scholarly journals Nuclear angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptors are functionally linked to nitric oxide production

2009 ◽  
Vol 296 (6) ◽  
pp. F1484-F1493 ◽  
Author(s):  
TanYa M. Gwathmey ◽  
Hossam A. Shaltout ◽  
Karl D. Pendergrass ◽  
Nancy T. Pirro ◽  
Jorge P. Figueroa ◽  
...  

Expression of nuclear angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors in rat kidney provides further support for the concept of an intracellular renin-angiotensin system. Thus we examined the cellular distribution of renal ANG II receptors in sheep to determine the existence and functional roles of intracellular ANG receptors in higher order species. Receptor binding was performed using the nonselective ANG II antagonist 125I-[Sar1,Thr8]-ANG II (125I-sarthran) with the AT1 antagonist losartan (LOS) or the AT2 antagonist PD123319 (PD) in isolated nuclei (NUC) and plasma membrane (PM) fractions obtained by differential centrifugation or density gradient separation. In both fetal and adult sheep kidney, PD competed for the majority of cortical NUC (≥70%) and PM (≥80%) sites while LOS competition predominated in medullary NUC (≥75%) and PM (≥70%). Immunodetection with an AT2 antibody revealed a single ∼42-kDa band in both NUC and PM extracts, suggesting a mature molecular form of the NUC receptor. Autoradiography for receptor subtypes localized AT2 in the tubulointerstitium, AT1 in the medulla and vasa recta, and both AT1 and AT2 in glomeruli. Loading of NUC with the fluorescent nitric oxide (NO) detector DAF showed increased NO production with ANG II (1 nM), which was abolished by PD and N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, but not LOS. Our studies demonstrate ANG II receptor subtypes are differentially expressed in ovine kidney, while nuclear AT2 receptors are functionally linked to NO production. These findings provide further evidence of a functional intracellular renin-angiotensin system within the kidney, which may represent a therapeutic target for the regulation of blood pressure.

2006 ◽  
Vol 290 (3) ◽  
pp. F710-F719 ◽  
Author(s):  
Max C. Liebau ◽  
D. Lang ◽  
J. Böhm ◽  
N. Endlich ◽  
Martin J. Bek ◽  
...  

Experimental and clinical studies impressively demonstrate that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) significantly reduce proteinuria and retard progression of glomerular disease. The underlying intraglomerular mechanisms are not yet fully elucidated. As podocyte injury constitutes a critical step in the pathogenesis of glomerular proteinuria, beneficial effects of ACEI and ARB may partially result from interference with a local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in podocytes. The knowledge of expression and function of a local RAS in podocytes is limited. In this study, we demonstrate functional expression of key components of the RAS in differentiated human podocytes: podocytes express mRNA for angiotensinogen, renin, ACE type 1, and the AT1 and AT2 angiotensin receptor subtypes. In Western blot experiments and immunostainings, expression of the AT1 and AT2 receptor was demonstrated both in differentiated human podocytes and in human kidney cortex. ANG II induced a concentration-dependent increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration via AT1 receptors in differentiated human podocytes, whereas it did not increase cAMP. Furthermore, ANG II secretion was detected, which was blocked by neither the ACEI captopril nor the renin inhibitor remikiren nor the chymase inhibitor chymostatin. ANG II secretion of podocytes was not increased by mechanical stress. Finally, ANG II was found to increase staurosporine-induced apoptosis in podocytes. We speculate that ACEI and ARB exert their beneficial effects, in part, by interfering with a local RAS in podocytes. Further experiments are required to identify the underlying molecular mechanism(s) of podocyte protection.


2000 ◽  
Vol 279 (6) ◽  
pp. F1092-F1100 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jörg Schwöbel ◽  
Tina Fischer ◽  
Bettina Lanz ◽  
Markus Mohaupt

Angiotensin II (ANG II) and nitric oxide (NO) have contrasting vascular effects, yet both sustain inflammatory responses. We investigated the impact of ANG II on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/interferon-γ (IFN)-induced NO production in cultured rat mesangial cells (MCs). LPS/IFN-induced nitrite production, the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase (NOS-2) mRNA, and protein expression were dose dependently inhibited by ANG II on coincubation, which was abolished on ANG II type 2 (AT2) receptor blockade by PD-123319. Homology-based RT-PCR verified the presence of AT1A, AT1B, and AT2 receptors. To shift the AT receptor expression toward the type 1 receptor, two sets of experiments were performed: LPS/IFN preincubation for 24 h was followed by 8-h coincubation with ANG II; or during 24-h coincubation of LPS/IFN and ANG II, dexamethasone was added for the last 6-h period. Both led to an amplified overall expression of NOS-2 protein and NO production that was inhibitable by actinomycin D in the first setup. Induced NO production was enhanced via the AT1 receptor; however, it was diminished via the AT2 receptor. In conclusion, induced NO production is negatively controlled by the AT2, whereas AT1 receptor stimulation enhanced NO synthesis in MCs. The overall NO availability depended on the onset of the inflammatory stimuli with respect to ANG II exposure and the available AT receptors.


2017 ◽  
Vol 312 (2) ◽  
pp. H223-H231 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ghezal Froogh ◽  
John T. Pinto ◽  
Yicong Le ◽  
Sharath Kandhi ◽  
Yeabsra Aleligne ◽  
...  

Age-dependent alteration of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and generation of angiotensin II (Ang II) are well documented. By contrast, RAS-independent generation of Ang II in aging and its responses to exercise have not been explored. To this end, we examined the effects of chymase, a secretory serine protease, on the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-independent conversion of Ang I to Ang II. We hypothesized that age-dependent alteration of cardