely observed in the ascending aorta. A 76-year-old man with a history of essential hypertension was brought to the emergency department (ED) because of a sudden-onset chest pain at rest. He had not been taking his medication as ordered. His vital signs in the ED were a blood pressure of 82/60 mmHg, heart rate of 158 beats per min, respiratory rate of 22 breaths per min, and a body temperature of 37.2 °C. An electrocardiogram did not show an ST segment elevation, and cardiac enzymes were within normal limits. No widening mediastinum was found on chest radiography, but a large pericardial effusion with an impending cardiac tamponade was revealed on echocardiography. The diagnosis of PAU rupture in the ascending aorta with hemopericardium was made with chest computed tomography. An emergent sternotomy and ascending aorta reconstruction were performed. A ruptured ulcerative plaque through the intima to the adventitia without flap dissection in the ascending aorta was confirmed. The patient was discharged 18 days after the operation. Although PAU in the ascending aorta is uncommon, it is commonly lethal when it ruptures. With the current advances in endovascular techniques and devices, endovascular repair of PAU in the ascending aorta is currently recommended only for high-risk patients unsuitable for open repair. However, we anticipate that endovascular repair may become feasible in patients with PAU in the ascending aorta in the future.

Automatic identification of origins of left and right coronary arteries in CT angiography for coronary arterial tree tracking and plaque detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Chuan; Chan, Heang-Ping; Chightai, Aamer; Wei, Jun; Hadjiiski, Lubomir M.; Agarwal, Prachi; Kuriakose, Jean W.; Kazerooni, Ella A.

2013-03-01

Automatic tracking and segmentation of the coronary arterial tree is the basic step for computer-aided analysis of coronary disease. The goal of this study is to develop an automated method to identify the origins of the left coronary artery (LCA) and right coronary artery (RCA) as the seed points for the tracking of the coronary arterial trees. The heart region and the contrast-filled structures in the heart region are first extracted using morphological operations and EM estimation. To identify the ascending aorta, we developed a new multiscale aorta search method (MAS) method in which the aorta is identified based on a-priori knowledge of its circular shape. Because the shape of the ascending aorta in the cCTA axial view is roughly a circle but its size can vary over a wide range for different patients, multiscale circularshape priors are used to search for the best matching circular object in each CT slice, guided by the Hausdorff distance (HD) as the matching indicator. The location of the aorta is identified by finding the minimum HD in the heart region over the set of multiscale circular priors. An adaptive region growing method is then used to extend the above initially identified aorta down to the aortic valves. The origins at the aortic sinus are finally identified by a morphological gray level top-hat operation applied to the region-grown aorta with morphological structuring element designed for coronary arteries. For the 40 test cases, the aorta was correctly identified in 38 cases (95%). The aorta can be grown to the aortic root in 36 cases, and 36 LCA origins and 34 RCA origins can be identified within 10 mm of the locations marked by radiologists.

In vitro study on the effects of some selected agonists and antagonists of alpha(1)-adrenergic receptors on the contractility of the aneurysmally-changed aortic smooth muscle in humans.

PubMed

Gnus, J; Czerski, A; Ferenc, S; Zawadzki, W; Witkiewicz, W; Hauzer, W; Rusiecka, A; Bujok, J

2012-02-01

The study included 18 sections of the aneurysmally-changed abdominal aortas, obtained from patients of the Provincial Specialist Hospital in Wroclaw and 18 sections of normal abdominal aortas obtained from swine. The collected samples were placed horizontally in the incubation chamber. Changes in their transverse section area were registered. They were stretched to a tension of 5 mN. Krebs-Henseleit buffer was used as the incubatory environment. Incubation of the sections was performed at a temperature of 37°C, in the gaseous mixture of oxygen and carbon dioxide used in the following proportion: 95% of O(2) and 5% of CO(2). Contractions of the aorta were registered with isotonic transducers (Letica Scientific Instruments). In the studies, we examined the influence of α(1)-adrenergic receptors (and their subtypes α(1A), α(1B), α(1D)) on the contractility of the aortic muscle in humans and swine by their stimulation or inhibition with some selected agonists or antagonists. This time, it was shown that the stimulation of α(1)-adrenergic receptors leads to contractions of the human and swine aortic muscle; the observed increase in the muscle tone may follow from the stimulation of all subtypes of alpha-1 receptor (α(1A), α(1B), α(1D)). All three subtypes of 1-adrenergic receptor are engaged in vasoconstriction, especially of α(1A) and α(1D) subtypes; the α(1B) subtype is less significant for aortic contractility. The contractile response of the aneurysmally-changed abdominal aorta in humans to agonists of α-adrenergic receptors was significantly less intense than that of the normal porcine aorta. It can be concluded that aneurysms influence the contractile response of the aorta.

Accuracy of patient recall of preoperative symptom severity (angina and breathlessness) at one year following aorta-coronary artery bypass grafting.

PubMed

Lindsay, Grace M; Niven, Kate A; Brodie, Eric E; Gaw, Allan; Belcher, Philip R

2009-02-01

The accuracy with which patients recall their cardiac symptoms prior to aorta-coronary artery bypass grafting is assessed approximately one year after surgery together with patient-related factors potentially influencing accuracy of recall. This is a novel investigation of patient's rating of preoperative symptom severity before and approximately one year following aorta-coronary artery bypass grafting. Patients undergoing aorta-coronary artery bypass grafting (n = 208) were recruited preoperatively and 177 of these were successfully followed up at 16.4 (SD 2.1) months after surgery and asked to describe current and recalled preoperative symptoms using a 15-point numerical scale. Accuracy of recall was measured and correlated (Pearson's correlation) with current and past symptoms, health-related quality of life and coronary artery disease risk factors. Hypothesis tests used Student's t-test and the chi-squared test. Respective angina and breathlessness scores were recalled accurately by 16.9% and 14.1% while 59% and 58% were inaccurate by more than one point. Although the mean preoperative and recalled scores for severity of both angina and breathlessness and were not statistically different, patients who recalled most accurately their preoperative scores had, on average, significantly higher preoperative scores than those with less accurate recall. Patients whose angina and breathlessness symptoms were relieved by operation had significantly better accuracy of recall than patients with greater levels of symptoms postoperatively. Patient's rating of preoperative symptom severity before and one year following aorta-coronary artery bypass grafting was completely accurate in approximately one sixth of patients with similar proportions of the remaining patients overestimating and underestimating symptoms. The extent to which angina and breathlessness was relieved by operation was a significant factor in improving accuracy of recall. Factors associated with accuracy of recall of symptoms provide useful insights for clinicians when interpreting patients' views of the effectiveness of aorta-coronary artery bypass grafting for the relief of symptoms associated with coronary heart disease.

Mathematical modelling of intra-aortic balloon pump.

PubMed

Abdolrazaghi, Mona; Navidbakhsh, Mahdi; Hassani, Kamran

2010-10-01

Ischemic heart diseases now afflict thousands of Iranians and are the major cause of death in many industrialised countries. Mathematical modelling of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) could provide a better understanding of its performance and help to represent blood flow and pressure in systemic arteries before and after inserting the pump. A mathematical modelling of the whole cardiovascular system was formulated using MATLAB software. The block diagram of the model consists of 43 compartments. All the anatomical data was extracted from the physiological references. In the next stage, myocardial infarction (MI) was induced in the model by decreasing the contractility of the left ventricle. The IABP was mathematically modelled and inserted in the model in the thoracic aorta I artery just before the descending aorta. The effects of IABP on MI were studied using the mathematical model. The normal operation of the cardiovascular system was studied firstly. The pressure-time graphs of the ventricles, atriums, aorta, pulmonary system, capillaries and arterioles were obtained. The volume-time curve of the left ventricle was also presented. The pressure-time curves of the left ventricle and thoracic aorta I were obtained for normal, MI, and inserted IABP conditions. Model verification was performed by comparing the simulation results with the clinical observations reported in the literature. IABP can be described by a theoretical model. Our model representing the cardiovascular system is capable of showing the effects of different pathologies such as MI and we have shown that MI effects can be reduced using IABP in accordance with the modelling results. The mathematical model should serve as a useful tool to simulate and better understand cardiovascular operation in normal and pathological conditions.

Low-dose atorvastatin, losartan, and particularly their combination, provide cardiovascular protection in isolated rat heart and aorta.

PubMed

Lunder, Mojca; Ziberna, Lovro; Janić, Miodrag; Jerin, Aleš; Skitek, Milan; Sabovič, Mišo; Drevenšek, Gorazd

2013-03-01

Statins and angiotensin receptor blockers at therapeutic doses have beneficial cardiovascular effects, which can be applied for cardiovascular protection. We explored whether low doses of atorvastatin, losartan, and particularly their combination, possess important pleiotropic vasodilatory effects. Wistar rats were treated daily with low-dose atorvastatin (2 mg/kg, n = 15), low-dose losartan (5 mg/kg, n = 15), their combination (n = 15), or saline (n = 15). After 4, 6, or 8 weeks the animals were anesthetized, blood samples taken, and their hearts and thoracic aortas isolated. Two kinds of experiments were performed: the measurement of coronary flow rate after ischemia/reperfusion myocardial injury and endothelium-dependent relaxation of thoracic aorta. In both models, maximal vasodilation activity was obtained in rats treated for 6 weeks. In the ischemia/reperfusion myocardial injury model, coronary flow increased (atorvastatin or losartan 1.9-fold, P < 0.01; combination 2.4-fold, P < 0.001) compared with controls. In the thoracic aorta model, endothelium-dependent relaxation significantly increased only in the combination group compared with the control group (up to 1.4-fold; P < 0.01). Simultaneously, we detected increased anti-inflammatory activity and increased nitric oxide concentration, but no changes in lipids and blood pressure. In a rat model we showed important vasodilatory activity of low-dose atorvastatin, losartan, and particularly their combination. The effects of the low-dose combination were accompanied by, and probably at least partly achieved by, anti-inflammatory and nitric oxide pathways. Overall, these results could be valuable for the development of new vascular protective strategies focusing on a low-dose regimen of statins and sartans, and particularly their combination.

Myocardial Protective Effects of L-Carnitine on Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Patients With Rheumatic Valvular Heart Disease Undergoing Cardiac Surgery.

PubMed

Li, Ming; Xue, Li; Sun, Haifeng; Xu, Suochun

2016-12-01

The authors used L-carnitine as an ingredient in cardioplegic solution during valve replacement surgery to investigate the protective effect of L-carnitine on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) and its possible mechanism. Prospective, randomized study. A tertiary-care hospital. The study comprised 90 patients undergoing valve replacement under cardiopulmonary bypass. Patients were divided randomly into 3 groups. L-carnitine was added to the crystalloid cardioplegic solution for experimental group 1 (3 g/L) and experimental group 2 (6 g/L), whereas no L-carnitine was used in the control group. The remainder of the treatment was identical for all 3 groups. Serum was collected from each patient 1 hour before the surgery and at 2, 6, 24, and 72 hours after unclamping the aorta, and tissue samples were obtained before cardiac arrest and after unclamping the aorta. The postoperative levels of serum aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, creatine kinase-MB isozyme, and lactic acid dehydrogenase and the apoptotic index were all lower in the 2 experimental groups than those in the control group. In addition, each of the aforementioned serum enzyme levels and the apoptotic index in all 3 groups significantly increased after unclamping the aorta compared with baseline levels taken before surgery. Bcl-2 expression was higher and Bax was lower in the 2 experimental groups compared with those of the control group after unclamping the aorta. However, there was no significant difference in all the postoperative indices between the 2 experimental groups. L-carnitine may reduce cardiopulmonary bypass-induced myocardial apoptosis through modulating the expressions of Bcl-2 and Bax, resulting in a protective effect from MIRI. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of onion extract on endogenous vascular H2S and adrenomedulin in rat atherosclerosis.

PubMed

Li, Wei; Tang, Chaoshu; Jin, Hongfang; Du, Junbao

2011-09-01

This study aimed to explore the effect of onion extract on endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and adrenomedulin (ADM) and on atherosclerotic progression in rats with atherosclerosis (AS). Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control, AS and AS+onion groups. Ultrastructure of aorta and atherosclerotic lesions both in aorta and in coronary artery were detected. Plasma and aortic H2S were detected by using a sulfide- sensitive electrode. Plasma and aortic ADM was determined with radioimmunoassay. Cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE), calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR), receptor activity-modifying protein (RAMP1, RAMP2 and RAMP3) mRNA expressions were analysed. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and NO synthase (NOS) contents in plasma, SOD1, SOD2 and ICAM-1 expressions in aorta were detected. Rats in the AS group showed marked atherosclerotic lesions both in aorta and in coronary artery but decreased aortic H2S production. Decreased plasma and aortic ADM content, but increased levels of aortic CRLR, RAMP2 and RAMP3 mRNAs were observed. Plasma GSH-PX and SOD were reduced but MDA elevated. Plasma ICAM-1 and NO contents and iNOS activity were increased. Onion extract, however, lessened atherosclerotic lesions and increased endogenous aortic H2S production, but decreased plasma ADM content, aortic ADM content and aortic CRLR, RAMP2 and RAMP3 mRNAs. In addition, it increased plasma GSH-PX level and SOD activities but reduced MDA; it decreased inflammatory response but increased plasma eNOS activity and NO content. Onion extract exerted a marked antiatherogenic effect in association with the up-regulation of the endogenous CSE/H2S pathway but down-regulation of the ADM/CRLR family in atherosclerotic rats.

The effects of the putative potassium channel activator WAY-120,491 on 86Rb efflux from the rabbit aorta

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lodge, N.J.; Cohen, R.B.; Havens, C.N.

1991-02-01

WAY-120,491 ((-)-(3S-trans)-2-(3,4-dihydro-3-hydroxy-2,2-dimethyl-6-(trifluoromet hox y)- 2H-1-benzopyran-4-yl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-isoindol-1-one) is a novel antihypertensive agent. We have investigated the effects of this compound on contractile force and 86Rb efflux, using the rabbit aorta, in order to assess its K channel activator properties. K channel blockers and ionic conditions thought to modulate specific K channel types have been used to provide insight into the K channel(s) affected by this compound. WAY-120,491 evoked relaxation of precontracted rabbit aortic rings and increased the rate of 86Rb efflux from strips of rabbit aorta; both effects occurring in a concentration-dependent manner. The WAY-120,491 (1 microM)-induced 86Rb efflux was inhibited bymore » tetraethylammonium (IC50 = 0.38 mM), indicating that the increased efflux was mediated by K channels. Glyburide completely blocked the WAY-120,491 (1 microM)-evoked 86Rb efflux with 50% block occurring at a concentration of 0.48 microM. Glyburide also antagonized the WAY-120,491-induced relaxation of aortic rings. Omission of Ca from the solution bathing the aorta did not inhibit the WAY-120,491 induced 86Rb efflux but rather caused an augmentation of the response. It is concluded that WAY-120,491 may be classified as a K channel opener. Furthermore, the K channel upon which WAY-120,491 acts exhibits some characteristics normally associated with the ATP regulated K channel although the involvement of other K channel types has not been ruled out.« less

Inhibitors of soluble epoxide hydrolase minimize ischemia-reperfusion-induced cardiac damage in normal, hypertensive, and diabetic rats.

PubMed

Islam, Oliul; Patil, Prashanth; Goswami, Sumanta K; Razdan, Rema; Inamdar, Mohammed N; Rizwan, Mohammed; Mathew, Jubin; Inceoglu, Bora; Stephen Lee, Kin S; Hwang, Sung H; Hammock, Bruce D

2017-06-01

We designed a study to evaluate the cardioprotective effect of two soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) inhibitors, 1-(1-propanoylpiperidin-4-yl)-3-(4-trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)urea (TPPU) and trans-4-{4-[3-(4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl)-ureido]cyclohexyloxy}benzoic acid (t-TUCB), in ischemia-reperfusion (IR) model. Cardioprotective effects of the sEH inhibitors were evaluated against IR-induced myocardial damage in hearts from normal, hypertensive, and diabetic rats using Langendorff's apparatus. In addition, the effect of sEH inhibitors on endothelial function was evaluated in vitro and ex vivo using isolated rat thoracic aorta. Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) increased the myocardial damage in hearts from normal rats. IR-induced myocardial damage was augmented in hearts isolated from hypertensive and diabetic rats. Myocardial damage as evident from increase in the activities of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) in heart perfusate was associated with significant decrease in the heart rate and developed tension, and increase in the resting tension in isolated heart. Both sEH inhibitors protected the heart in normal, hypertensive, and diabetic rats subjected to IR injury. The sEH inhibitor t-TUCB relaxed phenylephrine precontracted aorta from normal rats. Relaxant effect of acetylcholine (ACh) was reduced in aortas from diabetic and hypertensive rats compared to normal rats. Pretreatment of sEH inhibitors to diabetic and hypertensive rats increased relaxant effect of ACh on aortas isolated from these rats. Prophylactic treatment with sEH inhibitors decreased myocardial damage due to IR, hypertension and diabetes, and decreased endothelial dysfunction created by diabetes and hypertension. Therefore, inhibitors of sEH are useful probes to study cardiovascular pathology, and inhibition of the sEH is a potential approach in the management of IR-induced cardiac damage and endothelial dysfunction-related cardiovascular disorders. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Histopathology of aortic complications in bicuspid aortic valve versus Marfan syndrome: relevance for therapy?

PubMed

Grewal, Nimrat; Franken, Romy; Mulder, Barbara J M; Goumans, Marie-José; Lindeman, Johannes H N; Jongbloed, Monique R M; DeRuiter, Marco C; Klautz, Robert J M; Bogers, Ad J J C; Poelmann, Robert E; Groot, Adriana C Gittenberger-de

2016-05-01

Patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) and patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) are more prone to develop aortic dilation and dissection compared to persons with a tricuspid aortic valve (TAV). To elucidate potential common and distinct pathways of clinical relevance, we compared the histopathological substrates of aortopathy. Ascending aortic wall biopsies were divided in five groups: BAV (n = 36) and TAV (n = 23) without and with dilation and non-dilated MFS (n = 8). General histologic features, apoptosis, the expression of markers for vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) maturation, markers predictive for ascending aortic dilation in BAV, and expression of fibrillin-1 were investigated. Both MFS and BAV showed an altered distribution and decreased fibrillin-1 expression in the aorta and a significantly lower level of differentiated VSMC markers. Interestingly, markers predictive for aortic dilation in BAV were not expressed in the MFS aorta. The aorta in MFS was similar to the aorta in dilated TAV with regard to the presence of medial degeneration and apoptosis, while other markers for degeneration and aging like inflammation and progerin expression were low in MFS, comparable to BAV. Both MFS and BAV aortas have immature VSMCs, while MFS and TAV patients have a similar increased rate of medial degeneration. However, the mechanism leading to apoptosis is expected to be different, being fibrillin-1 mutation induced increased angiotensin-receptor-pathway signaling in MFS and cardiovascular aging and increased progerin in TAV. Our findings could explain why angiotensin inhibition is successful in MFS and less effective in TAV and BAV patients.

Blood flow characteristics in the ascending aorta after TAVI compared to surgical aortic valve replacement.

PubMed

Trauzeddel, Ralf Felix; Löbe, Ulrike; Barker, Alex J; Gelsinger, Carmen; Butter, Christian; Markl, Michael; Schulz-Menger, Jeanette; von Knobelsdorff-Brenkenhoff, Florian

2016-03-01

Ascending aortic blood flow characteristics are altered after aortic valve surgery, but the effect of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is unknown. Abnormal flow may be associated with aortic and cardiac remodeling. We analyzed blood flow characteristics in the ascending aorta after TAVI in comparison to conventional stented aortic bioprostheses (AVR) and healthy subjects using time-resolved three-dimensional flow-sensitive cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (4D-flow MRI). Seventeen patients with TAVI (Edwards Sapien XT), 12 with AVR and 9 healthy controls underwent 4D-flow MRI of the ascending aorta. Target parameters were: severity of vortical and helical flow pattern (semiquantitative grading from 0 = none to 3 = severe) and the local distribution of systolic wall shear stress (WSSsystole). AVR revealed significantly more extensive vortical and helical flow pattern than TAVI (p = 0.042 and p = 0.002) and controls (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001). TAVI showed significantly more extensive vortical flow than controls (p < 0.001). Both TAVI and AVR revealed marked blood flow eccentricity (64.7 and 66.7%, respectively), whereas controls showed central blood flow (88.9%). TAVI and AVR exhibited an asymmetric distribution of WSSsystole in the mid-ascending aorta with local maxima at the right anterior aortic wall and local minima at the left posterior wall. In contrast, controls showed a symmetric distribution of WSSsystole along the aortic circumference. Blood flow was significantly altered in the ascending aorta after TAVI and AVR. Changes were similar regarding WSSsystole distribution, while TAVI resulted in less helical and vortical blood flow.

Valsartan ameliorates ageing-induced aorta degeneration via angiotensin II type 1 receptor-mediated ERK activity

PubMed Central

Shan, HaiYan; Zhang, Siyang; Li, Xuelian; yu, Kai; Zhao, Xin; Chen, Xinyue; Jin, Bo; Bai, XiaoJuan

2014-01-01

Angiotensin II (Ang II) plays important roles in ageing-related disorders through its type 1 receptor (AT1R). However, the role and underlying mechanisms of AT1R in ageing-related vascular degeneration are not well understood. In this study, 40 ageing rats were randomly divided into two groups: ageing group which received no treatment (ageing control), and valsartan group which took valsartan (selective AT1R blocker) daily for 6 months. 20 young rats were used as adult control. The aorta structure were analysed by histological staining and electron microscopy. Bcl-2/Bax expression in aorta was analysed by immunohistochemical staining, RT-PCR and Western blotting. The expressions of AT1R, AT2R and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) were detected. Significant structural degeneration of aorta in the ageing rats was observed, and the degeneration was remarkably ameliorated by long-term administration of valsartan. With ageing, the expression of AT1R was elevated, the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax was decreased and meanwhile, an important subgroup of MAPKs, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activity was elevated. However, these changes in ageing rats could be reversed to some extent by valsartan. In vitro experiments observed consistent results as in vivo study. Furthermore, ERK inhibitor could also acquire partial effects as valsartan without affecting AT1R expression. The results indicated that AT1R involved in the ageing-related degeneration of aorta and AT1R-mediated ERK activity was an important mechanism underlying the process. PMID:24548645

Outcome of Pregnancies After Balloon Occlusion of the Infrarenal Abdominal Aorta During Caesarean in 230 Patients With Placenta Praevia Accreta

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wu, Qinghua, E-mail: qh-wu77@163.com; Liu, Zhuan, E-mail: liuchuan2015ck@163.com; Zhao, Xianlan, E-mail: zxl121292014@163.com

PurposeTo explore the efficacy and safety of prophylactic temporary balloon occlusion of the infrarenal abdominal aorta during caesarean for the management of patients with placenta praevia accreta.MethodsTwo hundred and sixty-eight cases of placenta praevia accreta from January 2012 to June 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Group A included two hundred and thirty patients who underwent prophylactic temporary balloon occlusion of infrarenal abdominal aorta followed by caesarean section. Group B included thirty-eight patients who underwent caesarean without endovascular intervention. The parameters including operating room time, estimated blood loss, blood transfusion volume, PT (prothrombin time) during operation, days in the intensive care unit,more » and total hospital days were compared between the two groups.ResultsThe operating room time, estimated blood loss, PT, the incidence of hysterectomy, blood transfusion volume, postpartum haemorrhage, and days in intensive care unit were lower in group A than in group B, with statistical significance (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the Apgar scores of the neonates and the incidences of thrombosis in lower limbs between the two groups (P > 0.05). No patient in the group with prophylactic temporary balloon occlusion of the infrarenal abdominal aorta was performed hysterectomy, while three patients in group B were performed hysterectomy because of uncontrollable haemorrhage.ConclusionsThe results indicate that prophylactic temporary balloon occlusion of infrarenal abdominal aorta followed by caesarean section is safe and effective to control intraoperative blood loss and greatly decreases the risk of hysterectomy in patients with placenta praevia accreta.« less

Effects of hypodynamia on the hemocoagulative properties of the vascular wall and myocardium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Inchina, V. I.

1980-01-01

The hemocoagulative properties of the aorta (laminar), myocardium, hollow veins, and fibrinolytic capacity of tissues were studied in 14 rabbits subjected to 7 days of restricted mobility and compared to those of 10 control animals. Two tables of results show that, as a result of hypodynamia, the thromboplastic activity of the inner and middle layers of the aorta together with the destruction of endothelium increases the hemocoagulative potential and creates the threat of thrombogenesis. There is also an increase in fibrin-stabilizing activity for all tissues.

Hydroelastic effects in the aorta bifurcation zone

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Volmir, A. S.; Gersheyn, M. S.; Purinya, B. A.

1980-01-01

The mechanical behavior of the vessels and blood is mathematically analyzed at the point of aortic bifurcation using a homogeneous single layer channel as a model of the aorta. Allowance is made for the fact that the aortic intima is considerably less rigid than the other layers. For analysis of blood flow in the major arteries, the blood is treated as a viscous Newtonian fluid whose movements are described by Navier-Stokes equations and a continuity equation. Blood flow dynamics at the aortic bifurcation are discussed on the basis of the results.

Ablation of Potassium-Chloride Cotransporter Type 3 (Kcc3) in Mouse Causes Multiple Cardiovascular Defects and Isosmotic Polyuria.

PubMed

Garneau, Alexandre P; Marcoux, Andrée-Anne; Noël, Micheline; Frenette-Cotton, Rachelle; Drolet, Marie-Claude; Couet, Jacques; Larivière, Richard; Isenring, Paul

2016-01-01

Inactivation of Kcc3 in a mixed 129/Sv×C57BL/6 mouse background has been previously found to increase systemic blood pressure (BP) through presumed neurogenic mechanisms. Yet, while this background is generally not considered ideal to investigate the cardiovascular system, KCC3 is also expressed in the arterial wall and proximal nephron. In the current study, the effects of Kcc3 ablation was investigated in a pure rather than mixed C57BL/6J background under regular- and high-salt diets to determine whether they could be mediated through vasculogenic and nephrogenic mechanisms. Aortas were also assessed for reactivity to pharmacological agents while isolated from the influence of sympathetic ganglia. This approach led to the identification of unforeseen abnormalities such as lower pulse pressure, heart rate, aortic reactivity and aortic wall thickness, but higher diastolic BP, left ventricular mass and urinary output in the absence of increased catecholamine levels. Salt loading also led systolic BP to be higher, but to no further changes in hemodynamic parameters. Importantly, aortic vascular smooth muscle cells and cardiomyocytes were both found to express KCC3 abundantly in heterozygous mice. Hence, Kcc3 inactivation in our model caused systemic vascular resistance and ventricular mass to increase while preventing extracellular fluid volume to accumulate. Given that it also affected the physiological properties of aortas in vitro, vasculogenic mechanisms could therefore account for a number of the hemodynamic abnormalities observed.

Resveratrol prevents high-fructose corn syrup-induced vascular insulin resistance and dysfunction in rats.

PubMed

Babacanoglu, C; Yildirim, N; Sadi, G; Pektas, M B; Akar, F

2013-10-01

Dietary intake of fructose and sucrose can cause development of metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. The consequences of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), a commonly consumed form of fructose and glucose, have poorly been examined. Therefore, in this study, we investigated whether HFCS intake (10% and 20% beverages for 12 weeks) impacts vascular reactivity to insulin and endothelin-1 in conjunction with insulin receptor substrate-1(IRS-1), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and inducible NOS (iNOS) mRNA/proteins levels in aorta of rats. At challenge, we tested the effectiveness of resveratrol (28-30 mg/kg body weight/day) on outcomes of HFCS feeding. HFCS (20%) diet feeding increased plasma triglyceride, VLDL, cholesterol, insulin and glucose levels, but not body weights of rats. Impaired nitric oxide-mediated relaxation to insulin (10⁻⁹ to 3×10⁻⁶ M), and enhanced contraction to endothelin-1 (10⁻¹¹ to 10⁻⁸ M) were associated with decreased expression of IRS-1 and eNOS mRNA and protein, but increased expression of iNOS, in aortas of rats fed with HFCS. Resveratrol supplementation restored many features of HFCS-induced disturbances, probably by regulating eNOS and iNOS production. In conclusion, dietary HFCS causes vascular insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction through attenuating IRS-1 and eNOS expressions as well as increasing iNOS in rats. Resveratrol has capability to recover HFCS-induced disturbances. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Deletion Exacerbates Pressure Overload-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy through Mitigating Autophagy

PubMed Central

Xu, Xihui; Hua, Yinan; Nair, Sreejayan; Bucala, Richard; Ren, Jun

2014-01-01

The proinflammatory cytokine macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been shown to be cardioprotective in various pathological conditions. However, the underlying mechanisms still remain elusive. In this study, we revealed that MIF deficiency overtly exacerbated abdominal aorta constriction (AAC)-induced cardiac hypertrophy and contractile anomalies. MIF deficiency interrupted myocardial autophagy in hypertrophied hearts. Rapamycin administration mitigated the exacerbated hypertrophic responses in MIF−/− mice. Using the phenylephrine-induced hypertrophy in vitro model in H9C2 myoblasts, we confirmed that MIF governed activation of AMPK-mTOR-autophagy cascade. Confocal microscopic examination demonstrated that MIF depletion prevented phenylephrine-induced mitophagy in H9C2 myoblasts. Myocardial Parkin, an E3 ubiquitin ligase and a marker for mitophagy, was significantly upregulated following sustained pressure overload, the effect of which was prevented by MIF knockout. Moreover, our data exhibited that levels of MIF, AMPK activation and autophagy were elevated concurrently in human failing hearts. These data indicate that endogenous MIF regulates the mTOR signaling to activate autophagy to preserve cardiac geometry and protect against hypertrophic responses. PMID:24366076

Effects of osteoprotegerin/TNFRSF11B in two models of abdominal aortic aneurysms.

PubMed

Vorkapic, Emina; Kunath, Anne; Wågsäter, Dick

2018-04-27

Osteoprotegerin (OPG), additionally termed tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 11B, is produced by vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells in the vasculature, and its release may be modulated by pro‑inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin‑1β and tumor necrosis factor‑α. The present study investigated the effects of treatment with low‑dose human recombinant OPG on abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) development in mice. Mice were treated with 1 µg human recombinant OPG four times (or vehicle) for 2 weeks prior to inducing AAA. A total of two different models for inducing AAA were used to investigate the hypothesis as to whether OPG is involved in key events of AAA development, using osmotic mini‑pumps with angiotensin II in apolipoprotein‑E (ApoE‑/‑) mice for 28 days or using periaortic application of CaCl2 on the aorta in C57Bl/6J mice for 14 days. OPG was continuously administered during the experimental period. Histological staining using Masson's trichrome, Verhoeff's van‑Gieson and picro‑sirius red, in addition to reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of various markers, were used to analyze phenotypic alterations. Treatment with OPG had no inhibitory effect on AAA development in the angiotensin II model in ApoE‑/‑ mice, which developed suprarenal aneurysms, although it increased vessel wall thickness of the aorta and total collagen in C57Bl/6J mice using the CaCl2 model that induced infrarenal dilation of the aorta. Treatment with OPG did not inhibit aneurysm development and key events, including inflammation, extracellular matrix or VSMC remodeling, in aortas from OPG‑treated mice with periaortic treatment with CaCl2. The results indicated that mice treated with low levels of human recombinant OPG may have a more stable aneurysmal phenotype due to compensatory production of collagen and increased vessel wall thickness of the aorta, potentially protecting the aneurysm from rupture. Further studies investigating rupture models of AAA in addition to using higher levels of OPG are require to verify this speculation. Furthermore, treatment with low levels of OPG in patients with AAA may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of AAA as well as attenuate the adverse effects associated with the administration of normal and high dosages of OPG.

Antioxidant Effect of Captopril and Enalapril on Reactive Oxygen Species-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction in the Rabbit Abdominal Aorta

PubMed Central

Kim, Ji Hoon; Kim, Young Hak; Chung, Won-Sang; Suh, Jung Kook; Kim, Sung Jin

2013-01-01

Background Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to be related to cardiovascular diseases. Many studies have demonstrated that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors have beneficial effects against ROS. We investigated the antioxidant effect of captopril and enalapril in nitric oxide mediated vascular endothelium-dependent relaxations. Materials and Methods Isolated rabbit abdominal aorta ring segments were exposed to ROS by electrolysis of the organ bath medium (Krebs-Henseleit solution) after pretreatment with various concentrations (range, 10-5 to 3×10-4 M) of captopril and enalapril. Before and after electrolysis, the endothelial function was measured by preconstricting the vessels with norepinephrine (10-6 M) followed by the cumulative addition of acetylcholine (range, 3×10-8 to 10-6 M). The relevance of the superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide scavenging effect of captopril and enalapril was investigated using additional pretreatments of diethyldithiocarbamate (DETCA, 0.5 mM), an inhibitor of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase, and 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole (3AT, 50 mM), an inhibitor of catalase. Results Both captopril and enalapril preserved vascular endothelium-dependent relaxation after exposure to ROS in a dose-dependent manner (p<0.0001). Pretreatment with DETCA attenuated the antioxidant effect of captopril and enalapril (p<0.0001), but pretreatment with 3AT did not have an effect. Conclusion Both captopril and enalapril protect endothelium against ROS in a dose-dependent fashion in isolated rabbit abdominal aortas. This protective effect is related to superoxide anion scavenging. PMID:23422724

[Relaxant effects of protopine on smooth muscles].

PubMed

Huang, Y H; Zhang, Z Z; Jiang, J X

1991-01-01

The relaxant effects of protopine (Pro) on smooth muscles were studied by recording isotonic contraction and radioimmunoassay. Pro relaxed the contraction of rabbit thoracic aorta, mesenteric artery, portal vein and guinea pig ileum and taenia colon induced by high K+ (70 mmol.L-1). Pro also inhibited the contraction of rabbit thoracic aorta, mesenteric artery, portal vein induced by NE (0.3 mumol.L-1) and guinea pig taenia colon induced by BaCl2 (1 mmol.L-1). Pro inhibited the intracellular Ca2+ release, but did not inhibit Ca2+ influx induced by NE. These results suggested that the smooth muscle relaxant mechanism of action of Pro may be the inhibition of intracellular Ca2+ release.

BSN723T Prevents Atherosclerosis and Weight Gain in ApoE Knockout Mice Fed a Western Diet.

PubMed

Williams, Jarrod; Ensor, Charles; Gardner, Scott; Smith, Rebecca; Lodder, Robert

This study tests the hypothesis that BSN723T can prevent the development of hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis in ApoE -/- knockout mice fed a Western (high fat, high cholesterol, and high sucrose) diet. BSN723T is a combination drug therapy consisting of D-tagatose and dihydromyricetin (BSN723). D-tagatose has an antihyperglycemic effect in animal and human studies and shows promise as a treatment for type 2 diabetes and obesity. Many claims regarding BSN723's pharmacological activities have been made including anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and anti-atherosclerotic effects. To our knowledge this is the first study that combines D-tagatose and BSN723 for the treatment of hyperlipidemia and the prevention of atherosclerosis. ApoE-deficient mice were randomized into five groups with equivalent mean body weights. The mice were given the following diets for 8 weeks: Group 1 - Standard diet; Group 2 - Western diet; Group 3 - Western diet formulated with D-tagatose; Group 4 - Western diet formulated with BSN723; Group 5 - Western diet formulated with BSN723T. Mice were measured for weight gain, tissue and organ weights, total serum cholesterol and triglycerides and formation of atherosclerosis. The addition of D-tagatose, either alone or in combination with BSN723, prevented the increase in adipose tissue and weight gain brought on by the Western diet. Both D-tagatose and BSN723 alone reduced total cholesterol and the formation of atherosclerosis in the aorta compared to mice on the Western diet. Addition of BSN723 to D-tagatose (BSN723T) did not increase efficacy in prevention of increases in cholesterol or atherosclerosis compared to D-tagatose alone. Addition of either D-tagatose or BSN723 alone to a Western diet prevented weight gain, increases in total serum cholesterol and triglycerides, and the formation of atherosclerosis. However, there was no additive or synergistic effect on the measured parameters with the combination BSN723T treatment.

Adaptive increases in expression and vasodilator activity of estrogen receptor subtypes in a blood vessel-specific pattern during pregnancy.

PubMed

Mata, Karina M; Li, Wei; Reslan, Ossama M; Siddiqui, Waleed T; Opsasnick, Lauren A; Khalil, Raouf A

2015-11-15

Normal pregnancy is associated with adaptive hemodynamic, hormonal, and vascular changes, and estrogen (E2) may promote vasodilation during pregnancy; however, the specific E2 receptor (ER) subtype, post-ER signaling mechanism, and vascular bed involved are unclear. We tested whether pregnancy-associated vascular adaptations involve changes in the expression/distribution/activity of distinct ER subtypes in a blood vessel-specific manner. Blood pressure (BP) and plasma E2 were measured in virgin and pregnant (day 19) rats, and the thoracic aorta, carotid artery, mesenteric artery, and renal artery were isolated for measurements of ERα, ERβ, and G protein-coupled receptor 30 [G protein-coupled ER (GPER)] expression and tissue distribution in parallel with relaxation responses to E2 (all ERs) and the specific ER agonist 4,4',4″-(4-propyl-[1H]-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl)-tris-phenol (PPT; ERα), diarylpropionitrile (DPN; ERβ), and G1 (GPER). BP was slightly lower and plasma E2 was higher in pregnant versus virgin rats. Western blots revealed increased ERα and ERβ in the aorta and mesenteric artery and GPER in the aorta of pregnant versus virgin rats. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the increases in ERs were mainly in the intima and media. In phenylephrine-precontracted vessels, E2 and PPT caused relaxation that was greater in the aorta and mesenteric artery but similar in the carotid and renal artery of pregnant versus virgin rats. DPN- and G1-induced relaxation was greater in the mesenteric and renal artery than in the aorta and carotid artery, and aortic relaxation to G1 was greater in pregnant versus virgin rats. The nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester with or without the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin with or without the EDHF blocker tetraethylammonium or endothelium removal reduced E2, PPT, and G1-induced relaxation in the aorta of pregnant rats, suggesting an endothelium-dependent mechanism, but did not affect E2-, PPT-, DPN-, or G1-induced relaxation in other vessels, suggesting endothelium-independent mechanisms. E2, PPT, DPN, and G1 caused relaxation of Ca(2+) entry-dependent KCl contraction, and the effect of PPT was greater in the mesenteric artery of pregnant versus virgin rats. Thus, during pregnancy, an increase in ERα expression in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle layers of the aorta and mesenteric artery is associated with increased ERα-mediated relaxation via endothelium-derived vasodilators and inhibition of Ca(2+) entry into vascular smooth muscle, supporting a role of aortic and mesenteric arterial ERα in pregnancy-associated vasodilation. GPER may contribute to aortic relaxation while enhanced ERβ expression could mediate other genomic vascular effects during pregnancy. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

[Suppressive effect of hydrogen sulfide donor on endothelin-1 production in aorta of atherosclerotic rats].

PubMed

Li, Wei; Du, Junbao; Jin, Hongfang

2015-06-01

To examine the effect of H2S donor, sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), on ET-1 level in plasma and aorta in rats with atherosclerosis (AS). Thirty male rats, weighting 200-220 g, were randomly divided into AS, AS+NaHS and control groups, n = 10 in each group.Rats were given a single dose of vitamin D3 (700 000 U/kg) in the first three days and fed with a high-cholesterol diet for 8 weeks to induce AS. Rats in AS+NaHS group were intraperitoneally injected with an H2S donor NaHS, at a dose of 56 µmol/(kg·d) for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment for 8 weeks, all the rats were sacrificed. The plasma was collected and the aorta and coronary tissues were isolated. The atherosclerotic lesions in both aorta and coronary arteries were detected using oil red O method. H2S concentration in plasma was determined with sulfide-sensitive electrode method. ET-1 levels in plasma and aorta were calculated by radioimmunoassay kit and the localization of ET-1 in the aorta was detected by immunohistochemistry. Plasma nitric oxide synthase (NOS), endothelial NOS (eNOS), inducible NOS (iNOS) were detected with colorimetry. AS plaque area in root of aorta of rats in AS group, AS+NaHS group and control group were (11.6±3.3)%, (1.6±1.1)%, (0.0±0.1)% respectively. The difference in AS plaque area in root of aorta among the three groups was statistically significant (F=97.675, P < 0.05). AS plaque area in coronary artery of rats in AS group, AS+NaHS group and control group were (21.4±5.7)%, (4.8±2.5)%, (0.0±0.0)% respectively. The difference in AS plaque area in coronary artery among the three groups was statistically significant (F=97.519, P < 0.05). Plasma H2S level in rats of AS group ((22.0±3.1) µmol/L) was significantly lower than that of control group ((27.9±1.0) µmol/L) and AS+NaHS group ((33.3±6.2) µmol/L, all P < 0.05). Compared with control group ((70.0±10.7) ng/L), plasma ET-1 in rats of AS group ((89.6±14.2) ng/L) and AS+NaHS group ((93.1±15.5) ng/L, P both < 0.05) were increased. However, there was no significant difference in plasma ET-1 content in rats between AS+NaHS group and AS group (P > 0.05). Compared with control group ((3.8±1.2) ng/g), ET-1 content in aorta in rats of AS group ((11.9±4.9) ng/g) and AS+NaHS group ((8.2±2.5) ng/g, both P < 0.05) were increased, and ET-1 content in aorta in rats of AS+NaHS group was decreased compared with AS group (P < 0.05). Immunochemistry results showed that ET expression in cytoplasm in aortic endothelial cells in rats of AS group was strengthened, while ET expression in rats of control group and AS+NaHS group was weak. NOS activity of rats in control group, AS group and AS+NaHS group was (25.4±5.6), (51.8±10.0) and (27.6±6.5) U/ml, eNOS activity (15.3±6.2), (4.5±2.7) and (8.7±3.9) U/ml, and iNOS activity (9.9±4.0), (47.3±10.7) and (19.0±5.2) U/ml, respectively.Differences among the three groups were statistically significant (NOS activity: F=37.231, P < 0.05, eNOS activity: F=14.600, P < 0.05, and iNOS activity: F=72.131, P < 0.05). H2S donor NaHS reduced the AS plaque in AS rats. The mechanisms might involve the protective effect of H2S on the vascular endothelial cell, decreasing ET-1 production in aortal endothelium of atherosclerotic rats.

Co-existence of severe coarctation of the aorta and aortic valve stenosis in a 65-year-old woman: a case report.

PubMed

Onohara, Daisuke; Sato, Aiko; Tasaki, Yuichi; Yamada, Takafumi

2014-01-01

Coarctation of the aorta is usually diagnosed and corrected early in life. Survival to more than 60 years of age of a patient with unrepaired coarctation of the aorta is extremely unusual, and the optimal management strategies for such patients are controversial. We describe the case of a woman who was first diagnosed as having coarctation of the aorta and aortic valve stenosis at the age of 65 years and underwent successful aortic valve replacement.

Pathologic aneurysmal dilation of the ascending aorta and dilation of the main pulmonary artery in patients with Kabuki syndrome: valve-sparing aortic root replacement.

PubMed

Dyamenahalli, Umesh; Abraham, Boban; Fontenot, Eudice; Prasad, Vinay; Imamura, Michiaki

2007-01-01

We report the aneurysmal dilation of the ascending aorta and the main pulmonary artery in 2 children with Kabuki syndrome. In 1 patient, there was progressive aneurysmal dilation of the ascending aorta necessitating aortoplasty. Histologic examination of the resected aorta revealed disrupted and fragmented elastic fibers in the medial layer, along with mucinous degeneration of the aortic wall. This is the first recognition and report of these findings as part of the Kabuki syndrome.

Ascending aortic elongation and the risk of dissection.

PubMed

Krüger, Tobias; Forkavets, Oksana; Veseli, Kujtim; Lausberg, Henning; Vöhringer, Luise; Schneider, Wilke; Bamberg, Fabian; Schlensak, Christian

2016-08-01

Unlike aneurysm formation, the role of ascending aortic elongation in the pathogenesis of Type A aortic dissection (TAD) is largely unclear. We investigated the morphology of healthy, dissected and predissection aortas with a focus on ascending aortic length. We retrospectively compared clinical and computer tomography angiography (CTA) data from TAD patients (n = 130), patients who developed a TAD in the further clinical course (preTAD, n = 16) and healthy control patients who received a CTA for non-aortic emergencies (n = 165). The length of the ascending aorta was defined as the distance between the sinotubular junction (STJ) and the brachiocephalic trunk (BCT) at the central line, the outer and inner curvature as well as the direct distance in the frontal and sagittal planes. Additionally, the aortic diameters were analysed. In the healthy controls, we found a positive correlation of age with the aortic diameter (r = 0.57) and aortic length (r = 0.42). The correlation of the respective parameters with the body size was negligible (r < 0.2). The median ascending aortic diameter at the height of the pulmonary artery in TAD (50 mm) was significantly (P < 0.001) larger compared with the respective diameter of the healthy aortas (34 mm). The diameter of the preTAD aortas (40 mm) was also significantly larger compared with the healthy controls. These proportions were similar in all the aortic diameters. The midline length of the healthy ascending aortas was 71 mm. In the preTAD and TAD aortas, the same values were 81 mm and 92 mm, respectively (both P < 0.001). We evaluated the linear distance between the STJ and the BCT in the frontal plane as an easy-to-measure parameter of aortic length. In the TAD aortas (108 mm) and preTAD aortas (97 mm), this distance was significantly longer compared with the healthy aortas (84 mm). Aortic diameter might not be an optimal parameter to predict dissection. Most aortas dissect at diameters below 55 mm. Both the TAD and preTAD aortas were elongated compared with the healthy controls. Thus, aortic elongation may play a role in the pathogenesis of and may be a risk factor for TAD. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Impacts of fresh lime juice and peel on atherosclerosis progression in an animal model.

PubMed

Boshtam, Maryam; Asgary, Sedigheh; Moshtaghian, Jamal; Naderi, Gholamali; Jafari-Dinani, Narges

2013-11-01

The main protective role of antioxidants in the progression of atherosclerosis has been shown in some studies. Therefore, this project evaluated the effects of Citrus aurantifolia (Christm) juice and peel on antioxidant activity and atherosclerosis progression in rabbits receiving a hypercholesterolemic diet. Forty white New Zealand male rabbits were randomly allocated to four groups. All groups were on hypercholesterolemic diet for two months. While the first group was considered as the hypercholesterolemic control, groups 2 and 3 (intervention groups) received 5 ml/day lime juice and 1 g/day dried lime peel powder, respectively. Group 4 was fed a normal diet (normal control). Before and after the study, weight was measured and a fasting blood specimen was taken from the rabbits. Serum lipids analyses and antioxidant activity evaluations were then performed. The rabbits' aorta and coronary arteries were separated and the presence of fatty streaks was studied. Comparing to the hypercholesterolemic control group (-25.2 ± 7.0), only the plasma total antioxidant capacity change was significantly more in rabbits supplemented with lime juice (16.3 ± 14.7) and peel (8.6 ± 7.1) (P = 0.008). The presence of fatty streaks in coronary arteries and aorta of the intervention groups [juice (0.2 ± 0.01); peel (0.0 ± 0.00)] was significantly decreased compared to the hypercholesterolemic control group (1.2 ± 0.4) (P < 0.001). Based on our findings, Citrus aurantifolia peel and juice increase plasma antioxidant capacity in rabbits, and can thus prevent or decelerate the process of atherogenesis. However, lime peel is more effective than lime juice.

Exogenous supplement of N-acetylneuraminic acid ameliorates atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice.

PubMed

Guo, Shoudong; Tian, Hua; Dong, Rongrong; Yang, Nana; Zhang, Ying; Yao, Shutong; Li, Yongjun; Zhou, Yawei; Si, Yanhong; Qin, Shucun

2016-08-01

Previous studies investigating the correlation between plasma sialic acid and the severity of atherosclerosis present conflicting results. In atherosclerosis patients, plasma levels of N-acetylneuraminic acid (NANA) are increased; however, the underlying mechanisms have not yet been clarified. We assume the increased NANA level may be a compensatory mechanism due to oxidative stress and/or inflammation. The aim of this study is to investigate whether supplementation of NANA could attenuate the progression of atherosclerosis. Exogenous NANA was used to determine its effect on apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE(-/-)) mice taking natural quercetin as a positive control. The effect of NANA on lipid lowering, antioxidant activity and anti-inflammation was investigated by methods of molecular biology. 1) NANA administration decreased 18.9% of the atherosclerotic plaque formation in the aorta and 26.7% of the lipid deposition in the liver of high-fat diet apoE(-/-) mice; 2) notably, NANA treatment reduced 62.6% of the triglyceride by improving lipoprotein lipase activity; 3) NANA lowered 17.5% of the plasma total cholesterol by up-regulating reverse cholesterol transport (RCT)-related protein expression such as ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABC) G1 and ABCG5 in liver or small intestine; 4) NANA administration notably decreased oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant enzymes activity and protein expression of paraoxonase 1 and 2; 5) NANA markedly reduced tumour necrosis factor-α and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 expression in aorta and liver. NANA exhibited triglyceride lowering, anti-oxidation, and RCT promoting activities, and therefore NANA supplementation may be a new strategy for prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Endothelin receptor antagonist macitentan or deletion of mouse mast cell protease 4 delays lesion development in atherosclerotic mice.

PubMed

Houde, Martin; Desbiens, Louisane; Schwertani, Adel; Pejler, Gunnar; Iglarz, Marc; D'Orléans-Juste, Pedro

2016-08-15

To determine the impact of mixed endothelin receptor antagonist and mouse mast cell protease-4 (mMCP-4) in the development of atherosclerosis in the mouse model. Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) KO mice were crossed with mMCP-4 KO mice to generate ApoE/mMCP-4 double KO mice. Atherosclerosis was induced with a normal- or high-fat diet for 12, 27 or 52weeks. Macitentan (30mg/kg/day), a dual ETA/ETB receptor antagonist, was given orally for 6weeks (27week protocol). At sacrifice, aortas and brachiocephalic arteries (BCAs) were collected. En face Sudan IV staining was performed on aortas and BCA sections were subjected to Masson's trichrome stain and α-smooth muscle actin labeling. Under normal diet, both macitentan treatment and the absence of mMCP-4 reduced the development of aortic atherosclerotic lesions in 27-week old ApoE KO mice, but mMCP-4 deletion failed to maintain this effect on 52-week old mice. Under high-fat diet (WD), macitentan, but not the absence of mMCP-4, reduced aortic lesion development in ApoE KO mice. On BCA lesions of 27-week old WD mice, macitentan treatment had a small impact while mMCP-4 deletion showed improved features of plaque stability. These results suggest that the inhibition of mMCP-4 reduces lesion spreading in the earlier phases of atherosclerosis development and can help stabilise the more advanced plaque. Macitentan treatment was more effective to prevent lesion spreading but did not improve plaque features to the same extent. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of Arginase Inhibition in Hypertensive Hyperthyroid Rats.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Gómez, Isabel; Manuel Moreno, Juan; Jimenez, Rosario; Quesada, Andrés; Montoro-Molina, Sebastian; Vargas-Tendero, Pablo; Wangensteen, Rosemary; Vargas, Félix

2015-12-01

This study analyzed the effects of chronic administration of N[omega]-hydroxy-nor-l-arginine (nor-NOHA), an inhibitor of arginase, on the hemodynamic, oxidative stress, morphologic, metabolic, and renal manifestations of hyperthyroidism in rats. Four groups of male Wistar rats were used: control, nor-NOHA-treated (10 mg/kg/day), thyroxine (T4)-treated (75 μg/rat/day), and thyroxine- plus nor-NOHA-treated rats. All treatments were maintained for 4 weeks. Body weight, tail systolic blood pressure (SBP), and heart rate (HR) were recorded weekly. Finally, morphologic, metabolic, plasma, and renal variables were measured. Arginase I and II protein abundance and arginase activity were measured in aorta, heart, and kidney. The T4 group showed increased arginase I and II protein abundance, arginase activity, SBP, HR, plasma nitrates/nitrites (NOx), brainstem and urinary isoprostanes, proteinuria and cardiac and renal hypertrophy in comparison to control rats. In hyperthyroid rats, chronic nor-NOHA prevented the increase in SBP and HR and decreased proteinuria in association with an increase in plasma NOx and a decrease in brainstem and urinary isoprostanes. In normal rats, nor-NOHA treatment did not significantly change any hemodynamic, morphologic, or renal variables. Acute nor-NOHA administration did not affect renal or systemic hemodynamic variables in normal or T4-treated rats. Hyperthyroidism in rats is associated with the increased expression and activity of arginase in aorta, heart, and kidney. Chronic arginase inhibition with nor-NOHA suppresses the characteristic hemodynamic manifestations of hyperthyroidism in association with a reduced oxidative stress. These results indicate an important role for arginase pathway alterations in the cardiovascular and renal abnormalities of hyperthyroidism. © American Journal of Hypertension, Ltd 2015. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

A new class of nitric oxide-releasing derivatives of cetirizine; pharmacological profile in vascular and airway smooth muscle preparations

PubMed Central

Larsson, A-K; Fumagalli, F; DiGennaro, A; Andersson, M; Lundberg, J; Edenius, C; Govoni, M; Monopoli, A; Sala, A; Dahlén, S-E; Folco, G C

2007-01-01

Background and purpose: The pharmacological properties of compounds NCX 1512 and NCX 1514, synthesized by linking the histamine H1-receptor antagonist cetirizine to NO-releasing spacer groups, are reported. The aim was to establish if the compounds retained the antihistamine action of the parent compound, to assess their efficacy as NO donors and to test if they had broader antiallergic activity than cetirizine in the lung. Experimental approach: Antihistamine activity of NCX 1512 and NCX 1514 was investigated in vitro in the guinea pig ileum, in tracheal rings (GPTR) and lung parenchymal strips (GPLP) of the guinea-pig. The NO-releasing capacity was investigated in vascular preparations; the isolated rabbit and guinea-pig aorta and guinea-pig pulmonary artery. Kinetics of NO release were assessed in a rat whole blood assay. Key results: Both NCX 1512 and NCX 1514 retained activity as H1-receptor antagonists in the guinea pig ileum and airway preparations. The NO-releasing NCX compounds relaxed the rabbit aorta, an action prevented by the guanylyl cyclase inhibitor ODQ (10 μM). NCX 1512 and NCX 1514 did not relax the antigen (ovalbumin) pre-contracted GPTR, whereas the NO donors NCX 2057 and DEA-NONOate relaxed guinea-pig pre-contracted vascular and tracheal preparations. Cetirizine (1–100 μM) and NCX 1512 (1–100 μM) reduced the cumulative (0.01–100 μg ml−1) ovalbumin-induced constriction in GPTR, but had no significant effect in GPLP. Conclusions and implications: NCX 1512 and NCX 1514 act as antihistamines and NO donors. However, there was no improved effect compared to cetirizine on antigen-induced constriction of the central and peripheral lung. PMID:17351654

Thiopental inhibits nitric oxide production in rat aorta.

PubMed

Castillo, C; Asbun, J; Escalante, B; Villalón, C M; López, P; Castillo, E F

1999-12-01

We studied whether thiopental affects endothelial nitric oxide dependent vasodilator responses and nitrite production (an indicator of nitric oxide production) elicited by acetylcholine, histamine, and A23187 in rat aorta (artery in which nitric oxide is the main endothelial relaxant factor). In addition, we evaluated the barbiturate effect on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity in both rat aorta and kidney homogenates. Thiopental (10-100 microg/mL) reversibly inhibited the endothelium-dependent relaxation elicited by acetylcholine, histamine, and A23187. On the contrary, this anesthetic did not modify the endothelium-independent but cGMP-dependent relaxation elicited by sodium nitroprusside (1 nM - 1 microM) and nitroglycerin (1 nM - 1 microM), thus excluding an effect of thiopental on guanylate cyclase of vascular smooth muscle. Thiopental (100 microg/mL) inhibited both basal (87.8+/-14.3%) and acetylcholine- or A23187-stimulated (78.6+/-3.9 and 39.7+/-5.6%, respectively) production of nitrites in aortic rings. In addition the barbiturate inhibited (100 microg/mL) the NOS (45+/-4 and 42.8+/-9%) in aortic and kidney homogenates, respectively (measured as 14C-labeled citrulline production). In conclusion, thiopental inhibition of endothelium-dependent relaxation and nitrite production in aortic rings strongly suggests an inhibitory effect on NOS. Thiopental inhibition of the NOS provides further support to this contention.

Rat health status affects bioavailability, target tissue levels, and bioactivity of grape seed flavanols.

PubMed

Margalef, Maria; Pons, Zara; Iglesias-Carres, Lisard; Quiñones, Mar; Bravo, Francisca Isabel; Arola-Arnal, Anna; Muguerza, Begoña

2017-02-01

Studying the flavanol metabolism is essential to identify bioactive compounds, as beneficial effects of flavanols have been attributed to their metabolic products. However, host-related factors, including pathological conditions, may affect flavanol metabolism and, thus, their bioactivity. This study aims to elucidate whether hypertension affects grape seed flavanol metabolism, influencing their bioactivity in relation to hypertension. Grape seed flavanols' effect on blood pressure (BP) was studied in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and healthy Wistar rats 6 h after grape seed extract administration (375 mg/kg). Animals were then sacrificed, and plasma bioavailability and aorta distribution of flavanol metabolites were studied by HPLC-MS/MS in both the groups. Grape seed flavanols were only able to decrease BP in SHR. Plasma total flavanol metabolites showed similar levels, being the difference noticed in specific metabolites' concentrations. Specifically, microbial metabolites showed quantitative and qualitative differences between both health states. Moreover, aorta total concentrations were found decreased in SHR. Interestingly, flavanol microbial metabolites were specifically increased SHR aortas, showing qualitative differences in small phenolic forms. This study demonstrates important differences in bioactivity and target tissue metabolite levels between healthy and diseased rats, indicating potential metabolites responsible of the anti-hypertensive effect. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

[The effect of prolonged treatment of hypertensive rats with antihypertensive drugs of various actions on the arterial tension and noradrenaline level in the myocardium, brain and aortal].

PubMed

Kiriakov, A; Khlebarova, M; Staneva-stoicheva, D; Panova, I

1975-01-01

The authors examined the changes in arterial blood pressure and the content of Noradrenaline in the myocardium, brain and aorta of rats with hypertension due to nephrectomy and treatment with desoxycorticosterone and NaCl, and after a chronic 6-month treatment of hypertension with various antihypertensive means. The most significant reduction of noradrenaline in the three of the examined tissues was found in rats, which received dic. sulfyram (100 mg/kg per os). Clondine (10 mkg/kg, per os) manifested the strongest hypotensive effect and lowered the level of noradrenaline in the myocardium, while it was raised in the aorta. Reserpine (10 mkg/kg, s. c) induced a clear reduction of Noradrenaline content in the brain, but an increase in the other two tissues. Insignificant hypotensive effect was observed in animals, treated with guanetidine (0.5 mg/kg, per os), which did not affect substantially noradrenaline in the examined organs. The increase of noradrenaline level was established in the three of the organs of animals, treated with alpha-methyl-DOFA (25 mg/kg, per os). Furosemide (1 mg/kg, s.c.) induced a statistically significant elevation of noradrenaline in the aorta, but was noneffective to noradrenaline in the myocardium and brain.

No-touch aorta robot-assisted atrial septal defect repair via two ports.

PubMed

Ishikawa, Norihiko; Watanabe, Go; Tarui, Tatsuya

2018-05-01

Atrial septal defect (ASD) repairs have been successfully performed on arrested hearts with robotic assistance. The present study assessed the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of totally endoscopic cardiac surgery using a no-touch aorta technique for ASD via only 2 ports, and we named this procedure two-port robotic cardiac surgery (TROCS). Between May 2014 and June 2016, 8 consecutive patients underwent TROCS for ASD using the da Vinci surgical system (Intuitive Surgical Inc.) at our institute. All of the procedures were performed via only 2 port incisions in the right chest. One was the camera port, and the other was the port for the robotic instruments. Both robotic instruments were inserted through this port and crossed while being prevented from colliding with each other. The surgeon console was set to the reverse of default settings so that both masters would control the inverse instrument. TROCS for ASD was carried out under ventricular fibrillation induced by combinations of an electrical fibrillator, injection of potassium, and hypothermia without aortic cross-clamping. All cases were successfully repaired. The mean operation, cardiopulmonary bypass and ventricular fibrillation times were 129.6 ± 29.0 min, 66.9 ± 24.5 min and 9.6 ± 5.9 min, respectively, and the estimated blood loss volume was 28.1 ± 58.6 ml. No patients required blood transfusion during their hospital stay, and their cosmetic results were excellent. TROCS for ASD using no-touch aorta technique was achieved safely with good clinical results and excellent cosmetic results.

Naringin ameliorates endothelial dysfunction in fructose-fed rats.

PubMed

Malakul, Wachirawadee; Pengnet, Sirinat; Kumchoom, Chanon; Tunsophon, Sakara

2018-03-01

High fructose consumption is associated with metabolic disorders including hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia, in addition to endothelial dysfunction. Naringin, a flavonoid present in citrus fruit, has been reported to exhibit lipid lowering, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protective properties. Therefore, the present study investigated the effect of naringin on fructose-induced endothelial dysfunction in rats and its underlying mechanisms. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given 10% fructose in drinking water for 12 weeks, whereas control rats were fed drinking water alone. Naringin (100 mg/kg) was orally administered to fructose fed rats during the last 4 weeks of the study. Following 12 weeks, blood samples were collected for measurement of blood glucose, serum lipid profile and total nitrate/nitrite (NOx). Vascular function was assessed by isometric tension recording. Aortic expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), phosphorylated eNOS (p-eNOS), and nitrotyrosine were evaluated by western blot analysis. Fructose feeding induced increased levels of blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low density lipoprotein. In rat aortae, fructose reduced acethycholine-induced vasorelaxation, without affecting sodium nitroprusside-induced vasorelaxation. Treatment of fructose-fed rats with naringin restored fructose-induced metabolic alterations and endothelial dysfunction. Fructose-fed rats also exhibited decreased serum NOx level, reduced eNOS and p-eNOS protein expression, and enhanced nitrotyrosine expression in aortae. These alterations were improved by naringin treatment. The results of the present study suggested that naringin treatment preserves endothelium-dependent relaxation in aortae from fructose fed rats. This effect is primarily mediated through an enhanced NO bioavailability via increased eNOS activity and decreased NO inactivated to peroxynitrite in aortae.

Statins meditate anti-atherosclerotic action in smooth muscle cells by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ activation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fukuda, Kazuki; Matsumura, Takeshi, E-mail: takeshim@gpo.kumamoto-u.ac.jp; Senokuchi, Takafumi

Highlights: • Statins induce PPARγ activation in vascular smooth muscle cells. • Statin-induced PPARγ activation is mediated by COX-2 expression. • Statins suppress cell migration and proliferation in vascular smooth muscle cells. • Statins inhibit LPS-induced inflammatory responses by PPARγ activation. • Fluvastatin suppress the progression of atherosclerosis and induces PPARγ activation in the aorta of apoE-deficient mice. - Abstract: The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) is an important regulator of lipid and glucose metabolism, and its activation is reported to suppress the progression of atherosclerosis. We have reported that 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) activate PPARγ in macrophages. However,more » it is not yet known whether statins activate PPARγ in other vascular cells. In the present study, we investigated whether statins activate PPARγ in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) and thus mediate anti-atherosclerotic effects. Human aortic SMCs (HASMCs) and human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) were used in this study. Fluvastatin and pitavastatin activated PPARγ in HASMCs, but not in HUVECs. Statins induced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in HASMCs, but not in HUVECs. Moreover, treatment with COX-2-siRNA abrogated statin-mediated PPARγ activation in HASMCs. Statins suppressed migration and proliferation of HASMCs, and inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in HASMCs. These effects of statins were abrogated by treatment with PPARγ-siRNA. Treatment with statins suppressed atherosclerotic lesion formation in Apoe{sup −/−} mice. In addition, transcriptional activity of PPARγ and CD36 expression were increased, and the expression of MCP-1 and TNF-α was decreased, in the aorta of statin-treated Apoe{sup −/−} mice. In conclusion, statins mediate anti-atherogenic effects through PPARγ activation in SMCs. These effects of statins on SMCs may be beneficial for the prevention of atherosclerosis.« less

Vitamin D Receptor Activation Reduces Angiotensin-II-Induced Dissecting Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Apolipoprotein E-Knockout Mice.

PubMed

Martorell, Sara; Hueso, Luisa; Gonzalez-Navarro, Herminia; Collado, Aida; Sanz, Maria-Jesus; Piqueras, Laura

2016-08-01

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a vascular disorder characterized by chronic inflammation of the aortic wall. Low concentrations of vitamin D3 are associated with AAA development; however, the potential direct effect of vitamin D3 on AAA remains unknown. This study evaluates the effect of oral treatment with the vitamin D3 receptor (VDR) ligand, calcitriol, on dissecting AAA induced by angiotensin-II (Ang-II) infusion in apoE(-/-) mice. Oral treatment with calcitriol reduced Ang-II-induced dissecting AAA formation in apoE(-/-) mice, which was unrelated to systolic blood pressure or plasma cholesterol concentrations. Immunohistochemistry and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrated a significant increase in macrophage infiltration, neovessel formation, matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9, chemokine (CCL2 [(C-C motif) ligand 2], CCL5 [(C-C motif) ligand 5], and CXCL1 [(C-X-C motif) ligand 1]) and vascular endothelial growth factor expression in suprarenal aortic walls of apoE(-/-) mice infused with Ang-II, and all were significantly reduced by cotreatment with calcitriol. Phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, and nuclear factor-κB was also decreased in the suprarenal aortas of apoE(-/-) mice cotreated with calcitriol. These effects were accompanied by a marked increase in VDR-retinoid X receptor (RXR) interaction in the aortas of calcitriol-treated mice. In vitro, VDR activation by calcitriol in human endothelial cells inhibited Ang-II-induced leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions, morphogenesis, and production of endothelial proinflammatory and angiogenic chemokines through VDR-RXR interactions, and knockdown of VDR or RXR abolished the inhibitory effects of calcitriol. VDR activation reduces dissecting AAA formation induced by Ang-II in apoE(-/-) mice and may constitute a novel therapeutic strategy to prevent AAA progression. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

A theory for water and macromolecular transport in the pulmonary artery wall with a detailed comparison to the aorta

PubMed Central

Zeng, Zhongqing; Jan, Kung-Ming

2012-01-01

The pulmonary artery (PA) wall, which has much higher hydraulic conductivity and albumin void space and approximately one-sixth the normal transmural pressure of systemic arteries (e.g, aorta, carotid arteries), is rarely atherosclerotic, except under pulmonary hypertension. This study constructs a detailed, two-dimensional, wall-structure-based filtration and macromolecular transport model for the PA to investigate differences in prelesion transport processes between the disease-susceptible aorta and the relatively resistant PA. The PA and aorta models are similar in wall structure, but very different in parameter values, many of which have been measured (and therefore modified) since the original aorta model of Huang et al. (23). Both PA and aortic model simulations fit experimental data on transwall LDL concentration profiles and on the growth of isolated endothelial (horseradish peroxidase) tracer spots with circulation time very well. They reveal that lipid entering the aorta attains a much higher intima than media concentration but distributes better between these regions in the PA than aorta and that tracer in both regions contributes to observed tracer spots. Solutions show why both the overall transmural water flow and spot growth rates are similar in these vessels despite very different material transport parameters. Since early lipid accumulation occurs in the subendothelial intima and since (matrix binding) reaction kinetics depend on reactant concentrations, the lower intima lipid concentrations in the PA vs. aorta likely lead to slower accumulation of bound lipid in the PA. These findings may be relevant to understanding the different atherosusceptibilities of these vessels. PMID:22198178

Cardiovascular Involvement in Children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta

PubMed Central

Karamifar, Hamdollah; Ilkhanipoor, Homa; Ajami, Gholamhossein; Karamizadeh, Zohreh; Amirhakimi, Gholamhossein; Shakiba, Ali-Mohammad

2013-01-01

Objective Osteogenesis imperfecta is a hereditary disease resulting from mutation in type I procollagen genes. One of the extra skeletal manifestations of this disease is cardiac involvement. The prevalence of cardiac involvement is still unknown in the children with osteogenesis imperfecta. The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of cardiovascular abnormalities in these patients. Methods 24 children with osteogenesis imperfecta and 24 normal children who were matched with the patients regarding sex and age were studied. In both groups, standard echocardiography was performed, and heart valves were investigated. Dimensions of left ventricle, aorta annulus, sinotubular junction, ascending and descending aorta were measured and compared between the two groups. Findings The results revealed no significant difference between the two groups regarding age, sex, ejection fraction, shortening fraction, mean of aorta annulus, sinotubular junction, ascending and descending aorta, but after correction based on the body surface area, dimensions of aorta annulus, sinotubular junction, ascending and descending aorta in the patients were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). Two (8.3%) patients had aortic insufficiency and five (20%) patients had tricuspid regurgitation, three of whom had gradient >25 mmHg and one patient had pulmonary insufficiency with indirect evidence of pulmonary hypertension. According to Z scores of aorta annulus, sinotubular junction and ascending aorta, 5, 3, and 1 out of 24 patients had Z scores >2 respectively. Conclusion The prevalence of valvular heart diseases and aortic root dilation was higher in children with osteogenesis imperfecta. In conclusion, cardiovascular investigation is recommended in these children. PMID:24800009

Inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatases unmasks vasoconstriction and potentiates calcium signaling in rat aorta smooth muscle cells in response to an agonist of 5-HT2B receptors BW723C86.

PubMed

Mironova, Galina Y; Avdonin, Piotr P; Goncharov, Nikolay V; Jenkins, Richard O; Avdonin, Pavel V

2017-01-29

In blood vessels, serotonin 5-HT2B receptors mainly mediate relaxation, although their activation by the selective agonist BW723C86 is known to exert contraction of aorta in deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt and N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine (l-NAME) hypertensive rats [Russel et al., 2002; Banes et al., 2003] and in mice with type 2 diabetes [Nelson et al., 2012]. The unmasking effect on vasoconstriction can be caused by a shift in the balance of tyrosine phosphorylation in smooth muscle cells (SMC) due to oxidative stress induced inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTP). We have demonstrated that BW723C86 which does not cause contraction of rat aorta and mesenteric artery rings, evoked a vasoconstrictor effect in the presence of PTP inhibitors sodium orthovanadate (Na 3 VO 4 ) or BVT948. BW723C86 induced a weak rise of [Ca 2+ ] i in the SMC isolated from rat aorta; however, after pre-incubation with Na 3 VO 4 the response to BW723C86 increased more than 5-fold. This effect was diminished by protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) inhibitor genistein, inhibitor of Src-family kinases PP2, inhibitor of NADPH-oxidase VAS2870 and completely suppressed by N-acetylcysteine and 5-HT2B receptor antagonist RS127445. Using fluorescent probe DCFH-DA we have shown that Na 3 VO 4 induces oxidative stress in SMC. In the presence of Na 3 VO 4 BW723C86 considerably increased formation of reactive oxygen species while alone had no appreciable effect on DCFH oxidation. We suggest that oxidative stress causes inhibition of PTP and unmasking of 5-HT2B receptors functional activity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

77 FR 61768 - Neurological Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-11

... vasculature via partial occlusion of the descending aorta, including in patients with acute ischemic stroke... device is placed in the descending aorta. On March 30, 2005, a Humanitarian Device Exemption application... selectively stopping or controlling flow in the peripheral vasculature, which includes the descending aorta...

Exploring inside a shaggy aorta using non-obstructive angioscopy.

PubMed

Komatsu, Sei; Takahashi, Satoru; Toyama, Yasuyuki; Kodama, Kazuhisa

2017-05-22

A shaggy aorta is reportedly related to atheromatous embolisation, which causes serious ischaemic damage to various organs. However, its characteristics are poorly understood. Non-obstructive angioscopy (NOA) has been developed to safely detect aortic plaques and injuries. A 70-year-old woman who was found to have a shaggy aorta on CT angiography underwent NOA for precise evaluation of vulnerable aortic plaques and injuries inside the aorta. Vulnerable aortic plaques included puff-like ruptures, chandelier-like ruptures and erosions seen throughout the aorta. Aortic injuries included flaps, slits, subintimal bleeding, dissection and multilayered partitions. The patient had no embolic symptoms or an elevated eosinophil count, estimated glomerular filtration rate or C reactive protein level, compared with the baseline. Various changes in spontaneous vulnerable plaques and injuries inside the aorta that were not apparent on CT were safely revealed on NOA. Thus, NOA may reveal findings indicative of spontaneous and postoperative atheromatous embolisation. © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd (unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Flow Dynamics of Contrast Dispersion in the Aorta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eslami, Parastou; Seo, Jung-Hee; Chen, Marcus; Mittal, Rajat

2016-11-01

The time profile of the contrast concentration or arterial input function (AIF) has many fundamental clinical implications and is of importance for many imaging modalities and diagnosis such as MR perfusion, CT perfusion and CT angiography (CTA). Contrast dispersion in CTA has been utilized to develop a novel method- Transluminal Attenuation Flow Encoding (TAFE)- to estimate coronary blood flow (CBF). However, in clinical practice, AIF is only available in the descending aorta and is used as a surrogate of the AIF at the coronary ostium. In this work we use patient specific computational models of the complete aorta to investigate the fluid dynamics of contrast dispersion in the aorta. The simulation employs a realistic kinematic model of the aortic valve and the dispersion patterns are correlated with the complex dynamics of the pulsatile flow in the curved aorta. The simulations allow us to determine the implications of using the descending aorta AIF as a surrogate for the AIF at the coronary ostium. PE is supported by the NIH Individual Partnership Program. -/abstract- Category: 4.7.1: Biological fluid dynamics: Physiological - Cardiovasc This work was done at Johns Hopkins University.

Ascending Aorta to Hepatic and Mesenteric Artery Bypassing, in Patients with Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia and Extensive Aortic Disease-A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

PubMed

Barr, James; Kokotsakis, John; Tsipas, Pantelis; Papapavlou, Prodromos; Velissarios, Konstantinos; Kratimenos, Theodoros; Athanasiou, Thanos

2017-02-01

Chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) is a rare disorder caused by severe stenosis of the mesenteric arterial supply that results in postprandial pain and weight loss. Treatment options are surgical or endovascular. Surgical bypass can be performed in an antegrade fashion from the supraceliac abdominal aorta (AA) or the distal descending thoracic aorta or in a retrograde fashion from the infrarenal aorta or the common iliac artery. However, in some patients with disease of the descending thoracic aorta or the AA, another site for the proximal anastomosis needs to be found. In this article, we report the case of a 69-year-old man with a thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm and CMI in whom we performed bypass grafts to the hepatic and superior mesenteric arteries using the ascending aorta as the site for the proximal anastomoses via a median sternolaparotomy. In addition, we performed a literature review of all similar cases and provide an analysis of this technique and an assessment of the success rates. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Molecular basis of vascular damage caused by cigarette smoke exposure and a new approach to the treatment: Alpha-linolenic acid.

PubMed

Kaplan, Halil Mahir; Kuyucu, Yurdun; Polat, Sait; Pazarci, Percin; Yegani, Arash Alizadeh; Şingirik, Ergin; Ertuğ, Peyman

2018-06-01

Exposure to cigarette smoke (CS) causes vessel damage and mechanism of this damage has not yet been clearly identified. Therefore, in this study we aimed to investigate whether vessel damage due to the CS exposure will be prevented by the alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) or not which has anti-inflammatory effect in mice. For this reason, mice were grouped as controls (with and without CS) and ALA (with and without CS). The CS application continued 5 days a week for two months. At the end of two months, the mice were killed by cervical dislocation and their blood and thoracic aortas were isolated. ALA Treatment increased acetylcholine relaxations. CS decreased acetylcholine relaxation. CS with ALA treatment increased acetylcholine relaxations versus just CS treatment. CS caused rising in cyclooxigenase-2 and phospholipase A2 levels. This rise is inhibited with ALA treatment. CS decreased eNOS levels. But this result was not statistically significant. Furthermore, according to electron microscopic study CS damaged both smooth muscle and endothelium. While ALA treatment prevented smooth muscle damage it didn't prevent endothelial damage. Using cigarette and CS exposure is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Our study showed that this disease. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Anomalous Posterior Intercostal Arterial Trunk Arising From the Abdominal Aorta

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jie, Bing, E-mail: jbshh@163.com; Yu, Dong, E-mail: yudong-mail@126.com; Jiang, Sen, E-mail: jasfly77@vip.163.com

A common trunk of the ipsilateral posterior intercostal artery (PIA) arising from the thoracic aorta is usually an anatomical variation. However, a common trunk of bilateral posterior intercostal arterial trunk (PIAT) arising from the abdominal aorta is rare. It is important to recognize this anatomical variation of PIA when performing interventional radiological procedures. We present a rare case of an anomalous PIAT that originated from the abdominal aorta in a patient with hemoptysis caused by tuberculosis sequelae. Bilateral 4th to 11th PIAs arose from a common trunk and the trunk arising from the posterior aspect of the abdominal aorta atmore » the level of T12/L1 intervertebral space. The pathological right 4th and 5th PIAs and bronchial arteries were embolized. Hemoptysis has been controlled for 3 months.« less

Complete occlusion after blunt injury to the abdominal aorta.

PubMed

Meghoo, Colin A L; Gonzalez, Ernest A; Tyroch, Alan H; Wohltmann, Christopher D

2003-10-01

Injury to the abdominal aorta after blunt trauma is uncommon. When this injury results in complete vessel occlusion, the presentation is dramatic. Timely intervention is essential. After a case report, we examined all reported cases of complete occlusion after blunt injury to the abdominal aorta and reviewed the cause, presentation, and management of this injury. Complete vessel occlusion arises from intimal injury. The most frequent mechanism is compression from a seat belt or steering wheel during a motor vehicle crash. Patients present with absent femoral and distal pulses in association with lower extremity neuropathy. Intervention commonly involves bypass grafting of the abdominal aorta. Complete occlusion after blunt trauma to the abdominal aorta is rare. Neurologic deficits most commonly arise from peripheral nerve ischemia. Reperfusion within 6 hours confers a greater chance of limb salvage and neurologic recovery.

Aorta-Iliac Bypass in Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair in Young Chinese Patients.

PubMed

Duan, Yu-Yin; Ge, Yi-Peng; Zheng, Jun; Pan, Xu-Dong; Dong, Xiu-Hua; Ma, Wei-Guo; Cheng, Li-Jian; Zhu, Jun-Ming; Liu, Yong-Min; Sun, Li-Zhong

2016-04-01

Many surgical methods of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair (TAAAR) have been introduced over the past several decades, with varying degrees of success. We developed an aorta-iliac bypass technique to treat thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) in young Chinese patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of this technique intraoperatively and postoperatively. From June 2014 to March 2015, 28 patients underwent TAAAR using aorta-iliac bypass technique. A four-branched tetrafurcate graft was used. Two branches of the graft are sutured to bilateral common iliac arteries in an end-to-side fashion. The trunk of the graft was sutured to the proximal descending aorta in an end-to-end fashion. Then aorta-iliac bypass was established, and the lower extremities, viscera organ and spinal cord (SC) obtained perfusion from proximal descending aorta via the bypass graft. The thoracic and abdominal aorta were clamped in a staged fashion. The patent segmental arteries (SAs), and visceral arteries (coeliac trunk, superior mesenteric arteries, and renal arteries) were reattached sequentially. Evoked potential (EP) monitoring was adopted to assess the SC ischaemia throughout the procedure. The postoperative outcomes and follow-up results of this technique were evaluated. There was no in-hospital mortality. Complications included acute kidney dysfunction and pulmonary haemorrhage in one case (3.6%) each. The SAs were reattached in all cases. The EP wave disappeared after proximal descending aorta was clamped, and gradually recovered after the patent SAs reattached. The median follow-up after operation was eight months (range, 1-10 months). There was no delayed neurologic deficit or late death. Thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair using aorta-iliac bypass may be a simple and safe choice for young Chinese patients with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. Copyright © 2015 Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons (ANZSCTS) and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Loss of pulse pressure amplification between the ascending and descending aorta in patients after an aortic arch repair.

PubMed

Murakami, Tomoaki; Shiraishi, Masahiro; Nawa, Tomohiro; Takeda, Atsuhito

2017-03-01

One of the most important problems in patients with an aortic coarctation after an aortic arch repair is future cardiovascular disease. We previously reported the enhancement of the aortic pressure wave reflection in patients and hypothesized that the enhancement was caused by a new pressure wave reflection generated from the repaired site. To prove the hypothesis, we analyzed the pressure waveform in the ascending and descending aorta and examined their pulse pressure (PP) amplification. Fifteen patients after an aortic arch repair without a recoarctation were enrolled. The ascending and descending aorta pressure waveforms were recorded by a pressure sensor mounted catheter. The pressures were compared with those of age-matched controls. The patient's age was 7.3 ± 2.7 years, and they underwent the aortic arch repair at 30.1 ± 29.0 days. The ascending aorta SBP (106.1 ± 12.7 mmHg) was higher than in the control patients (97.9 ± 14.3) (P = 0.015). The PP at the ascending aorta in the patients (41.3 ± 7.8) was wider than that in the controls (36.4 ± 5.0) (P = 0.010). There was no difference concerning the PP at the descending aorta between the patients (41.0 ± 7.7) and controls (40.5 ± 6.5). The difference in the PP between the descending and ascending aorta (PP at the descending aorta - PP at the ascending aorta) in the patients was -0.3 ± 1.7 and 5.1 ± 2.9 in the controls (P < 0.0001). The ascending aortic PP was augmented in the patients after the aortic arch repair. It could be one of the causes of future cardiovascular disease.

Transcriptional and phenotypic changes in aorta and aortic valve with aging and MnSOD deficiency in mice

PubMed Central

Roos, Carolyn M.; Hagler, Michael; Zhang, Bin; Oehler, Elise A.; Arghami, Arman

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to characterize changes in antioxidant and age-related gene expression in aorta and aortic valve with aging, and test the hypothesis that increased mitochondrial oxidative stress accelerates age-related endothelial and aortic valve dysfunction. Wild-type (MnSOD+/+) and manganese SOD heterozygous haploinsufficient (MnSOD+/−) mice were studied at 3 and 18 mo of age. In aorta from wild-type mice, antioxidant expression was preserved, although there were age-associated increases in Nox2 expression. Haploinsufficiency of MnSOD did not alter antioxidant expression in aorta, but increased expression of Nox2. When compared with that of aorta, age-associated reductions in antioxidant expression were larger in aortic valves from wild-type and MnSOD haploinsufficient mice, although Nox2 expression was unchanged. Similarly, sirtuin expression was relatively well-preserved in aorta from both genotypes, whereas expression of SIRT1, SIRT2, SIRT3, SIRT4, and SIRT6 were significantly reduced in the aortic valve. Expression of p16ink4a, a marker of cellular senescence, was profoundly increased in both aorta and aortic valve from MnSOD+/+ and MnSOD+/− mice. Functionally, we observed comparable age-associated reductions in endothelial function in aorta from both MnSOD+/+ and MnSOD+/− mice. Interestingly, inhibition of NAD(P)H oxidase with apocynin or gp91ds-tat improved endothelial function in MnSOD+/+ mice but significantly impaired endothelial function in MnSOD+/− mice at both ages. Aortic valve function was not impaired by aging or MnSOD haploinsufficiency. Changes in antioxidant and sirtuin gene expression with aging differ dramatically between aorta and aortic valve. Furthermore, although MnSOD does not result in overt cardiovascular dysfunction with aging, compensatory transcriptional responses to MnSOD deficiency appear to be tissue specific. PMID:23997094

Aortic elongation in aortic aneurysm and dissection: the Tübingen Aortic Pathoanatomy (TAIPAN) project.

PubMed

Krüger, Tobias; Sandoval Boburg, Rodrigo; Lescan, Mario; Oikonomou, Alexandre; Schneider, Wilke; Vöhringer, Luise; Lausberg, Henning; Bamberg, Fabian; Blumenstock, Gunnar; Schlensak, Christian

2018-01-24

To study the lengths and diameters of aortic segments in healthy and diseased aortas and to assess the role of aortic elongation in Type A aortic dissection (TAD) prediction. Ectasia and aneurysm were defined by ascending aorta diameters of 45-54 mm and ≥55 mm, respectively. Computed tomography angiography studies of 256 healthy, 102 ectasia, 38 aneurysm, 17 pre-TAD and 166 TAD aortas were analysed using curved multiplanar reformats. The study groups were structurally equal. The diameter of the ascending aorta was 35 mm in the control group and was larger (P < 0.001) in the pre-TAD (43 mm) and TAD (56 mm) groups. The length of the ascending aorta from the aortic annulus to the brachiocephalic trunk was 92 mm in the control group, 113 mm in the ectasia group, 120 mm in the aneurysm group and 111 mm and 118 mm in the pre-TAD and TAD groups (all P < 0.001 compared with the control group). An ascending aorta length of 120 mm was exceeded in 2% of the control group, 31% of the ectasia group, 50% of the aneurysm group, 24% of the pre-TAD group and 48% of the TAD group. The correlation between the diameter and the length of the ascending aorta was r = 0.752; therefore, both parameters must be examined separately. A score considering both parameters identified 23.5% of pre-TAD patients, significantly more than the diameter alone, and 31.4% of ectasia aortas were elongated. Patients with ectatic (45-54 mm diameter) and elongated (≥120 mm) ascending aortas represent a high-risk subpopulation for TAD. © The Author(s) 2018. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

[Changes of vascular reactivity and reactive oxygen species in conditions of varying duration of permanent stay in the alienation zone in mice].

PubMed

Tkachenko, M M; Kotsiuruba, A V; Baziliuk, O V; Horot', I V; Sahach, V F

2010-01-01

Peculiarities of changes in the vascular reactivity and in the content of reactive forms of oxygen and stable metabolites of nitric oxide (NO) were studied in the aorta preparations of C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice of the two age groups (6 and 18 mo.), which were born and permanently kept in the Chernobyl alienation zone. The results obtained showed a disturbance of acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent reactions of relaxation of smooth muscles of the thoracic aorta. A lower level of NO synthesis and lower level of oxidative arginase metabolism of arginine corresponded to a higher degree of damage of endothelium-dependent reactions of relaxation of the thoracic aorta smooth muscles. A decrease of NO synthesis in conditions of permanent effects of low doses of radiation was conditioned by an increase of generation of reactive forms of oxygen, namely, superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, which might be formed in mitochondria. In conditions of permanent effects of low doses of radiation a lesser level of protein nitrosothilation, same as lesser one of generation of OH-radical, corresponded to a higher level of damage of endothelium-dependent reactions.

Electrophysiological and mechanical effects of substance P and acetylcholine on rabbit aorta.

PubMed Central

Bény, J L; Brunet, P C

1988-01-01

1. The mechanical and electrical properties of smooth muscle cells of the rabbit aorta were recorded simultaneously using respectively a force transducer and a 3 M-KCl-filled glass microelectrode. 2. Acetylcholine had two effects depending on concentration. At low concentration, it caused a persistent endothelium-dependent relaxation and hyperpolarization. At higher concentrations the acetylcholine endothelium-dependent relaxation summed with an endothelium-independent contraction. 3. Substance P caused a transient endothelium-dependent relaxation and hyperpolarization. 4. Acetylcholine and substance P depolarized and contracted de-endothelialized smooth muscle. When the de-endothelialized strip was pre-contracted by noradrenaline, acetylcholine depolarized the muscle but substance P did not. 5. In a 'cascade' experiment, the perfusate from an upstream intact aorta passed over a downstream de-endothelialized strip. Acetylcholine and substance P relaxed the downstream strip showing that they released an endothelial humoral factor which relaxes smooth muscle. 6. The results suggest a constant release of a factor from the endothelial cells which hyperpolarizes the smooth muscle cells in the media. Activation of acetylcholine and substance P receptors on the endothelium accelerates the release of this factor and causes vasodilatation. PMID:2455799

Loss of Endothelial Barrier in Marfan Mice (mgR/mgR) Results in Severe Inflammation after Adenoviral Gene Therapy

PubMed Central

Weymann, Alexander; Arif, Rawa; Weber, Antje; Zaradzki, Marcin; Richter, Karsten; Ensminger, Stephan; Robinson, Peter Nicholas; Wagner, Andreas H.; Karck, Matthias; Kallenbach, Klaus

2016-01-01

Objectives Marfan syndrome is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder of connective tissue. The vascular complications of Marfan syndrome have the biggest impact on life expectancy. The aorta of Marfan patients reveals degradation of elastin layers caused by increased proteolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In this study we performed adenoviral gene transfer of human tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (hTIMP-1) in aortic grafts of fibrillin-1 deficient Marfan mice (mgR/mgR) in order to reduce elastolysis. Methods We performed heterotopic infrarenal transplantation of the thoracic aorta in female mice (n = 7 per group). Before implantation, mgR/mgR and wild-type aortas (WT, C57BL/6) were transduced ex vivo with an adenoviral vector coding for human TIMP-1 (Ad.hTIMP-1) or β-galactosidase (Ad.β-Gal). As control mgR/mgR and wild-type aortas received no gene therapy. Thirty days after surgery, overexpression of the transgene was assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and collagen in situ zymography. Histologic staining was performed to investigate inflammation, the neointimal index (NI), and elastin breaks. Endothelial barrier function of native not virus-exposed aortas was evaluated by perfusion of fluorescent albumin and examinations of virus-exposed tissue were performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results IHC and ISZ revealed sufficient expression of the transgene. Severe cellular inflammation and intima hyperplasia were seen only in adenovirus treated mgR/mgR aortas (Ad.β-Gal, Ad.hTIMP-1 NI: 0.23; 0.43), but not in native and Ad.hTIMP-1 treated WT (NI: 0.01; 0.00). Compared to native mgR/mgR and Ad.hTIMP-1 treated WT aorta, the NI is highly significant greater in Ad.hTIMP-1 transduced mgR/mgR aorta (p = 0.001; p = 0.001). As expected, untreated Marfan grafts showed significant more elastolysis compared to WT (p = 0.001). However, elastolysis in Marfan aortas was not reduced by adenoviral overexpression of hTIMP-1 (compared to untreated Marfan aorta: Ad.hTIMP-1 p = 0.902; control Ad.β-Gal. p = 0.165). The virus-untreated and not transplanted mgR/mgR aorta revealed a significant increase of albumin diffusion through the endothelial barrier (p = 0.037). TEM analysis of adenovirus-exposed mgR/mgR aortas displayed disruption of the basement membrane and basolateral space. Conclusions Murine Marfan aortic grafts developed severe inflammation after adenoviral contact. We demonstrated that fibrillin-1 deficiency is associated with relevant dysfunction of the endothelial barrier that enables adenovirus to induce vessel-harming inflammation. Endothelial dysfunction may play a pivotal role in the development of the vascular phenotype of Marfan syndrome. PMID:26840980

Microsurgical Bypass Training Rat Model: Part 2-Anastomosis Configurations.

PubMed

Tayebi Meybodi, Ali; Lawton, Michael T; Yousef, Sonia; Mokhtari, Pooneh; Gandhi, Sirin; Benet, Arnau

2017-11-01

Mastery of microsurgical anastomosis is key to achieving good outcomes in cerebrovascular bypass procedures. Animal models (especially rodents) provide an optimal preclinical bypass training platform. However, the existing models for practicing different anastomosis configurations have several limitations. We sought to optimize the use of the rat's abdominal aorta and common iliac arteries (CIA) for practicing the 3 main anastomosis configurations commonly used in cerebrovascular surgery. Thirteen male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent inhalant anesthesia. The abdominal aorta and the CIAs were exposed. The distances between the major branches of the aorta were measured to find the optimal location for an end-to-end anastomosis. Also, the feasibility of performing side-to-side and end-to-side anastomoses between the CIAs was assessed. All bypass configurations could be performed between the left renal artery and the CIA bifurcation. The longest segments of the aorta without major branches were 1) between the left renal and left iliolumbar arteries (16.9 mm ± 4.6), and 2) between the right iliolumbar artery and the aortic bifurcation (9.7 mm ± 4.7). The CIAs could be juxtaposed for an average length of 7.6 mm ± 1.3, for a side-to-side anastomosis. The left CIA could be successfully reimplanted on to the right CIA at an average distance of 9.1 mm ± 1.6 from the aortic bifurcation. Our results show that rat's abdominal aorta and CIAs may be effectively used for all the anastomosis configurations used in cerebral revascularization procedures. We also provide technical nuances and anatomic descriptions to plan for practicing each bypass configuration. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sonographic aorta/IVC cross-sectional area index for evaluation of dehydration in children.

PubMed

Kwon, Hyuksool; Jung, Jae Yun; Lee, Jin Hee; Kwak, Young Ho; Kim, Do Kyun; Jung, Jin Hee; Chang, Ik Wan; Kim, Kyuseok

2016-09-01

Current studies have not found sufficient evidence to encourage the use of ultrasound for assessing dehydration in children. We introduce a new sonographic parameter, the "aorta/inferior vena cava (IVC) cross-sectional area index" (Ao/IVCA) measured just inferior to the xiphoid process, for the effective evaluation of dehydration in children. This is a prospective, observational study. We enrolled children who presented to the pediatric emergency department (PED) between May 2014 and January 2015. We measured the maximum diameter of the aorta from inner wall to inner wall, and the long and short axis diameters of IVC using a convex array transducer. Ao/IVCA was calculated and compared with aorta/IVC maximal diameter index (Ao/IVCD) and the clinical dehydration scale (CDS). A total of 34 children were enrolled. We found a statistically significant correlation between Ao/IVCA and CDS (R(2) = 0.30; P <.001). Ao/IVCD did not correlate significantly with CDS (R(2) = 0.08; P =.11). The ability of Ao/IVCA and Ao/IVCD to predict CDS ≥1 was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic analysis. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for Ao/IVCA was larger than that for Ao/IVCD (0.87 vs 0.75, P= .04). The cut-off value of Ao/IVCA that yielded the maximum value of Youden index was 1.81 (sensitivity: 72%, specificity: 89%). Ao/IVCA might be a promising index for the assessment of dehydration. The diagnostic performance of Ao/IVCA for dehydration might be higher than that of the method that uses the maximum diameter of IVC and the aorta. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Melatonin and vitamin C attenuates alcohol-induced oxidative stress in aorta.

PubMed

Sönmez, Mehmet Fatih; Narin, Figen; Balcioğlu, Esra

2009-12-01

Epidemiological studies have shown that low to moderate doses of alcohol consumption are beneficial to cardiac health. However, chronic high doses of alcohol ingestion cause cardiovascular complications. The aim of this study was to investigate both the effects of melatonin and vitamin C and expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in aorta of chronic alcoholic rats. Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats weighing 200-250 g were used in the study. Rats were divided into four equal groups. Group I (control): rats were not fed on alcohol; Group II: rats were fed on alcohol; Group III: rats were fed on alcohol and 40 mg/kg vitamin C were injected intraperitoneally and Group IV: rats were fed on alcohol and 4 mg/kg melatonin were injected intraperitoneally. At the end of the experiment, rats were killed and aorta tissues were removed. Some parts of the aorta tissues were used for biochemical analyses and the other parts were used at histological procedures. In the control group, endothelial nitric oxide synthase immunoreactivity was (++) in smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells. Expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in the alcohol group was stronger than control group. Chronic ethanol ingestion significantly increased (p < 0.05); and melatonin significantly decreased both the plasma and tissue malondialdehyde levels. The superoxide dismutase levels and catalase activity did not change significantly in the Vitamin C and melatonin groups (p > 0.05) compared to the control and alcohol groups. The present results indicate that chronic alcohol consumption increase lipid peroxidation and cause endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression in the aorta. However, melatonin and vitamin C administration provide partial protection against alcohol-induced damage.

Role of Oxytocin in deceleration of early atherosclerotic inflammatory processes in adult male rats

PubMed Central

Ahmed, Marwa A; ELosaily, Gehan M

2011-01-01

Objective: The study aimed to examine the effect of exogenous OT administration on the inflammation and atherosclerosis in adult male rats and its possible mechanisms. Thirty adult male rats equally divided into three groups. Control group fed regular diet; group II fed control diet supplemented with L-methionine for 10 weeks. Group III received L-methionine and oxytocin treatment for 10 weeks. RT-PCR analysis showed that OT administration increased oxytocin receptor mRNA (2 fold, P, 0.05). Blood samples were evaluated for total homocysteine, interlukin-6 (IL-6), monocyte chemoatrratant protein-1 (MCP-1) and C-reactive protein (CRP) by ELIZA, lipid profile, nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were determined. Specimens from aorta were processed for immunohistochemical staining for Aorta nuclear factor _B (NF-κB) p65 protein. Result showed that OT administration to group III decreased the plasma levels IL-6, MCP-1 and CRP levels which were elevated in group II. Moreover, there was decrease of the oxidative stress of group III in terms of increased plasma levels of NO and GSH and decreased plasma levels of MDA in blood. In addition, rats of group II showed histological abnormalities manifested by thickening and ulceration of the aortic wall. Marked increased expression of NF-κB in aorta of in group II was detected. However, OT administration restores the histological structure of the aorta and decreased the expression of NF-κB in aorta of group III similar to the control group. Conclusion: OT has anti inflammatory pathway in atherosclerosis as it decelerates atherosclerosis by decreasing the proinflammatory responses through many mechanisms, mainly the up regulation of its receptors. PMID:21977229

Contribution of oxidative stress and prostanoids in endothelial dysfunction induced by chronic fluoxetine treatment.

PubMed

Simplicio, Janaina A; Resstel, Leonardo B; Tirapelli, Daniela P C; D'Orléans-Juste, Pedro; Tirapelli, Carlos R

2015-10-01

The effects of chronic fluoxetine treatment were investigated on blood pressure and on vascular reactivity in the isolated rat aorta. Male Wistar rats were treated with fluoxetine (10 mg/kg/day) for 21 days. Fluoxetine increased systolic blood pressure. Chronic, but not acute, fluoxetine treatment increased the contractile response induced by phenylephrine, serotonin (5-HT) and KCl in endothelium-intact rat aortas. L-NAME and ODQ did not alter the contraction induced by phenylephrine and 5-HT in aortic rings from fluoxetine-treated rats. Tiron, SC-560 and AH6809 reversed the increase in the contractile response to phenylephrine and 5-HT in aortas from fluoxetine-treated rats. Fluoxetine treatment increased superoxide anion generation (O2(-)) and the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 in the rat aorta. Reduced expression of nNOS, but not eNOS or iNOS was observed in animals treated with fluoxetine. Fluoxetine treatment increased prostaglandin (PG)F2α levels but did not affect thromboxane (TX)B2 levels in the rat aorta. Reduced hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels and increased catalase (CAT) activity were observed after treatment. The major new finding of our study is that chronic fluoxetine treatment induces endothelial dysfunction, which alters vascular responsiveness by a mechanism that involves increased oxidative stress and the generation of a COX-derived vasoconstrictor prostanoid (PGF2α). Moreover, our results evidenced a relation between the period of treatment with fluoxetine and the magnitude in the increment of blood pressure. Finally, our findings raise the possibility that fluoxetine treatment increases the risk for vascular injury, a response that could predisposes to cardiovascular diseases. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ascending aorta dilatation in patients with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis: a prospective CMR study.

PubMed

Rossi, Alexia; van der Linde, Denise; Yap, Sing Chien; Lapinskas, Thomas; Kirschbaum, Sharon; Springeling, Tirza; Witsenburg, Maarten; Cuypers, Judith; Moelker, Adriaan; Krestin, Gabriel P; van Dijk, Arie; Johnson, Mark; van Geuns, Robert-Jan; Roos-Hesselink, Jolien W

2013-03-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the natural progression of aortic dilatation and its association with aortic valve stenosis (AoS) in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). Prospective study of aorta dilatation in patients with BAV and AoS using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Aortic root, ascending aorta, aortic peak velocity, left ventricular systolic and diastolic function and mass were assessed at baseline and at 3-year follow-up. Of the 33 enrolled patients, 5 needed surgery, while 28 patients (17 male; mean age: 31 ± 8 years) completed the study. Aortic diameters significantly increased at the aortic annulus, sinus of Valsalva and tubular ascending aorta levels (P < 0.050). The number of patients with dilated tubular ascending aortas increased from 32 % to 43 %. No significant increase in sino-tubular junction diameter was observed. Aortic peak velocity, ejection fraction and myocardial mass significantly increased while the early/late filling ratio significantly decreased at follow-up (P < 0.050). The progression rate of the ascending aorta diameter correlated weakly with the aortic peak velocity at baseline (R (2) = 0.16, P = 0.040). BAV patients with AoS showed a progressive increase of aortic diameters with maximal expression at the level of the tubular ascending aorta. The progression of aortic dilatation correlated weakly with the severity of AoS.

Catching a floating thrombus; a case report on the treatment of a large thrombus in the ascending aorta.

PubMed

de Maat, Gijs Eduard; Vigano, Giorgio; Mariani, Massimo Alessandro; Natour, Ehsan

2017-05-19

The ascending aorta is an uncommon site for non-infective thrombus. In non-aneurysmal and non-atherosclerotic vessels this condition becomes extremely rare, while it represents a source of potential cerebral and peripheral embolic events. Currently, there is no consensus in the guidelines on how to treat a free floating thrombus in ascending aorta, therefore we present our decision making process and therapeutic strategy. A healthy 48-year-old man was hospital admitted with acute abdominal pain. CT-scan showed a right renal embolism in presence of a defect in the distal ascending aorta suggestive for thrombus. After heart team discussion the patient was scheduled for surgery and successfully underwent an emergent thrombus removal. Also, owing to multiple aortic wall insertions, the ascending aorta was replaced. The patient's recovery was uneventful and histological examination showed no signs of connective tissue disorders of aortic wall while confirmed the thrombotic nature of the mass. We present a patient with a floating thrombus in the ascending aorta who underwent an ascending aorta replacement. While angio-CT scan led to a prompt diagnosis, intraoperative epi-aortic echocardiography allowed to define precise location of thrombus, minimizing operative risk. This case demonstrates that multi-disciplinary heart team discussion is essential to define a successful strategy, that surgical treatment is feasible with specific tools such as epi-aortic echocardiography.

Automatic segmentation of thoracic aorta segments in low-dose chest CT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noothout, Julia M. H.; de Vos, Bob D.; Wolterink, Jelmer M.; Išgum, Ivana

2018-03-01

Morphological analysis and identification of pathologies in the aorta are important for cardiovascular diagnosis and risk assessment in patients. Manual annotation is time-consuming and cumbersome in CT scans acquired without contrast enhancement and with low radiation dose. Hence, we propose an automatic method to segment the ascending aorta, the aortic arch and the thoracic descending aorta in low-dose chest CT without contrast enhancement. Segmentation was performed using a dilated convolutional neural network (CNN), with a receptive field of 131 × 131 voxels, that classified voxels in axial, coronal and sagittal image slices. To obtain a final segmentation, the obtained probabilities of the three planes were averaged per class, and voxels were subsequently assigned to the class with the highest class probability. Two-fold cross-validation experiments were performed where ten scans were used to train the network and another ten to evaluate the performance. Dice coefficients of 0.83 +/- 0.07, 0.86 +/- 0.06 and 0.88 +/- 0.05, and Average Symmetrical Surface Distances (ASSDs) of 2.44 +/- 1.28, 1.56 +/- 0.68 and 1.87 +/- 1.30 mm were obtained for the ascending aorta, the aortic arch and the descending aorta, respectively. The results indicate that the proposed method could be used in large-scale studies analyzing the anatomical location of pathology and morphology of the thoracic aorta.

Impact of Age-Dependent Adventitia Inflammation on Structural Alteration of Abdominal Aorta in Hyperlipidemic Mice

PubMed Central

Sakamoto, Sumiharu; Tsuruda, Toshihiro; Hatakeyama, Kinta; Imamura, Takuroh; Asada, Yujiro; Kitamura, Kazuo

2014-01-01

Background The adventitia is suggested to contribute to vascular remodeling; however, the site-selective inflammatory responses in association with the development of atherosclerosis remain to be elucidated. Methods and Results Wild-type or apolipoprotein E knockout male C57BL/6J background mice were fed standard chow for 16, 32, and 52 weeks, and the morphology of the aortic arch, descending aorta, and abdominal aorta was compared. Atheromatous plaque formation progressed with age, particularly in the aortic arch and abdominal aorta but not in the descending aorta. In addition, we found that the numbers of macrophages, T-lymphocytes, and microvessels, assessed by anti-F4/80, CD3, and CD31 antibodies, were higher in the adventitia of the abdominal aorta at 52 weeks. These numbers were positively correlated with plaque formation, but negatively correlated with elastin content, resulting in the enlargement of the total vessel area. In aortic tissues, interleukin-6 levels increased in the atheromatous plaque with age, whereas the level of regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) increased with age, and compared with other sites, it was particularly distributed in inflammatory cells in the adventitia of the abdominal aorta. Conclusion This study suggests that adventitial inflammation contributes to the age-dependent structural alterations, and that the activation/inactivation of cytokines/chemokines is involved in the process. PMID:25153991

Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome Improved by Enteral Nutritional Therapy according to the Controlling Nutritional Status Score.

PubMed

Takehara, Kazuhiro; Sakamoto, Kazuhiro; Takahashi, Rina; Kawai, Masaya; Kawano, Shingo; Munakata, Shinya; Sugimoto, Kiichi; Takahashi, Makoto; Kojima, Yutaka; Fukunaga, Tetsu; Kajiyama, Yoshiaki; Kawasaki, Seiji

2017-01-01

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is a relatively rare disease that involves bowel obstruction symptoms, such as vomiting and gastric distension, owing to the compression of the third portion of the duodenum from the front by the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and from the rear by the abdominal aorta and the spine. SMAS is diagnosed on the basis of an upper gastrointestinal examination series indicating the obstruction of the third portion of the duodenum or a computed tomography scan indicating the narrowing of the branch angle between the aorta and the SMA (i.e., the aorta-SMA angle). Here, we report the case of a 78-year-old woman diagnosed with SMAS after a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for cecal cancer, whose condition was improved by enteral nutritional therapy. We used her controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score as a nutrition assessment and noted the changes in the aorta-SMA angle over the course of the disease. This patient appeared to develop SMAS, on the basis of a worsened CONUT score and a decreased aorta-SMA angle, owing to the inflammation resulting from the intraoperative dissection of the tissues around the SMA and prolonged postoperative fasting. After the initiation of enteral nutritional therapy, the patient exhibited body weight gain and an improved aorta-SMA angle and CONUT score. Hence, assessment of the aorta-SMA angle and CONUT score is an important preoperative consideration.

High Spatial Resolution Multi-Organ Finite Element Modeling of Ventricular-Arterial Coupling

PubMed Central

Shavik, Sheikh Mohammad; Jiang, Zhenxiang; Baek, Seungik; Lee, Lik Chuan

2018-01-01

While it has long been recognized that bi-directional interaction between the heart and the vasculature plays a critical role in the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system, a comprehensive study of this interaction has largely been hampered by a lack of modeling framework capable of simultaneously accommodating high-resolution models of the heart and vasculature. Here, we address this issue and present a computational modeling framework that couples finite element (FE) models of the left ventricle (LV) and aorta to elucidate ventricular—arterial coupling in the systemic circulation. We show in a baseline simulation that the framework predictions of (1) LV pressure—volume loop, (2) aorta pressure—diameter relationship, (3) pressure—waveforms of the aorta, LV, and left atrium (LA) over the cardiac cycle are consistent with the physiological measurements found in healthy human. To develop insights of ventricular-arterial interactions, the framework was then used to simulate how alterations in the geometrical or, material parameter(s) of the aorta affect the LV and vice versa. We show that changing the geometry and microstructure of the aorta model in the framework led to changes in the functional behaviors of both LV and aorta that are consistent with experimental observations. On the other hand, changing contractility and passive stiffness of the LV model in the framework also produced changes in both the LV and aorta functional behaviors that are consistent with physiology principles. PMID:29551977

Thoracic aortic operations: management of maldistribution of arterial flow during cardiopulmonary bypass.

PubMed

Najafi, H; Veeragandham, R

1997-08-01

On three occasions during operations for aortic aneurysm involving the ascending aorta it was noted that upon the release of the aortic clamp the grafted segment remained collapsed, indicating very little or no flow reaching the lumen of the reconstructed aorta. This was promptly and successfully remedied in 2 patients by perfusing the graft directly with a pediatric arterial catheter attached to a pump head while the femoral arterial line maintained systemic arterial inflow. This simple, safe, and highly effective technique adds to the surgeon's repertoire to manage yet another intriguing intraoperative development during thoracic aortic operations.

77 FR 68788 - Neurological Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-16

... diverting cardiac output to the cerebral vasculature via partial occlusion of the descending aorta... inflation of the individual balloons. The device is placed in the descending aorta. On March 30, 2005, a... the descending aorta (K090970). CoAxia has submitted a de novo application for the NeuroFlo for the...

78 FR 36702 - Cardiovascular Devices; Reclassification of Intra-Aortic Balloon and Control Systems (IABP) for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-19

... the femoral artery and resides in the descending aorta. Conventional timing sets inflation of the... pressure in the aorta. The deflation of the balloon takes place at the onset of systole during the... pressure in the aorta and this decrease in pressure assists the left ventricle by reducing the pressure...

Investigation of hemodynamics in the development of dissecting aneurysm within patient-specific dissecting aneurismal aortas using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations.

PubMed

Tse, Kwong Ming; Chiu, Peixuan; Lee, Heow Pueh; Ho, Pei

2011-03-15

Aortic dissecting aneurysm is one of the most catastrophic cardiovascular emergencies that carries high mortality. It was pointed out from clinical observations that the aneurysm development is likely to be related to the hemodynamics condition of the dissected aorta. In order to gain more insight on the formation and progression of dissecting aneurysm, hemodynamic parameters including flow pattern, velocity distribution, aortic wall pressure and shear stress, which are difficult to measure in vivo, are evaluated using numerical simulations. Pulsatile blood flow in patient-specific dissecting aneurismal aortas before and after the formation of lumenal aneurysm (pre-aneurysm and post-aneurysm) is investigated by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Realistic time-dependent boundary conditions are prescribed at various arteries of the complete aorta models. This study suggests the helical development of false lumen around true lumen may be related to the helical nature of hemodynamic flow in aorta. Narrowing of the aorta is responsible for the massive recirculation in the poststenosis region in the lumenal aneurysm development. High pressure difference of 0.21 kPa between true and false lumens in the pre-aneurismal aorta infers the possible lumenal aneurysm site in the descending aorta. It is also found that relatively high time-averaged wall shear stress (in the range of 4-8 kPa) may be associated with tear initiation and propagation. CFD modeling assists in medical planning by providing blood flow patterns, wall pressure and wall shear stress. This helps to understand various phenomena in the development of dissecting aneurysm. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Collagen-induced arthritis increases inducible nitric oxide synthase not only in aorta but also in the cardiac and renal microcirculation of mice.

PubMed

Palma Zochio Tozzato, G; Taipeiro, E F; Spadella, M A; Marabini Filho, P; de Assis, M R; Carlos, C P; Girol, A P; Chies, A B

2016-03-01

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may promote endothelial dysfunction. This phenomenon requires further investigation, especially in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), as it is considered the experimental model most similar to RA. The objectives of this study were to identify CIA-induced changes in noradrenaline (NE) and acetylcholine (ACh) responses in mice aortas that may suggest endothelial dysfunction in these animals. Moreover, we characterize CIA-induced modifications in inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression in the aortas and cardiac and renal tissues taken from these mice that may be related to possible endothelial dysfunction. Male DBA/1J mice were immunized with 100 μg of emulsified bovine collagen type II (CII) plus complete Freund's adjuvant. Twenty-one days later, these animals received a boost of an additional 100 μg plus incomplete Freund's adjuvant. Fifteen days after the onset of the disease, aortic rings from CIA and control mice were challenged with NE and ACh in an organ bath. In these animals, iNOS was detected through immunohistochemical analysis of aorta, heart and kidneys. Plasma nitrite concentration was determined using the Griess reaction. CIA did not change NE or ACh responses in mice aorta but apparently increased the iNOS expression not only in aorta, but also in cardiac and renal microcirculation. In parallel, CIA reduced nitrite plasma concentration. In mice, CIA appears to increase the presence of iNOS in aorta, as well as in heart and in kidney microcirculation. This iNOS increase occurs apparently in parallel to a reduction of the bioavailability of NO. This phenomenon does not appear to change NE or ACh responses in aorta. © 2015 British Society for Immunology, Clinical and Experimental Immunology.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension in children: diagnosis using ratio of main pulmonary artery to ascending aorta diameter as determined by multi-detector computed tomography.

PubMed

Caro-Domínguez, Pablo; Compton, Gregory; Humpl, Tilman; Manson, David E

2016-09-01

The ratio of the transverse diameter of the main pulmonary artery (MPA) to ascending aorta as determined at multi-detector CT is a tool that can be used to assess the pulmonary arterial size in cases of pulmonary arterial hypertension in children. To establish a ratio of MPA to ascending aorta diameter using multi-detector CT imaging suggestive of pulmonary arterial hypertension in children. We hypothesize that a defined ratio of MPA to ascending aorta is identifiable on multi-detector CT and that higher ratios can be used to reliably diagnose the presence of pulmonary arterial hypertension in children. We calculated the multi-detector CT ratio of MPA to ascending aorta diameter in 44 children with documented pulmonary arterial hypertension by right heart catheterization and in 44 age- and gender-matched control children with no predisposing factors for pulmonary arterial hypertension. We compared this multi-detector-CT-determined ratio with the MPA pressure in the study group, as well as with the ratio of MPA to ascending aorta in the control group. A threshold ratio value was calculated to accurately identify children with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Children with documented primary pulmonary arterial hypertension have a significantly higher ratio of MPA to ascending aorta (1.46) than children without pulmonary arterial hypertension (1.11). A ratio of 1.3 carries a positive likelihood of 34 and a positive predictive value of 97% for the diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension. The pulmonary arteries were larger in children with pulmonary arterial hypertension than in a control group of normal children. A CT-measured ratio of MPA to ascending aorta of 1.3 should raise the suspicion of pulmonary arterial hypertension in children.

Calcification detection of abdominal aorta in CT images and 3D visualization in VR devices.

PubMed

Garcia-Berna, Jose A; Sanchez-Gomez, Juan M; Hermanns, Judith; Garcia-Mateos, Gines; Fernandez-Aleman, Jose L

2016-08-01

Automatic calcification detection in abdominal aorta consists of a set of computer vision techniques to quantify the amount of calcium that is found around this artery. Knowing that information, it is possible to perform statistical studies that relate vascular diseases with the presence of calcium in these structures. To facilitate the detection in CT images, a contrast is usually injected into the circulatory system of the patients to distinguish the aorta from other body tissues and organs. This contrast increases the absorption of X-rays by human blood, making it easier the measurement of calcifications. Based on this idea, a new system capable of detecting and tracking the aorta artery has been developed with an estimation of the calcium found surrounding the aorta. Besides, the system is complemented with a 3D visualization mode of the image set which is designed for the new generation of immersive VR devices.

Atresia of the Descending Aorta in a Young Woman Requiring Bypass Graft.

PubMed

Dsc, Adcasdc Sadfasdf; Mashhood, Ammarah; Ali, Taimur Asif; Fatimi, Saulat Hasnain

2016-11-01

Congenital aortic atresia is a malformation accounting for 4 - 6% of all congenital heart diseases in children. Left ventricular outflow obstruction due to atresia is common at the aortic valve but rarely has atresia been identified in the descending aorta. We report the case of a 25-year woman who was evaluated for headache and uncontrolled hypertension. CTscan chest showed a short atretic segment in the descending aorta at the isthmus, distal to the takeoff of the subclavian artery. She underwent surgery; a 22 mm Dacron graft was taken and jump graft was placed between the arch of the aorta and the descending aorta, using partial occlusion clamps. Patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged on ACE Inhibitors and beta blockers, which were then weaned off over a period of one year. She remained stable and had no further complaints.

Human Aorta Is a Passive Pump

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pahlevan, Niema; Gharib, Morteza

2012-11-01

Impedance pump is a simple valveless pumping mechanism that operates based on the principles of wave propagation and reflection. It has been shown in a zebrafish that a similar mechanism is responsible for the pumping action in the embryonic heart during early stages before valve formation. Recent studies suggest that the cardiovascular system is designed to take advantage of wave propagation and reflection phenomena in the arterial network. Our aim in this study was to examine if the human aorta is a passive pump working like an impedance pump. A hydraulic model with different compliant models of artificial aorta was used for series of in-vitro experiments. The hydraulic model includes a piston pump that generates the waves. Our result indicates that wave propagation and reflection can create pumping mechanism in a compliant aorta. Similar to an impedance pump, the net flow and the flow direction depends on the frequency of the waves, compliance of the aorta, and the piston stroke.

Ergothioneine prevents endothelial dysfunction induced by mercury chloride.

PubMed

Gökçe, Göksel; Arun, Mehmet Zuhuri; Ertuna, Elif

2018-06-01

Exposure to mercury has detrimental effects on the cardiovascular system, particularly the vascular endothelium. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of ergothioneine (EGT) on endothelial dysfunction induced by low-dose mercury chloride (HgCl 2 ). Agonist-induced contractions and relaxations were evaluated in isolated aortic rings from 3-month-old male Wistar rats treated by intra-muscular injection to caudal hind leg muscle with HgCl 2 (first dose, 4.6 µg/kg; subsequent doses, 0.07 µg/kg/day for 15 days) and optionally with EGT (2 µg/kg for 30 days). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) in aortic rings were measured by means of lucigenin- and luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence. The protein level of endothelial nitric oxide synthase was evaluated by ELISA. Blood glutathione (GSH) and catalase levels, lipid peroxidation and total nitrite were measured spectrophotometrically. The results indicated that low-dose HgCl 2 administration impaired acetylcholine (ACh)-induced relaxation and potentiated phenylephrine- and serotonin-induced contractions in rat aortas. In addition, HgCl 2 significantly increased the levels of ROS in the aortic tissue. EGT prevented the loss of ACh-induced relaxations and the increase in contractile responses. These effects were accompanied by a significant decrease in ROS levels. EGT also improved the ratio of reduced GSH to oxidized GSH and catalase levels with a concomitant decrease in lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, the present study was the first to report that EGT prevents endothelial dysfunction induced by low-dose HgCl 2 administration. EGT may serve as a therapeutic tool to reduce mercury-associated cardiovascular complications via improving the antioxidant status.

Effects of phenylpropanoid and iridoid glycosides on free radical-induced impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation in rat aortic rings.

PubMed

Ismailoglu, U B; Saracoglu, I; Harput, U S; Sahin-Erdemli, I

2002-02-01

The protective effect of phenylpropanoid glycosides, forsythoside B and alyssonoside, and the iridoid glycoside lamiide, isolated from the aerial parts of Phlomis pungens var. pungens, against free radical-induced impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation in isolated rat aorta was investigated. Aortic rings were exposed to free radicals by the electrolysis of the physiological bathing solution. Free radical-induced inhibition of the endothelium-dependent relaxation in response to acetylcholine was countered by incubation of the aortic rings before electrolysis with the aqueous extract (200 microg/ml), phenylpropanoid fraction (100 microg/ml) and iridoid fraction (150 microg/ml) of P. pungens var. pungens. Major components of the phenylpropanoid fraction forsythoside B and alyssonoside also prevented the inhibition of the acetylcholine response, at 10(-4) M concentration. However, the major component of iridoid fraction lamiide was found ineffective at the same concentration. The protective activity of phenylpropanoid glycosides against the free radical-induced impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation may be related to their free radical scavenging property.

Three-dimensional thoracic aorta principal strain analysis from routine ECG-gated computerized tomography: feasibility in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

PubMed

Satriano, Alessandro; Guenther, Zachary; White, James A; Merchant, Naeem; Di Martino, Elena S; Al-Qoofi, Faisal; Lydell, Carmen P; Fine, Nowell M

2018-05-02

Functional impairment of the aorta is a recognized complication of aortic and aortic valve disease. Aortic strain measurement provides effective quantification of mechanical aortic function, and 3-dimenional (3D) approaches may be desirable for serial evaluation. Computerized tomographic angiography (CTA) is routinely performed for various clinical indications, and offers the unique potential to study 3D aortic deformation. We sought to investigate the feasibility of performing 3D aortic strain analysis in a candidate population of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Twenty-one patients with severe aortic valve stenosis (AS) referred for TAVR underwent ECG-gated CTA and echocardiography. CTA images were analyzed using a 3D feature-tracking based technique to construct a dynamic aortic mesh model to perform peak principal strain amplitude (PPSA) analysis. Segmental strain values were correlated against clinical, hemodynamic and echocardiographic variables. Reproducibility analysis was performed. The mean patient age was 81±6 years. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 52±14%, aortic valve area (AVA) 0.6±0.3 cm 2 and mean AS pressure gradient (MG) 44±11 mmHg. CTA-based 3D PPSA analysis was feasible in all subjects. Mean PPSA values for the global thoracic aorta, ascending aorta, aortic arch and descending aorta segments were 6.5±3.0, 10.2±6.0, 6.1±2.9 and 3.3±1.7%, respectively. 3D PSSA values demonstrated significantly more impairment with measures of worsening AS severity, including AVA and MG for the global thoracic aorta and ascending segment (p<0.001 for all). 3D PSSA was independently associated with AVA by multivariable modelling. Coefficients of variation for intra- and inter-observer variability were 5.8 and 7.2%, respectively. Three-dimensional aortic PPSA analysis is clinically feasible from routine ECG-gated CTA. Appropriate reductions in PSSA were identified with increasing AS hemodynamic severity. Expanded study of 3D aortic PSSA for patients with various forms of aortic disease is warranted.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress involved in high-fat diet and palmitic acid-induced vascular damages and fenofibrate intervention

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lu, Yunxia, E-mail: wwwdluyx@sina.com; The Comprehensive Laboratory, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032; Cheng, Jingjing

Fenofibrate (FF) is widely used to lower blood lipids in clinical practice, but whether its protective effect on endothelium-dependent vasodilatation (EDV) in thoracic aorta is related with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress remains unknown. In this study, female Sprauge Dawley rats were divided into standard chow diets (SCD), high-fat diets (HFD) and HFD plus FF treatment group (HFD + FF) randomly. The rats of latter two groups were given HFD feeding for 5 months, then HFD + FF rats were treated with FF (30 mg/kg, once daily) via gavage for another 2 months. The pathological and tensional changes, protein expression of eNOS, and ER stress relatedmore » genes in thoracic aorta were measured. Then impacts of palmitic acid (PA) and FF on EDV of thoracic aorta from normal female SD rats were observed. Ultimately the expression of ER stress related genes were assessed in primary mouse aortic endothelial cells (MAEC) treated by fenofibric acid (FA) and PA. We found that FF treatment improved serum lipid levels and pathological changes in thoracic aorta, accompanied with decreased ER stress and increased phosphorylation of eNOS. FF pretreatment also improved EDV impaired by different concentrations of PA treatment. The dose- and time-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation by PA were inverted by FA pretreatment. Phosphorylation of eNOS and expression of ER stress related genes were all inverted by FA pretreatment in PA-treated MAEC. Our findings show that fenofibrate recovers damaged EDV by chronic HFD feeding and acute stimulation of PA, this effect is related with decreased ER stress and increased phosphorylation of eNOS. - Highlights: • Fenofibrate treatment improved pathological changes in thoracic aorta by chronic high-fat-diet feeding. • Fenofibrate pretreatment improved endothelium-dependent vasodilation impaired by different concentrations of palmitic acid. • The inhibition of proliferation in endothelial cells by palmitic acid were inverted by fenofibric acid. • Phosphorylation of eNOS and expression of ER stress related genes were inverted by fenofibrate or fenofibric acid.« less

Combined open proximal and stent-graft distal repair for distal arch aneurysms: an alternative to total debranching.

PubMed

Zierer, Andreas; Sanchez, Luis A; Moon, Marc R

2009-07-01

We present herein a novel, combined, simultaneous open proximal and stent-graft distal repair for complex distal aortic arch aneurysms involving the descending aorta. In the first surgical step, the transverse arch is opened during selective antegrade cerebral perfusion, and a Dacron graft (DuPont, Wilmington, DE) is positioned down the descending aorta in an elephant trunk-like fashion with its proximal free margin sutured circumferentially to the aorta just distal to the left subclavian or left common carotid artery. With the graft serving as the new proximal landing zone, subsequent endovascular repair is performed antegrade during rewarming through the ascending aorta.

Tensile characterisation of the aorta across quasi-static to blast loading strain rates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magnus, Danyal; Proud, William; Haller, Antoine; Jouffroy, Apolline

2017-06-01

The dynamic tensile failure mechanisms of the aorta during Traumatic Aortic Injury (TAI) are poorly understood. In automotive incidents, where the aorta may be under strains of the order of 100/s, TAI is the second largest cause of mortality. In these studies, the proximal descending aorta is the most common site where rupture is observed. In particular, the transverse direction is most commonly affected due to the circumferential orientation of elastin, and hence the literature generally concentrates upon axial samples. This project extends these dynamic studies to the blast loading regime where strain-rates are of the order of 1000/s. A campaign of uniaxial tensile experiments are conducted at quasi-static, intermediate (drop-weight) and high (tensile Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar) strain rates. In each case, murine and porcine aorta models are considered and the extent of damage assessed post-loading using histology. Experimental data will be compared against current viscoelastic models of the aorta under axial stress. Their applicability across strain rates will be discussed. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, the conditions applied to the samples replicate in vivo conditions, employing a blood simulant-filled tubular specimen surrounded by a physiological solution.

Identification of differentially regulated genes in human patent ductus arteriosus

PubMed Central

Parikh, Pratik; Bai, Haiqing; Swartz, Michael F; Alfieris, George M

2016-01-01

In order to identify differentially expressed genes that are specific to the ductus arteriosus, 18 candidate genes were evaluated in matched ductus arteriosus and aortic samples from infants with coarctation of the aorta. The cell specificity of the gene's promoters was assessed by performing transient transfection studies in primary cells derived from several patients. Segments of ductus arteriosus and aorta were isolated from infants requiring repair for coarctation of the aorta and used for mRNA quantitation and culturing of cells. Differences in expression were determined by quantitative PCR using the ΔΔCt method. Promoter regions of six of these genes were cloned into luciferase reporter plasmids for transient transfection studies in matched human ductus arteriosus and aorta cells. Transcription factor AP-2b and phospholipase A2 were significantly up-regulated in ductus arteriosus compared to aorta in whole tissues and cultured cells, respectively. In transient transfection experiments, Angiotensin II type 1 receptor and Prostaglandin E receptor 4 promoters consistently gave higher expression in matched ductus arteriosus versus aorta cells from multiple patients. Taken together, these results demonstrate that several genes are differentially expressed in ductus arteriosus and that their promoters may be used to drive ductus arteriosus-enriched transgene expression. PMID:27465141

Modes of Hypotensive Action of Dihydroquercetin in Arterial Hypertension.

PubMed

Plotnikov, M B; Aliev, O I; Sidekhmenova, A V; Shamanaev, A Yu; Anishchenko, A M; Nosarev, A V; Pushkina, E A

2017-01-01

We studied the effect of dihydroquercetin (20 mg/kg/day intragastrically for 6 weeks) on mean BP and macro- and microrheological blood parameters in hypertensive SHR rats; in vitro effect of dihydroquercetin on the tone in thoracic aorta rings isolated from hypertensive SHR rats were also examined. At the end of the treatment course, the mean BP in the experimental rats decreased by 11%; the left ventricular mass index by 2%, and whole blood viscosity by 7-10% in comparison with control SHR rats; erythrocyte aggregation half-time increased by 15%; plasma viscosity, hematocrit, and erythrocyte deformability did not change. In in vitro experiments, dihydroquercetin (10 -8 -10 -6 M) induced relaxation of the isolated thoracic aorta rings in a dose-dependent manner. Hence, the antihypertensive effect of dihydroquercetin results from the decrease in blood viscosity and vasodilation.

[Effect of urapidil combined with phentolamine on hypertension during extracorporeal circulation].

PubMed

Wang, Fangjun; Chen, Bin; Liu, Yang; Tu, Faping

2014-08-01

To study the effect of urapidil combined with phentolamine in the management of hypertension during extracorporeal circulation. Ninety patients undergoing aortic and mitral valve replacement were randomly divided into 3 equal groups to receive treatment with phentolamine (group A), urapidil (group B), or both (group C) during extracorporeal circulation. The mean arterial pressure (MAP) before and after drug administration, time interval of two administrations, spontaneous recovery of heart beat after aorta unclamping, ventricular arrhythmia, changes of ST-segment 1 min after the recovery of heart beat, ante-parallel cycle time, aorta clamping time, post-parallel cycle time, dopamine dose after cardiac resuscitation, and perioperative changes of plasma TNF-α and IL-6 levels were recorded. There was no significant difference in MAP between the 3 groups before or after hypotensive drug administration (P>0.05). The time interval of two hypotensive drug administrations was longer in group C than in groups A and B (P<0.05). The incidence of spontaneous recovery of heart beat after aorta unclamping, incidence of ventricular arrhythmia, changes of ST-segment 1 min after the recovery of heart beat, ante-parallel cycle time, aorta clamping time, and post-parallel cycle time were all comparable between the 3 groups. The dose of dopamine administered after cardiac resuscitation was significantly larger in group B than in groups A or group C (P<0.05). The plasma levels of TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly increased after CPB and after the operation in all the groups, but were lowed in group C than in groups A and B at the end of CPB and at 2 h and 12 after the operation. Urapidil combined with phentolamine can control hypertension during extracorporeal circulation without causing hypotension.

Role of inducible nitric oxide synthase in endothelium‐independent relaxation to raloxifene in rat aorta

PubMed Central

Au, Chak Leung; Tsang, Suk Ying; Lau, Chi Wai; Yao, Xiaoqiang; Cai, Zongwei

2017-01-01

Background and Purpose Raloxifene can induce both endothelium‐dependent and ‐independent relaxation in different arteries. However, the underlying mechanisms by which raloxifene triggers endothelium‐independent relaxation are still incompletely understood. The purpose of present study was to examine the roles of NOSs and Ca2+ channels in the relaxant response to raloxifene in the rat isolated, endothelium‐denuded aorta. Experimental Approach Changes in isometric tension, cGMP, nitrite, inducible NOS protein expression and distribution in response to raloxifene in endothelium‐denuded aortic rings were studied by organ baths, radioimmunoassay, Griess reaction, western blot and immunohistochemistry respectively. Key Results Raloxifene reduced the contraction to CaCl2 in a Ca2+‐free, high K+‐containing solution in intact aortic rings. Raloxifene also acutely relaxed the aorta primarily through an endothelium‐independent mechanism involving NO, mostly from inducible NOS (iNOS) in vascular smooth muscle layers. This effect of raloxifene involved the generation of cGMP and nitrite. Also, it was genomic in nature, as it was inhibited by a classical oestrogen receptor antagonist and inhibitors of RNA and protein synthesis. Raloxifene‐induced stimulation of iNOS gene expression was partly mediated through activation of the NF‐κB pathway. Raloxifene was more potent than 17β‐estradiol or tamoxifen at relaxing endothelium‐denuded aortic rings by stimulation of iNOS. Conclusions and Implications Raloxifene‐mediated vasorelaxation in rat aorta is independent of a functional endothelium and is mediated by oestrogen receptors and NF‐κB. This effect is mainly mediated through an enhanced production of NO, cGMP and nitrite, via the induction of iNOS and inhibition of calcium influx through Ca2+ channels in rat aortic smooth muscle. PMID:28138957

Changes of jugular venous blood temperature associated with measurements of cerebral blood flow using the transcerebral double-indicator dilution technique.

PubMed

Mielck, F; Bräuer, A; Radke, O; Hanekop, G; Loesch, S; Friedrich, M; Hilgers, R; Sonntag, H

2004-04-01

The transcerebral double-indicator dilution technique is a recently developed method to measure global cerebral blood flow at bedside. It is based on bolus injection of ice-cold indocyanine green dye and simultaneous recording of resulting thermo- and dye-dilution curves in the aorta and the jugular bulb. However, with this method 40 mL of ice-cold solution is administered as a bolus. Therefore, this prospective clinical study was performed to elucidate the effects of repeated administration of indicator on absolute blood temperature and on cerebral blood flow and metabolism. The investigation was performed in nine male patients scheduled for elective coronary artery bypass grafting. Absolute blood temperature was measured in the jugular bulb and in the aorta before and after repeated measurements using the transcerebral double-indicator dilution technique. During the investigated time course, the blood temperature in the jugular bulb, compared to the aorta, was significantly higher with a mean difference of 0.21 degrees C. The administration of an ice-cold bolus reduced the mean blood temperature by 0.06 degrees C in the jugular bulb as well as in the aorta. After the transcerebral double-indicator dilution measurements a temperature recovery to baseline conditions was not observed during the investigated time period. Cerebral blood flow and cerebral metabolism did not change during the investigated time period. Repeated measurements with the transcerebral double-indicator dilution technique do not affect absolute jugular bulb blood temperatures negatively. Global cerebral blood flow and metabolism measurements remain unaltered. However, accuracy and resolution of this technique is not high enough to detect the effect of minor changes of physiological variables.

Wave energy patterns of counterpulsation: a novel approach with wave intensity analysis.

PubMed

Lu, Pong-Jeu; Yang, Chi-Fu Jeffrey; Wu, Meng-Yu; Hung, Chun-Hao; Chan, Ming-Yao; Hsu, Tzu-Cheng

2011-11-01

In counterpulsation, diastolic augmentation increases coronary blood flow and systolic unloading reduces left ventricular afterload. We present a new approach with wave intensity analysis to revisit and explain counterpulsation principles. In an acute porcine model, a standard intra-aortic balloon pump was placed in descending aorta in 4 pigs. We measured pressure and velocity with probes in left anterior descending artery and aorta during and without intra-aortic balloon pump assistance. Wave intensities of aortic and left coronary waves were derived from pressure and flow measurements with synchronization correction. We identified predominating waves in counterpulsation. In the aorta, during diastolic augmentation, intra-aortic balloon inflation generated a backward compression wave, with a "pushing" effect toward the aortic root that translated to a forward compression wave into coronary circulation. During systolic unloading, intra-aortic balloon pump deflation generated a backward expansion wave that "sucked" blood from left coronary bed into the aorta. While this backward expansion wave translated to reduced left ventricular afterload, the "sucking" effect resulted in left coronary blood steal, as demonstrated by a forward expansion wave in left anterior descending coronary flow. The waves were sensitive to inflation and deflation timing, with just 25 ms delay from standard deflation timing leading to weaker forward expansion wave and less coronary regurgitation. Intra-aortic balloon pumps generate backward-traveling waves that predominantly drive aortic and coronary blood flow during counterpulsation. Wave intensity analysis of arterial circulations may provide a mechanism to explain diastolic augmentation and systolic unloading of intra-aortic balloon pump counterpulsation. Copyright © 2011 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

In vitro investigation of a novel elastic vascular prosthesis for valve-sparing aortic root and ascending aorta replacement.

PubMed

Scharfschwerdt, Michael; Leonhard, Moritz; Lehmann, Judith; Richardt, Doreen; Goldmann, Helmut; Sievers, Hans-Hinrich

2016-05-01

Prosthetic replacement of the thoracic aorta with common Dacron prostheses impairs the aortic 'windkessel' and, in valve-sparing procedures, also aortic valve function. Elastic graft material may overcome these deficiencies. Fresh porcine aortas including the root were set up in a mock circulation before and after replacement of the ascending part with a novel vascular prosthesis providing elastic behaviours. In a first series (n = 14), haemodynamics and leaflet motions of the aortic valve were investigated and also cyclic changes of aortic dimensions at different levels of the root. In a second series (n = 7), intravascular pressure and dimensions of the proximal descending aorta were measured and the corresponding wall tension was calculated. Haemodynamics of the aortic valve remain comparable after replacement. Though the novel prosthesis does not feature such high distensibility as the native aorta, the dynamic of the root was significantly increased compared with common Dacron prostheses at the commissural level, preserving 'windkessel' function. Thus, wall tension of the residual aorta remained unchanged; nevertheless, maximum pressure-time differential dp/dt increased by 13%. The use of the novel elastic prosthesis for replacement of the ascending aorta seems to be beneficial, especially with regard to the preservation of the aortic windkessel. Further studies will be needed to clarify long-term utilization of the material in vivo. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

[Therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Opuntia dillenii Haw on atherosclerosis of rats].

PubMed

Wang, Yu-chun; Qi, Zhan-peng; Liu, Zhen-zhong; Li, Tao; Cui, Hong-xia; Wang, Bao-qing; Chi, Na

2015-04-01

The research aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Opuntia dillenii Haw polysaccharide (OPS) on atherosclerosis of rats. First atherosclerotic rat models were established by high-fat and high-calcium diet. Thirty days later, the rats were treated with low dosage of OPS (0.2 g x kg(-1) x d(-1)) or high dosage of OPS (0.4 g x kg(-1) x d(-1)) by intraperitoneal injection for 60 days continuously. At the end of treatment, thoracic aorta rings were prepared and vasorelaxation of rat thoracic aorta in different experiment groups were determined by using 620M multi wire myograph system in vitro. Blood and livers of rats were collected. Then plasma levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) of rats were separately determined using whole automatic biochemical analyzer; protein level of hepatic apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and that of hepatic diglyceride acyltransferase (Dgat1) were measured by Western Blot technique. Results showed that the ability of rat thoracic aorta to relax decreased markedly in the model group compared with that in the normal group, and significant differences existed in vasorelaxation ratios induced by different concentrations of carbamylcholine chloride (Carb) between these two groups (P < 0.01). After OPS treatment, the ability of rat thoracic aorta to relax improved markedly, the vasorelaxation ratios induced by Carb at 5 and 10 μmol x L(-1) were respectively 0.34 ± 0.08 and 0.62 ± 0.15 in the group treated with low dosage of OPS, while the ratios induced by Carb at 1 and 5 μmol x L(-1) were respectively 0.54 ± 0.08 and 0.98 ± 0.02 in the group treated with high dosage of OPS, which were all significantly different with those in the model group (P < 0.01). Plasma contents of TC, TG and LDL reduced significantly by the treatments both with low and high dosages of OPS compared with those in the model group (P < 0.01). Protein level of hepatic ApoB and that of hepatic Dgat1 decreased significantly after the treatment with high dosage of OPS compared with those in the model group (P < 0.01). These results indicate that OPS can markedly improve the vasorelaxation of thoracic aorta of atherosclerotic rats and has significant anti-atherosclerotic effect; inhibiting the expression of ApoB and Dgat1 and thus decreasing the amounts of TC, LDL and TG serving as one of the molecular mechanisms of its antiatherosclerosis effect.

Adaptive induction of NF-E2-related factor-2-driven antioxidant genes in endothelial cells in response to hyperglycemia.

PubMed

Ungvari, Zoltan; Bailey-Downs, Lora; Gautam, Tripti; Jimenez, Rosario; Losonczy, Gyorgy; Zhang, Cuihua; Ballabh, Praveen; Recchia, Fabio A; Wilkerson, Donald C; Sonntag, William E; Pearson, Kevin; de Cabo, Rafael; Csiszar, Anna

2011-04-01

Hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus promotes oxidative stress in endothelial cells, which contributes to development of cardiovascular diseases. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor activated by oxidative stress that regulates expression of numerous reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxifying and antioxidant genes. This study was designed to elucidate the homeostatic role of adaptive induction of Nrf2-driven free radical detoxification mechanisms in endothelial protection under diabetic conditions. Using a Nrf2/antioxidant response element (ARE)-driven luciferase reporter gene assay we found that in a cultured coronary arterial endothelial cell model hyperglycemia (10-30 mmol/l glucose) significantly increases transcriptional activity of Nrf2 and upregulates the expression of the Nrf2 target genes NQO1, GCLC, and HMOX1. These effects of high glucose were significantly attenuated by small interfering RNA (siRNA) downregulation of Nrf2 or overexpression of Keap-1, which inactivates Nrf2. High-glucose-induced upregulation of NQO1, GCLC, and HMOX1 was also prevented by pretreatment with polyethylene glycol (PEG)-catalase or N-acetylcysteine, whereas administration of H(2)O(2) mimicked the effect of high glucose. To test the effects of metabolic stress in vivo, Nrf2(+/+) and Nrf2(-/-) mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD). HFD elicited significant increases in mRNA expression of Gclc and Hmox1 in aortas of Nrf2(+/+) mice, but not Nrf2(-/-) mice, compared with respective standard diet-fed control mice. Additionally, HFD-induced increases in vascular ROS levels were significantly greater in Nrf2(-/-) than Nrf2(+/+) mice. HFD-induced endothelial dysfunction was more severe in Nrf2(-/-) mice, as shown by the significantly diminished acetylcholine-induced relaxation of aorta of these animals compared with HFD-fed Nrf2(+/+) mice. Our results suggest that adaptive activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway confers endothelial protection under diabetic conditions.

Exercise aggravates cardiovascular risks and mortality in rats with disrupted nitric oxide pathway and treated with recombinant human erythropoietin.

PubMed

Meziri, Fayçal; Binda, Delphine; Touati, Sabeur; Pellegrin, Maxime; Berthelot, Alain; Touyz, Rhian M; Laurant, Pascal

2011-08-01

Chronic administration of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) can generate serious cardiovascular side effects such as arterial hypertension (HTA) in clinical and sport fields. It is hypothesized that nitric oxide (NO) can protect from noxious cardiovascular effects induced by chronic administration of rHuEPO. On this base, we studied the cardiovascular effects of chronic administration of rHuEPO in exercise-trained rats treated with an inhibitor of NO synthesis (L-NAME). Rats were treated or not with rHuEPO and/or L-NAME during 6 weeks. During the same period, rats were subjected to treadmill exercise. The blood pressure was measured weekly. Endothelial function of isolated aorta and small mesenteric arteries were studied and the morphology of the latter was investigated. L-NAME induced hypertension (197 ± 6 mmHg, at the end of the protocol). Exercise prevented the rise in blood pressure induced by L-NAME (170 ± 5 mmHg). However, exercise-trained rats treated with both rHuEPO and L-NAME developed severe hypertension (228 ± 9 mmHg). Furthermore, in these exercise-trained rats treated with rHuEPO/L-NAME, the acetylcholine-induced relaxation was markedly impaired in isolated aorta (60% of maximal relaxation) and small mesenteric arteries (53%). L-NAME hypertension induced an internal remodeling of small mesenteric arteries that was not modified by exercise, rHuEPO or both. Vascular ET-1 production was not increased in rHuEPO/L-NAME/training hypertensive rats. Furthermore, we observed that rHuEPO/L-NAME/training hypertensive rats died during the exercise or the recovery period (mortality 51%). Our findings suggest that the use of rHuEPO in sport, in order to improve physical performance, represents a high and fatal risk factor, especially with pre-existing cardiovascular risk.

Beneficial role of tamoxifen in experimentally induced cardiac hypertrophy.

PubMed

Patel, Bhoomika M; Desai, Vishal J

2014-04-01

Protein kinase C (PKC) activation is associated with cardiac hypertrophy (CH), fibrosis, inflammation and cardiac dysfunction. Tamoxifen is a PKC inhibitor. Despite these, reports on effect of tamoxifen on cardiac hypertrophy are not available. Hence, we have investigated effect of tamoxifen (2mg/kg/day, po) on CH. In isoproterenol (ISO) induced CH, ISO (5mg/kg/day, ip) was administered for 10 days in Wistar rats. For partial abdominal aortic constriction (PAAC), abdominal aorta was ligated by 4-0 silk thread around 7.0mm diameter blunt needle. Then the needle was removed to leave the aorta partially constricted for 30 days. Tamoxifen was given for 10 days and 30 days, respectively, in ISO and PAAC models and at end of each studies, animals were sacrificed and biochemical and cardiac parameters were evaluated. ISO and PAAC produced significant dyslipidemia, hypertension, bradycardia, oxidative stress and increase in serum lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase-MB, C-reactive protein. Treatment with tamoxifen significantly controlled dyslipidemia, hypertension, bradycardia, oxidative stress and reduced serum cardiac markers. ISO control and PAAC control rats exhibited significantly increased cardiac and left ventricular (LV) hypertrophic index, LV thickness, cardiomyocyte diameter. Treatment with tamoxifen significantly reduced these hypertrophic indices. There was a significant increase in LV collagen level, decrease in Na(+)K(+)ATPase activity, and reduction in the rate of pressure development and decay. Tamoxifen significantly reduced LV collagen, increased Na(+)K(+)ATPase activity and improved hemodynamic function. This was further supported by histopathological studies, in which tamoxifen showed marked decrease in fibrosis and increase in extracellular spaces in the treated animals. Our data suggest that tamoxifen produces beneficial effects on cardiac hypertrophy and hence may be considered as a preventive measure for cardiac hypertrophy. Copyright © 2014 Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved.

In-situ laser fenestration of endovascular stent-graft in abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Micheletti, Filippo; Pini, Roberto; Piazza, Roberta; Ferrari, Vincenzo; Condino, Sara; Rossi, Francesca

2017-02-01

Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysms repair (EVAR) involves the minimally invasive implantation of a stent-graft within the aorta to exclude the aneurysm from the circulation thus preventing its rupture. The feasibility of such operation is highly dependent on the aorta morphology and in general the presence of one/both renal arteries emerging from the aneurysm is the absolute limit for the implantation of a standard stent-graft. Consequently, classical intervention methods involve the implantation of a custom-made graft with fenestrations, leading to extremely complicated surgeries with high risks for the patient and high costs. Recent techniques introduced the use of standard grafts (i.e. without fenestrations) in association with mechanical in-situ fenestration, but this procedure is limited principally by the brittleness and low stability of the environment, in addition to the difficulty of controlling the guidance of the endovascular tools due to the temporarily block of the blood flow. In this work we propose an innovative EVAR strategy, which involves in-situ fenestration with a fiber guided laser tool, controlled via an electromagnetic navigation system. The fiber is sensorized to be tracked by means of the driving system and, using a 3D model of the patient anatomy, the surgeon can drive the fiber to the aneurysm, where the stent has been previously released, to realize the proper fenestration(s). The design and construction of the catheter laser tool will be presented, togheter with preliminary fenestration tests on graft-materials, including the effects due to the presence of blood and tissues.

[Effect of compound Danshen dripping pills combined with atorvastatin on restenosis after angioplasty in rabbits].

PubMed

Song, Jieli; Zeng, Jinpei; Zhang, Yongxia; Li, Pengfei; Zhang, Lihong; Chen, Cibin

2014-08-01

To study the effect of compound Danshen dripping pills and atorvastatin on restenosis after abdominal aorta angioplasty in rabbits. Rabbit models of abdominal aorta restenosis after angioplasty were established and treated with saline (group A), compound Danshen dripping pills (group B), atorvastatin (group C), or compound Danshen dripping pills plus atorvastatin (group D). HE staining was used to determine the thickness of arterial intimal hyperplasia and assess the morphological changes of the narrowed artery. Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect the expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). Compared with group A, the 3 treatment groups showed significant increased vascular cavity area and reduced intimal area and percentage of intimal hyperplasia (P<0.05). The vascular cavity area, intimal area and percentage of intimal hyperplasia levels differed significantly between group D and groups B and C (P<0.05). Immunohistochemistry showed a significant reduction of the expression rate of NF-κB and MCP-1 in the 3 treatment groups compared with group A (P<0.05), and the reduction was especially obvious in group D (P<0.05). Compound danshen dripping pills combined with atorvastatin produces better effects than the drugs used alone in inhibiting vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation in rabbits after abdominal aorta angioplasty possibly due to a decreased expression of MCP-1 as a result of NF-κB inhibition.

Evaluation of the Possible Mechanisms of Antihypertensive Activity of Loranthus micranthus: An African Mistletoe

PubMed Central

Iwalokun, Bamidele A.; Hodonu, Sedoten A.; Nwoke, Stella; Ojo, Olabisi; Agomo, Phillip U.

2011-01-01

Loranthus micranthus (LM), also called African mistletoe is a major Nigerian Loranthaceae plant used traditionally to treat hypertension. The methanolic leaf extract of the plant (LMME) has been shown to elicit anti-hypertensive activity in rats but mechanism remains unclear. This study was undertaken to study the effect of LM on pressor-induced contraction of rat aorta smooth muscles and serum lipid profiles in mice. The LMME was partitioned to produce n-butanol (NBF-LMME), chloroform (CF-LMME), ethyl acetate (EAF-LMME) and water (WF-LMME) fractions. The median effective concentrations and maximum relaxation of the fractions were determined against epinephrine and KCl pre-contracted rat aorta ring model. Serum lipid profiles and nitric oxide (NO) were determined spectrophotometrically in mice administered per orally 250 mg/kg b.w. of each fraction for 21 days. Data were analyzed statistically. NBF-LMME elicited the highest dose-dependent inhibitory effect on rat aorta pre-contracted with norepinephrine and KCl, followed in decreasing order by WF-LMME > CF-LMME > EAF-LMME. Similar order of activity was observed in the ability of these fractions to inhibit elevation in artherogenic lipids, raise serum nitric oxide and reduce cardiac arginase in mice. We conclude the anti-hypertensive activity of L. micranthus involve anti-artherogenic events, vasorelaxation, cardiac arginase reduction and NO elevation. PMID:21918720

Treatment of Neuropathic Pain after SCI with a Catalytic Oxidoreductant

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

opening the scissor. The thoracic aorta was visualized and a small aneurysm clip was placed on the aorta at the level of T8 to induce ischemic injury...into aorta via left ventricle and a small cut was made on right atrium. The vasculature was 6 | P a g e     briefly rinsed with 60 mL saline by

Obstruction of the Aorta and Left Pulmonary Artery After Gianturco Coil Occlusion of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kuo, H.-Cg; Ko, Sheung-Fat; Wu, Yu-Tsun

We report an unusual case of simultaneous obstruction of the left pulmonary artery and descending thoracic aorta after Gianturco coil occlusion in a 15-month-old boy. The diagnosis was made by echocardiography and cardiac angiography. At surgery, thrombi coating on the protruded parts of the Gianturco coil in the pulmonary artery and aorta were found.

Aberrant heartworm migration to the abdominal aorta and systemic arteriolitis in a dog presenting with vomiting and hemorrhagic diarrhea.

PubMed

Grimes, Janet A; Scott, Katherine D; Edwards, John F

2016-01-01

A 2-year-old Dachshund was presented for vomiting and diarrhea. Abdominal ultrasound revealed Dirofilaria immitis in the abdominal aorta and an avascular segment of small intestine. The dog was euthanized. Necropsy revealed D. immitis in the abdominal aorta and widespread necrotizing arteriolitis. This is a unique presentation of aberrant migration of D. immitis.

The Position of the Aorta Relative to the Vertebrae in Patients With Lenke Type 1 Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

PubMed

Bekki, Hirofumi; Harimaya, Katsumi; Matsumoto, Yoshihiro; Hayashida, Mitsumasa; Okada, Seiji; Doi, Toshio; Iwamoto, Yukihide

2016-04-01

A computed tomography study. The aim of the study was to clarify the position of the aorta relative to the spine in patients with Lenke type 1 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Several authors have examined the position of the aorta in patients with scoliosis; however, their analysis included several types of curve. There is a possibility that the position of the aorta differs according to the scoliosis curve type. Thirty-eight patients with Lenke type 1 were analyzed. The angle (left pedicle aorta [LtP-Ao] angle) and distance (LtP-Ao distance) from the insertion point of the left pedicle screw to the aorta were measured from T4 through L2. The measured data were evaluated from 4 levels above to 4 levels below the apical vertebra. The difference between lumbar modifiers A and C was examined. Dangerous pedicles, which were defined as those in which the aorta entered the expected area based on the screw direction error and length, were counted from T10 to L2. The aorta was located posterolaterally and adjacent to the vertebra at the middle thoracic level, and anteromedially and distant at the thoracolumbar level. LtP-Ao angle was largest at 1 level above the apical vertebra, and LtP-Ao distance was shortest at 2 levels above. LtP-Ao angle of Lenke 1A was significantly larger than 1C from T11 to L2, and LtP-Ao distance of 1A was significantly shorter than 1C from T11 to L1. When the screw length was 40 mm and the direction error was within 10°, there were a large number of dangerous pedicles at T11, regardless of the lumbar modifier. The direction error has a potential risk of injuring the aorta around the apical vertebra. The selection of screws of the proper length is necessary to avoid a breach of the anterior vertebral wall at thoracolumbar level, especially at T11. 3.

A comparison of age-related changes in axial prestretch in human carotid arteries and in human abdominal aorta.

PubMed

Horný, Lukáš; Adámek, Tomáš; Kulvajtová, Markéta

2017-02-01

It is known that large arteries in situ are subjected to significant axial prestretch. This prestretch plays an important physiological role in optimizing the biomechanical response of an artery. It is also known that the prestretch declines with age. However, a detailed description of age-related changes in prestretch is available only for the abdominal aorta and for the femoropliteal artery. Our study presents results of measurements of axial prestretch in 229 left common carotid arteries excised in autopsies. It was found that the prestretch of the carotid artery correlates significantly with age ([Formula: see text], p value < 0.001). A linear regression model was used to fit the observations. Simultaneously with the measurement of the prestretch in the carotid artery, the axial prestretch was also measured in abdominal aorta. By comparing data obtained from these locations, it was concluded that the axial prestretch in the carotid artery is greater than in the abdominal aorta, and that atherosclerosis develops more rapidly in the abdominal aorta than in the carotid artery. Histological sections obtained from 8 carotid arteries and aortas suggest that the medial layer of the left common carotid artery is significantly thinner than aortic media (median/IQR: 0.343/0.086 vs. 0.482/0.172 mm, [Formula: see text] in Wilcoxon signed-rank test) and simultaneously that carotid media contains a lower number of elastic membranes (median/IQR: 26.5/11.8 vs. 31.5/11.8, [Formula: see text] in the Wilcoxon signed-rank test). This could be a reason for the different extent of the prestretch observed in aorta and in carotid artery. Our data sample also contains 5 measurements of the axial prestretch in abdominal aortas suffering from an aneurysm. It was found that aneurysmatic aortas also exhibit axial retraction when excised from in situ position. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that detailed data characterizing axial prestretch of the human left common carotid artery have been presented.

Initial Experience of the Application of Automated Tube Potential Selection Technique in High-pitch Dual-source CT Angiography of Whole Aorta Using Third-generation Dual-source CT Scanner.

PubMed

Kong, Lingyan; Liang, Jixiang; Xue, Huadan; Wang, Yining; Wang, Yun; Jin, Zhengyu; Zhang, Daming; Chen, Jin

2017-02-20

Objective To evaluate the application of automated tube potential selection technique in high-pitch dual-source CT aortic angiography on a third-generation dual-source CT scanner. Methods Whole aorta angiography were indiated in 59 patients,who were divided into 2 groups using a simple random method:in group 1 there were 31 patients who underwent the examination with automated tube potential selection using a vascular setting with a preferred image quality of 288 mA/100 kV;in group 2 there were 28 patients who underwent the examination with a tube voltage of 100 kV and automated tube current modulation using a reference tube current of 288 mA. Both groups were scanned on a third generation dual-source CT device operated in dual-source high-pitch ECG-gating mode with a pitch of 3.0,collimation of 2×192×0.6 mm,and a rotation time of 0.25 s. Iterative reconstruction algorithm was used. For group 1,the volume and flow of contrast medium and chasing saline were adapted to the tube voltage. For group 2,a contrast material bolus of 45 ml with a flow of 4.5 ml/s followed by a 50 ml saline chaser at 5 ml/s was used. CTA scan was automatically started using a bolus tracking technique at the level of the original part of aorta after a trigger threshold of 100 HU was reached. The start delay was set to 6 s in both groups. Effective dose (ED),signal to noise ratio (SNR),contrast to noise ratio (CNR),and subjective diagnostic quality of both groups were evaluated. Results The mean ED were 21.3% lower (t=-3.099,P=0.000) in group 1 [(2.48±0.80) mSv] than in group 2 [(3.15±0.86) mSv]. Two groups showed no significant difference in attenuation,SD,SNR,or CNR at all evaluational parts of aorta (ascending aorta,aortic arch,diaphragmatic aorta,or iliac bifurcation)(all P>0.05). There was no significant difference in subjective diagnostic quality values of two groups [(1.41±0.50) scores vs. (1.39±0.50) scores;W=828.5,P=0.837]. Conclusion Compared with automated tube current modulation,the automated tube potential selection technique in aorta CT angiography on a third-generation dual-source CT can dramatically reduce radiation dose without affecting image quality.

Sub-therapeutic doses of fluvastatin and valsartan are more effective than therapeutic doses in providing beneficial cardiovascular pleiotropic effects in rats: A proof of concept study.

PubMed

Janić, Miodrag; Lunder, Mojca; France Štiglic, Alenka; Jerin, Aleš; Skitek, Milan; Černe, Darko; Marc, Janja; Drevenšek, Gorazd; Šabovič, Mišo

2017-12-01

Statins and sartans can, in therapeutic doses, induce pleiotropic cardiovascular effects. Similar has recently been shown also for sub-therapeutic doses. We thus explored and compared the cardiovascular pleiotropic efficacy of sub-therapeutic vs. therapeutic doses. Wistar rats were randomly divided into 7 groups receiving fluvastatin, valsartan and their combination in sub-therapeutic and therapeutic doses, or saline. After 6weeks, the animals were euthanised, their hearts and thoracic aortas isolated, and blood samples taken. Endothelium-dependent relaxation of the thoracic aortae and ischaemic-reperfusion injury of the isolated hearts were assessed along with the related serum parameters and genes expression. Fluvastatin and valsartan alone or in combination were significantly more effective in sub-therapeutic than therapeutic doses. The sub-therapeutic combination greatly increased thoracic aorta endothelium-dependent relaxation and maximally protected the isolated hearts against ischaemia-reperfusion injury and was thus most effective. Beneficial effects were accompanied by increased levels of nitric oxide (NO) and decreased levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) in the serum (again prominently induced by the sub-therapeutic combination). Furthermore, nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS3) and endothelin receptor type A (EDNRA) genes expression increased, but only in both combination groups and without significant differences between them. In the therapeutic dose groups, fluvastatin and valsartan decreased cholesterol values and systolic blood pressure. Sub-therapeutic doses of fluvastatin and valsartan are more effective in expressing cardiovascular pleiotropic effects than therapeutic doses of fluvastatin and/or valsartan. These results could be of significant clinical relevance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Severe Obstructive Calcification of the Descending Aorta: A Case Report of “Coral Reef Aorta”

PubMed Central

Ishigaki, Takahiro; Matsuda, Hitoshi; Henmi, Soichiro; Yoshida, Masato; Mukohara, Nobuhiko

2017-01-01

An 82-year-old man suffering from lower back pain and dyspnea presented to our institute in a state of shock. Computed tomography showed subtotal occlusion of the descending aorta with massive atherosclerotic calcification. As the proximal portion of the superior mesenteric artery was obstructed, emergency bypass from the right axillary artery to the bilateral external iliac arteries was performed, but the patient died 2 days later. Autopsy revealed that reddish-brown and verrucous masses obstructed the descending aorta, and high-grade thickening of the intima and extensive deposits of calcium in the lumina and medial layer were detected in the descending aorta histologically. PMID:29034045

Ca2+-dependent nitric oxide release in the injured endothelium of excised rat aorta: a promising mechanism applying in vascular prosthetic devices in aging patients

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Nitric oxide is key to endothelial regeneration, but it is still unknown whether endothelial cell (EC) loss results in an increase in NO levels at the wound edge. We have already shown that endothelial damage induces a long-lasting Ca2+ entry into surviving cells though connexin hemichannels (CxHcs) uncoupled from their counterparts on ruptured cells. The physiological outcome of injury-induced Ca2+ inflow is, however, unknown. Methods In this study, we sought to determine whether and how endothelial scraping induces NO production (NOP) in the endothelium of excised rat aorta by exploiting the NO-sensitive fluorochrome, DAF-FM diacetate and the Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent dye, Fura-2/AM. Results We demonstrated that injury-induced NOP at the lesion site is prevented in presence of the endothelial NO synthase inhibitor, L-NAME, and in absence of extracellular Ca2+. Unlike ATP-dependent NO liberation, the NO response to injury is insensitive to BTP-2, which selectively blocks store-operated Ca2+ inflow. However, injury-induced NOP is significantly reduced by classic gap junction blockers, and by connexin mimetic peptides specifically targeting Cx37Hcs, Cx40HCs, and Cx43Hcs. Moreover, disruption of caveolar integrity prevents injury-elicited NO signaling, but not the accompanying Ca2+ response. Conclusions The data presented provide the first evidence that endothelial scraping stimulates NO synthesis at the wound edge, which might both exert an immediate anti-thrombotic and anti-inflammatory action and promote the subsequent re-endothelialization. PMID:24266895

Epiaortic fat pad area: A novel index for the dimensions of the ascending aorta.

PubMed

Toufan, Mehrnoush; Pourafkari, Leili; Boudagh, Shabnam; Nader, Nader D

2016-06-01

We sought to investigate the possible association between the area of the epiaortic fat pad (EAFP) and dimensions of the ascending aorta. A total of 193 individuals underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) prospectively. The area of the EAFP was traced anterior to the aortic root and correlated with the diameter of the aorta. The mean area of the EAFP was 5.16 ± 2.28 cm(2) Absolute and indexed dimensions of the ascending aorta had a significant correlation with the area of the EAFP (p <0.001 for all). In a multivariate linear regression model, age >65 (p <0.001), body mass index >30 kg/m(2) (p = 0.02) and a history of hyperlipidemia (p = 0.003) were identified as independent predictors of the area for EAFP. In conclusion, both the absolute and indexed diameters of the ascending aorta at the different segments that directly come into contact with the EAFP linearly correlate with the area of the EAFP measured by TTE. © The Author(s) 2016.

Selenium Deficiency Influences the Expression of Selenoproteins and Inflammatory Cytokines in Chicken Aorta Vessels.

PubMed

Du, Qiang; Yao, Haidong; Yao, Linlin; Zhang, Ziwei; Lei, Xingen; Xu, Shiwen

2016-10-01

Selenium deficiency is known to cause cardiovascular diseases. However, the role of Se deficiency in causing oxidative damage and inflammation injury to the aorta vessels of chickens is not well known. In the present study, 180 1-day-old chickens were randomly divided into two groups, a low-Se group (L group) and a control-Se group (C group). The messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of 25 selenoproteins, the mRNA and protein expression levels of inflammatory cytokines (including NF-κB, TNF-α, COX-2, and PTGES), and the antioxidant levels in chicken aorta vessels were examined. The results showed that the mRNA levels of 25 selenoproteins and the activity of Gpx were decreased, while the mRNA and protein expression levels of inflammatory cytokines and the MDA content were increased by Se deficiency in chicken aorta vessels. The data from the present study indicated that Se deficiency decreases the expression of selenoproteins, reduces antioxidant function, and increases the expression of inflammatory factors in chicken aorta vessels.

Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta: A Bridge to Flight Survival.

PubMed

Goforth, Carl; Bradley, Matthew; Pineda, Benilani; See, Suzanne; Pasley, Jason

2018-04-01

Trauma endures as the leading cause of death worldwide, and most deaths occur in the first 24 hours after initial injury as a result of hemorrhage. Historically, about 90% of battlefield deaths occur before the injured person arrives at a theater hospital, and most are due to noncompressible hemorrhage of the torso. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta is an evolving technique to quickly place a balloon into the thoracic or abdominal aorta to efficiently block blood flow to distal circulation. Maneuvers, such as resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta, to control endovascular hemorrhage offer a potential intervention to control noncompressible hemorrhage. This technique can be performed percutaneously or open in prehospital environments to restore hemodynamic functions and serve as a survival bridge until the patient is delivered to a treatment facility for definitive surgical hemostasis. This article describes the indications, complications, and application of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta to military and civilian aeromedical transport. ©2018 American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.

Reduction of thoracic aorta motion artifact with high-pitch 128-slice dual-source computed tomographic angiography: a historical control study.

PubMed

Nakagawa, Junichiro; Tasaki, Osamu; Watanabe, Yoshiyuki; Azuma, Takeo; Ohnishi, Mitsuo; Ukai, Isao; Tahara, Kenichi; Ogura, Hiroshi; Kuwagata, Yasuyuki; Hamasaki, Toshimitsu; Shimazu, Takeshi

2013-01-01

Electrocardiogram-gated imaging combined with multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) has reduced cardiac motion artifacts, but it was not practical in the emergency setting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of a high-pitch, 128-slice dual-source CT (DSCT) scanner to reduce motion artifacts in patients admitted to the emergency room. This study comprised 100 patients suspected of having thoracic aorta lesions. We examined 47 patients with the 128-slice DSCT scanner (DSCT group), and 53 patients were examined with a 64-slice MDCT scanner (MDCT group). Six anatomic areas in the thoracic aorta were evaluated. Computed tomography images in the DSCT group were distinct, and significant differences were observed in images of all areas between the 2 groups except for the descending aorta. The high-pitch DSCT scanner can reduce motion artifacts of the thoracic aorta and enable radiological diagnosis even in patients with tachycardia and without breath hold.

Medical Simulation for Trauma Management.

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-10-01

the inferior mesenteric vein and identify the aorta. Indications for surgical exploration of major trauma (McAninch and Carroll (1989...aorta. (5) Vascular control is obtained by clamping the renal vein and artery at their origins from the vena cava and the aorta, (mistake possible...as if they are being miniaturized and injected into the heart’s left atrium . Their mission, in Page 21 order to save the patient, is to maneuver

[Endovascular and surgical treatment of a patient with traumatic rupture of the aorta and hepatic artery].

PubMed

Chernaya, N R; Muslimov, R Sh; Selina, I E; Kokov, L S; Vladimirova, E S; Navruzbekov, M S; Gulyaev, V A

2016-01-01

Traumatic rupture of the aorta is the second most common cause of death in closed chest injury. The latest findings of autopsy showed that 80% of lethal outcomes in aortic injury occur in the prehospital period. Taking into consideration the incidence and high rate of death prior to the diagnosis stage, aortic rupture in closed thoracic injury is an important problem. Due to the characteristic mechanism of the development (during sharp deceleration of the body) this type of traumatic lesion of the aorta became known as "deceleration syndrome". The most vulnerable to tension aortic portion is its neck where the mobile part of the thoracic aorta is connected to the fixed arch in the place of the arterial ligament attachment. Open surgical intervention in patients with severe closed chest injury (often concomitant injury) is associated with high mortality and complications. Currently endovascular prosthetic repair of the aorta is a method of choice at the primary stage of treatment of patients with aortic injury. In this article we present a rare case report of concomitant lesion of large vessels (the descending aortic portion and proper hepatic artery) in a patient with severe concomitant injury, as well as peculiarities of diagnosis and combined treatment (endovascular prosthetic repair of the aorta and hepatic artery with an aotovein).

Vasodilator activity of the essential oil from aerial parts of Pectis brevipedunculata and its main constituent citral in rat aorta.

PubMed

Pereira, Sharlene Lopes; Marques, André Mesquita; Sudo, Roberto Takashi; Kaplan, Maria Auxiliadora Coelho; Zapata-Sudo, Gisele

2013-03-07

The essential oil of Pectis brevipedunculata (EOPB), a Brazilian ornamental aromatic grass, is characterized by its high content of citral (81.9%: neral 32.7% and geranial 49.2%), limonene (4.7%) and α-pinene (3.4%). Vasodilation induced by EOPB and isolated citral was investigated in pre-contracted vascular smooth muscle, using thoracic aorta from Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats which was prepared for isometric tension recording. EOPB promoted intense relaxation of endothelium-intact and denuded aortic rings with the concentration to induce 50% of the maximal relaxation (IC50) of 0.044% ± 0.006% and 0.093% ± 0.015% (p < 0.05), respectively. The IC50 values for citral in endothelium-intact and denuded rings were 0.024% ± 0.004% and 0.021% ± 0.004%, respectively (p > 0.05). In endothelium-intact aorta, EOPB-induced vasorelaxation was significantly reduced by L-NAME, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor. The vasodilator activity of citral was increased in the KCl-contracted aorta and citral attenuated the contracture elicited by Ca2+ in depolarized aorta. EOPB and citral elicited vasorelaxation on thoracic aorta by affecting the NO/cyclic GMP pathway and the calcium influx through voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ channels, respectively.

Early and late management of type B aortic dissection.

PubMed

Nienaber, Christoph A; Divchev, Dimitar; Palisch, Holger; Clough, Rachel E; Richartz, Barbara

2014-10-01

The management of type B aortic dissection is undergoing profound changes with timely TEVAR accepted as first-line strategy in the setting of complicated dissection; with recent technological advances and in experienced hands this intervention is considered safe and life-saving. With the ability to remodel the dissected aorta as a result of scaffolding even pre-emptive endovascular treatment is being considered and supported by long-term stability and often prevention of aneurysmal expansion. This insight and a growing number of silent risk conditions (resistant hypertension, partial false lumen thrombosis) may lower the threshold for TEVAR in asymptomatic patients in the subacute phase. In the chronic phase of a type B dissection patients are usually free of symptoms, however, with the expanding false lumen at risk of rupture. Advanced TEVAR options (including branches and fenestrations) are likely to be used more often than open surgical replacement of such aneurysmatic segment of the dissected aorta in that chronic phase. All dissection patients should be offered lifelong surveillance. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Patient-specific finite element analysis of ascending aorta aneurysms

PubMed Central

Martin, Caitlin; Elefteriades, John

2015-01-01

Catastrophic ascending aorta aneurysm (AsAA) dissection and rupture can be prevented by elective surgical repair, but identifying individuals at risk remains a challenge. Typically the decision to operate is based primarily on the overall aneurysm size, which may not be a reliable indicator of risk. In this study, AsAA inflation and rupture was simulated in 27 patient-specific finite element models constructed from clinical CT imaging data and tissue mechanical testing data from matching patients. These patients included n = 8 with concomitant bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), n = 10 with bovine aortic arch (BAA), and n = 10 with neither BAV nor BAA. AsAA rupture risk was found to increase with elevated systolic wall stress and tissue stiffness. The aortic size index was sufficient for identifying the patients with the lowest risk of rupture, but unsuitable for delineating between patients at moderate and high risk. There was no correlation between BAV or BAA and AsAA rupture risk; however, the AsAA morphology was different among these patients. These results support the use of mechanical parameters such as vessel wall stress and tissue stiffness for AsAA presurgical evaluation. PMID:25770248

Comparative Study of Continuous and Pulsatile Left Ventricular Assist Devices on Hemodynamics of a Pediatric End-to-Side Anastomotic Graft

PubMed Central

Yang, Ning; Deutsch, Steven; Paterson, Eric G.; Manning, Keefe B.

2013-01-01

Although there are many studies that focus on understanding the consequence of pumping mode (continuous vs. pulsatile) associated with ventricular assist devices (VADs) on pediatric vascular pulsatility, the impact on local hemodynamics has been largely ignored. Hence, we compare not only the hemodynamic parameters indicative of pulsatility but also the local flow fields in the aorta and the great vessels originating from the aortic arch. A physiologic graft anastomotic model is constructed based on a pediatric, patient specific, aorta with a graft attached on the ascending aorta. The flow is simulated using a previously validated second-order accurate Navier–Stokes flow solver based upon a finite volume approach. The major findings are: (1) pulsatile support provides a greater degree of vascular pulsatility when compared to continuous support, which, however, is still 20% less than pulsatility in the healthy aorta; (2) pulsatile support increases the flow in the great vessels, while continuous support decreases it; (3) complete VAD support results in turbulence in the aorta, with maximum principal Reynolds stresses for pulsatile support and continuous support of 7081 and 249 dyn/cm2, respectively; (4) complete pulsatile support results in a significant increase in predicted hemolysis in the aorta; and (5) pulsatile support causes both higher time-averaged wall shear stresses (WSS) and oscillatory shear indices (OSI) in the aorta than does continuous support. These findings will help to identify the risk of graft failure for pediatric patients with pulsatile and continuous VADs. PMID:24348881

Gia/Mthl5 is an aorta specific GPCR required for Drosophila heart tube morphology and normal pericardial cell positioning.

PubMed

Patel, Meghna V; Zhu, Jun-Yi; Jiang, Zhiping; Richman, Adam; VanBerkum, Mark F A; Han, Zhe

2016-06-01

G-protein signaling is known to be required for cell-cell contacts during the development of the Drosophila dorsal vessel. However, the identity of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that regulates this signaling pathway activity is unknown. Here we describe the identification of a novel cardiac specific GPCR, called Gia, for "GPCR in aorta". Gia is the only heart-specific GPCR identified in Drosophila to date and it is specifically expressed in cardioblasts that fuse at the dorsal midline to become the aorta. Gia is the only Drosophila gene so far identified for which expression is entirely restricted to cells of the aorta. Deletion of Gia led to a broken-hearted phenotype, characterized by pericardial cells dissociated from cardioblasts and abnormal distribution of cell junction proteins. Both phenotypes were similar to those observed in mutants of the heterotrimeric cardiac G proteins. Lack of Gia also led to defects in the alignment and fusion of cardioblasts in the aorta. Gia forms a protein complex with G-αo47A, the alpha subunit of the heterotrimeric cardiac G proteins and interacts genetically with G-αo47A during cardiac morphogenesis. Our study identified Gia as an essential aorta-specific GPCR that functions upstream of cardiac heterotrimeric G proteins and is required for morphological integrity of the aorta during heart tube formation. These studies lead to a redefinition of the bro phenotype, to encompass morphological integrity of the heart tube as well as cardioblast-pericardial cell spatial interactions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparing five simple vascular storage protocols.

PubMed

van Doormaal, Tristan P C; Sluijs, Jurren H; Vink, Aryan; Tulleken, Cornelis A F; van der Zwan, Albert

2014-11-01

We aim to find a storage protocol for vessels that preserves their dimensional, histologic, and mechanical characteristics to facilitate reproducible anastomosis experiments and microsurgical training with constant quality. We compared stored rabbit aortas, harvested in a slaughterhouse, using five different protocols with fresh controls. Aortas were preserved for 125 d in (1) NaCl 0.9% at -18°C, (2) Roswell Park Memorial Institute 1640 90% with 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (RPMI/DMSO) at -18°C, (3) RPMI/DMSO at -70°C, (4) glycerol 85% at 4°C, and (5) glycerol in stepwise increased concentrations until 85% at 4°C. After preservation, we measured vessel diameter, wall thickness, and Young's Modulus indicating stiffness. Neurosurgeons compared stored vessels with fresh vessels, blinded for preservation subgroup. We performed histologic assessment blinded for preservation subgroup. Fresh rabbit aortas showed a mean diameter of 2.65 ± 0.14 mm, a mean wall thickness of 126 ± 22 μm, and a Young's Modulus of 11.4 ± 2.4 N/mm(2). NaCl 0.9%-preserved aortas showed a significantly increased vessel diameter and decreased stiffness. RPMI/DMSO-preserved aortas showed no significant differences from fresh aortas in dimensions and mechanical characteristics. Glycerol-preserved tissue showed a significant increase in wall thickness, a related significant decrease in diameter, and increase in stiffness. Neurosurgeons regarded RPMI/DMSO tissue as most comparable with fresh tissue. Histologic assessment revealed no differences between the different protocols and fresh control group. Storage of rabbit aortas in RPMI/DMSO most adequately preserves their dimensional and mechanical properties. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Correlation of laser-Doppler-velocity measurements and endothelial cell shape in a stenosed dog aorta.

PubMed

Liepsch, D W; Levesque, M; Nerem, R M; Moravec, S T

1988-01-01

Laser-Doppler-velocity measurements were carried out in an elastic 1:1 true-to-scale silicone rubber model of a dog aorta with stenosis. The model was constructed from a cast of a severely stenosed dog aorta (71% of its area). The stenosis in the dog aorta was prepared by wrapping a cotton band around the aorta. This band was tightened until the presence of a thrill or a bruit was felt distal to the band. Twelve weeks later the animal was sacrificed and a cast was prepared from the aorta. From this vascular cast, the cross-sectional area was calculated. Endothelial cell geometry and orientation was studied using computerized analysis to determine the cell area and shape index. An elastic silicone rubber model was prepared from the cast to measure the velocity profiles and to estimate the local wall shear stress. Velocity measurements were done at steady and pulsatile flow using a Newtonian aqueous-glycerol solution and a non-Newtonian blood-like fluid. From those velocity measurements the velocity gradients near the wall were determined and the shear stress calculated. The flow distal to the stenosis separates from the wall at physiological conditions. The endothelial cells are smaller and more elongated in the throat; distal to the stenosis they are larger and rounder. The shape index distribution along the stenosed aorta is correlated with the level of wall shear stress. It is shown that even low changes in the wall shear stress have an influence on the orientation of the endothelial cells.

Wave reflection effects in the central circulation of American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis): what the heart sees.

PubMed

Syme, Douglas A; Gamperl, A Kurt; Braun, Marvin H; Jones, David R

2006-10-01

A large central compliance is thought to dominate the hemodynamics of all vertebrates except birds and mammals. Yet large crocodilians may adumbrate the avian and mammalian condition and set the stage for significant wave transmission (reflection) effects, with potentially detrimental impacts on cardiac performance. To investigate whether crocodilians exhibit wave reflection effects, pressures and flows were recorded from the right aorta, carotid artery, and femoral artery of six adult, anesthetized American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) during control conditions and after experimentally induced vasodilation and constriction. Hallmarks of wave reflection phenomena were observed, including marked differences between the measured profiles for flow and pressure, peaking of the femoral pressure pulse, and a diastolic wave in the right aortic pressure profile. Pulse wave velocity and peripheral input impedance increased with progressive constriction, and thus changes in both the timing and magnitude of reflections accounted for the altered reflection effects. Resolution of pressure and flow waves into incident and reflected components showed substantial reflection effects within the right aorta, with reflection coefficients at the first harmonic approaching 0.3 when constricted. Material properties measured from isolated segments of blood vessels revealed a major reflection site at the periphery and, surprisingly, at the junction of the truncus and right aorta. Thus, while our results clearly show that significant wave reflection phenomena are not restricted to birds and mammals, they also suggest that rather than cope with potential negative impacts of reflections, the crocodilian heart simply avoids them because of a large impedance mismatch at the truncus.

Associations between a Genetic Risk Score for Clinical CAD and Early Stage Lesions in the Coronary Artery and the Aorta.

PubMed

Salfati, Elias L; Herrington, David M; Assimes, Themistocles L

2016-01-01

The correlation between the extent of fatty streaks, more advanced atherosclerotic lesions, and community rates of coronary artery disease (CAD) is substantially higher for the coronary artery compared to the aorta. We sought to determine whether a genetic basis contributes to these differences. We conducted a cluster analysis of 6 subclinical atherosclerosis phenotypes documented in 564 white participants of the Pathobiological Determinants of Atherosclerosis in Youth study including the extent of fatty streaks and raised lesions in the coronary artery (CF and CR), thoracic aorta (TF and TR), and abdominal aorta (AF and AR) followed by a genetic association analysis of the same phenotypes. Our cluster analysis grouped all raised lesions and fatty streaks in the coronary into one cluster (CF, CR, TR, and AR) and the fatty streaks in the aorta into a second cluster (TF and AF). We found a genetic risk score of high-risk alleles at 57 susceptibility loci for CAD to be variably associated with the phenotypes in the first cluster (OR: 1.30 p = 0.009 for being in top quartile of degree of involvement of CF, 1.34 p = 0.005 for CR, 1.25: p = 0.11 for TR, and 1.19 p = 0.08 for AR) but not at all with the phenotypes in the second cluster (OR: 1.01, p = 0.95 for TF and 0.98, p = 0.82 for AF). The genetic determinants of fatty streaks in the aorta do not appear to overlap substantially with the genetic determinants of fatty streaks in the coronary as well as raised lesions in both the coronary and the aorta. These findings may explain why a larger fraction of fatty streaks in the aorta are less likely to progress to raised lesions compared to the coronary artery.

Associations between a Genetic Risk Score for Clinical CAD and Early Stage Lesions in the Coronary Artery and the Aorta

PubMed Central

Herrington, David M.

2016-01-01

Objective The correlation between the extent of fatty streaks, more advanced atherosclerotic lesions, and community rates of coronary artery disease (CAD) is substantially higher for the coronary artery compared to the aorta. We sought to determine whether a genetic basis contributes to these differences. Approach and Results We conducted a cluster analysis of 6 subclinical atherosclerosis phenotypes documented in 564 white participants of the Pathobiological Determinants of Atherosclerosis in Youth study including the extent of fatty streaks and raised lesions in the coronary artery (CF and CR), thoracic aorta (TF and TR), and abdominal aorta (AF and AR) followed by a genetic association analysis of the same phenotypes. Our cluster analysis grouped all raised lesions and fatty streaks in the coronary into one cluster (CF, CR, TR, and AR) and the fatty streaks in the aorta into a second cluster (TF and AF). We found a genetic risk score of high-risk alleles at 57 susceptibility loci for CAD to be variably associated with the phenotypes in the first cluster (OR: 1.30 p = 0.009 for being in top quartile of degree of involvement of CF, 1.34 p = 0.005 for CR, 1.25: p = 0.11 for TR, and 1.19 p = 0.08 for AR) but not at all with the phenotypes in the second cluster (OR: 1.01, p = 0.95 for TF and 0.98, p = 0.82 for AF). Conclusions The genetic determinants of fatty streaks in the aorta do not appear to overlap substantially with the genetic determinants of fatty streaks in the coronary as well as raised lesions in both the coronary and the aorta. These findings may explain why a larger fraction of fatty streaks in the aorta are less likely to progress to raised lesions compared to the coronary artery. PMID:27861582

Biomechanical properties of the thoracic aorta in Marfan patients

PubMed Central

Sulejmani, Fatiesa; Pokutta-Paskaleva, Anastassia; Ziganshin, Bulat; Leshnower, Bradley; Iannucci, Glen; Elefteriades, John

2017-01-01

Background Marfan syndrome (MFS), a genetic disorder of the connective tissue, has been strongly linked to dilation of the thoracic aorta, among other cardiovascular complications. As a result, MFS patients frequently suffer from aortic dissection and rupture, contributing to the high rate of mortality and morbidity among MFS patients. Despite the significant effort devoted to the investigation of mechanical and structural properties of aneurysmal tissue, studies on Marfan aneurysmal biomechanics are scarce. Ex vivo mechanical characterization of MFS aneurysmal tissue can provide a better insight into tissue strength outside the physiologic loading range and serve as a basis for improved risk assessment and failure prediction. Methods The mechanical and microstructural properties of MFS aneurysmal thoracic aorta (MFS, n=15, 39.5±3.91 years), non-MFS aneurysmal thoracic aorta (TAA, n=8, 52.8±4.9 years), healthy human thoracic aorta (HH, n=8, 75.4±6.1 years), and porcine thoracic aorta (n=10) are investigated. Planar biaxial tensile testing and uniaxial failure testing were utilized to characterize the mechanical and failure properties of the tissue, respectively. Verhoeff-Van Gieson (VVG) and PicroSirius Red stains were utilized to visualize the elastin and collagen fiber architecture, respectively. Results MFS tissue was found to have age-dependent but diameter-independent mechanical, structural, and morphological properties, also showing extensive elastin fiber degradation. Non-MFS thoracic aneurysmal aorta was thicker and stiffer than age-matched MFS tissue. Moreover, non-MFS thoracic aneurysmal mechanics resembled closely the mechanics of older healthy human tissue. Younger MFS tissue (<40 years) exhibited similar mechanical and structural properties to aged porcine tissue. Conclusions Both age and aneurysmal presence were found to be factors associated with increased stiffness in aortic tissue, and aortic diameter was not a significant determinant of mechanical property deterioration. Additionally, the presence of MFS was found to induce stiffening of the thoracic aorta, although not to the extent of the non-MFS aneurysm. PMID:29270373

Effect of folic acid and vitamin B12 on the expression of PPARγ, caspase-3 and caspase-8 mRNA in the abdominal aortas of rats with hyperlipidemia

PubMed Central

LV, FENG-HUA; GAO, JIAN-ZHI; TENG, QING-LEI; ZHANG, JIN-YING

2013-01-01

Hyperlipidemia may lead to endothelial injury, due to its effects on homocysteine and vascular endothelial growth factor in the serum, and the mRNA expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), and caspase-3 and -8 in the vascular wall. In order to prevent and mitigate the high-fat state that results from endothelial injury, this study examined the effect of folic acid (FA) and vitamin B12 (VB12) on the expression of PPARγ and caspase-3 and -8 mRNA in the abdominal aortas of rats with hyperlipidemia. Sixty 4-week-old healthy male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (each n=12): the normal control (NC), high-fat diet (HL), FA, VB12 and FA+VB12 groups. Following one week of adaptive feeding, the FA, VB12 and FA+VB12 groups were subject to the intraperitoneal injection of FA (0.5 mg/day), VB12 (0.05 mg/day) and FA+VB12 (0.5 mg/day and 0.05 mg/day), respectively, while fed a high-fat diet. The rats in the NC group were injected intraperitoneally with 0.9% NaCl solution (0.5 ml/day) and fed a normal diet, whereas those in the HL group were fed a high-fat diet only. A reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay demonstrated that at the end of week 12, the FA treatment had effectively increased the PPARγ mRNA level, while reducing the caspase-3 and -8 mRNA levels, compared with the high-fat diet treatment (P<0.05). The effect of FA on the expression of PPARγ and caspase-3 and -8 was enhanced when used in combination with VB12 (P<0.05). These results revealed that the application of FA, alone or in combination with VB12, improves and mitigates the high-fat state that results from endothelial injury. PMID:23935743

The Effect of Aortic Compliance on Left Ventricular Power Requirement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pahlevan, Niema; Gharib, Morteza

2009-11-01

Aortic compliance depends on both geometry and mechanical properties of the aorta. Reduction in arterial compliance has been associated with aging, smoking, and multiple cardiovascular diseases. Increased stiffness of the aorta affects the wave dynamics in the aorta by increasing both pulse pressure amplitude and wave speed. We hypothesized that decreased aortic compliance leads to an increased left ventricular power requirement for a fixed cardiac output due to altered pulse pressure and pulse wave velocity. We used a computational approach using the finite element method for solid and fluid domains coupled to each other by using the direct coupling method. A nonlinear material model was used for the solid wall. The fluid flow model was considered to be Newtonian, incompressible, and laminar. The simulation was performed for a heart rate of 75 beats per minute for six different compliances while keeping the cardiac output and the peripheral resistance constant. The results show a trend towards increased left ventricular energy expenditure per cycle with decreased compliance. The relevance of these findings to clinical observations will be discussed.

The presence of both horseshoe and a supernumerary kidney associated with coarctation of aorta.

PubMed

Unal, M; Erem, C; Serçe, K; Tuncer, C; Bostan, M; Gökçe, M

1995-01-01

Congenital urinary malformations associated with congenital heart disease are very rare. We present a case of horseshoe and supernumerary kidney associated with coarctation of aorta diagnosed by a combination of techniques of teleradiography, aortography, intravenous pyelography; ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and Dimercapto Succinic Acid (DMSA) and Diethylene Triamine Pentacetate (DTPA) imaging. This case represents the first reported instance of horseshoe and supernumerary kidney associated with coarctation of aorta.

Case report of an unusual combination of purulent pericarditis and false aneurysm of the ascending aorta.

PubMed

Meier, David; Kirsch, Matthias; Qanadli, Salah Dine; Muller, Olivier; Fishman, Daniel; Trana, Catalina

2018-01-29

Purulent pericarditis is an uncommon entity, which is, in very rare cases, associated to infection of the aorta. We present the case of a 42-year-old male patient, who was admitted to hospital complaining of tiredness, diarrhea and leg edema. Clinical examination revealed a hypotensive and obviously shocked patient. He was ultimately diagnosed with a rare combination of purulent pericarditis followed by false aneurysm of the ascending aorta. He was successfully treated by surgical pericardial drainage, replacement of the ascending aorta and antibiotics. Mycotic aneurysms can rarely be associated with purulent pericarditis. Our literature review shows that there are two mechanisms explaining this association and that in most of the published cases infective endocarditis could not be demonstrated.

Acute Left Arm Ischemia Associated with Floating Thrombus in the Proximal Descending Aorta: Combined Endovascular and Surgical Therapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fanelli, F., E-mail: fabrizio.fanelli@uniroma1.it; Gazzetti, M.; Boatta, E.

Free floating thrombus in the proximal descending aorta is an uncommon and dangerous condition that can be associated with acute peripheral embolization. The few cases described were solved with surgical and/or medical therapy. We report the case of a patient with acute left arm ischemia secondary to the presence of floating thrombus in the proximal descending aorta extending into the left subclavian artery, solved with combined endovascular and surgical therapy. Treatment was successfully performed with thrombembolectomy combined with temporary deployment, into the descending aorta, of a Wallstent in a 'basket-fashion' to avoid distal embolization secondary to thrombus fragmentation. At 1more » year follow-up the patient remained symptom-free.« less

Axillofemoral Bypass Markedly Improved Acute Decompensated Heart Failure and Kidney Injury in a Patient with Severely Calcified Stenosis of Thoracoabdominal Aorta (Atypical Aortic Coarctation).

PubMed

Ishizuka, Masato; Yamada, Shintaro; Maemura, Sonoko; Yamamoto, Keisuke; Takizawa, Masataka; Uozumi, Hiroki; Minegishi, Sachito; Kobayashi, Jotaro; Ikenouchi, Hiroshi

2017-10-21

Atypical aortic coarctation (AAC) has been reported to occur anywhere along the aorta, except for the ascending aorta. The associated symptoms include hypotension in the lower half of the body, secondary hypertension in the upper half of the body, and heart failure. Here we present an 80-year-old Asian woman complaining of progressive exertional dyspnea. She was diagnosed with acute decompensated heart failure and kidney injury due to severely calcified stenosis of the thoracoabdominal aorta, the so called AAC. She received hemodiafiltration, and pulmonary congestion improved in part. Generally, surgical treatments are quite invasive in elderly patients. Endovascular stent graft placement is less invasive, however, fracture and rupture should be considered at severely calcified lesions like this case. Therefore, we selected extra-anatomical axillofemoral bypass. Her recovery after the surgery was remarkable. In a few days, she became free from hemodiafiltration, intravenous diuretics, and oxygen administration. We thought the contributive factors are the increase in kidney blood flow and the correction of afterload mismatch. The decrease in pulse pressure may reflect the reduction in systemic arterial compliance by axillofemoral bypass. The operative mortality of axillofemoral bypass was reported to be acceptable, although the patency of the axillofemoral bypass graft was not high enough. In conclusion, axillofemoral bypass is effective and feasible for elderly patients with acute decompensated heart failure and kidney injury due to AAC.

A novel patient-specific model to compute coronary fractional flow reserve.

PubMed

Kwon, Soon-Sung; Chung, Eui-Chul; Park, Jin-Seo; Kim, Gook-Tae; Kim, Jun-Woo; Kim, Keun-Hong; Shin, Eun-Seok; Shim, Eun Bo

2014-09-01

The fractional flow reserve (FFR) is a widely used clinical index to evaluate the functional severity of coronary stenosis. A computer simulation method based on patients' computed tomography (CT) data is a plausible non-invasive approach for computing the FFR. This method can provide a detailed solution for the stenosed coronary hemodynamics by coupling computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with the lumped parameter model (LPM) of the cardiovascular system. In this work, we have implemented a simple computational method to compute the FFR. As this method uses only coronary arteries for the CFD model and includes only the LPM of the coronary vascular system, it provides simpler boundary conditions for the coronary geometry and is computationally more efficient than existing approaches. To test the efficacy of this method, we simulated a three-dimensional straight vessel using CFD coupled with the LPM. The computed results were compared with those of the LPM. To validate this method in terms of clinically realistic geometry, a patient-specific model of stenosed coronary arteries was constructed from CT images, and the computed FFR was compared with clinically measured results. We evaluated the effect of a model aorta on the computed FFR and compared this with a model without the aorta. Computationally, the model without the aorta was more efficient than that with the aorta, reducing the CPU time required for computing a cardiac cycle to 43.4%. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Losartan Attenuates Degradation of Aorta and Lung Tissue Micromechanics in a Mouse Model of Severe Marfan Syndrome.

PubMed

Lee, Jia-Jye; Galatioto, Josephine; Rao, Satish; Ramirez, Francesco; Costa, Kevin D

2016-10-01

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal dominant disease of the connective tissue due to mutations in the fibrillin-1 gene (FBN1). This study aimed at characterizing microelastic properties of the ascending aortic wall and lung parenchyma tissues from wild type (WT) and age-matched Fbn1 hypomorphic mice (Fbn1(mgR/mgR) mice) to identify tissue-specific biomechanical effects of aging and disease in MFS. Atomic force microscopy was used to indent lung parenchyma and aortic wall tissues, using Hybrid Eshelby Decomposition analysis to extract layer-specific properties of the intima and media. The intima stiffened with age and was not different between WT and Fbn1(mgR/mgR) tissues, whereas the media layer of MFS aortas showed progressive structural and mechanical degradation with a modulus that was 50% softer than WT by 3.5 months of age. Similarly, MFS mice displayed progressive structural and mechanical deterioration of lung tissue, which was over 85% softer than WT by 3.5 months of age. Chronic treatment with the angiotensin type I receptor antagonist, losartan, attenuated the aorta and lung tissue degradation, resulting in structural and mechanical properties not significantly different from age-matched WT controls. By revealing micromechanical softening of elastin-rich aorta and lung tissues with disease progression in fibrillin-1 deficient mice, our findings support the use of losartan as a prophylactic treatment that may abrogate the life-threatening symptoms of MFS.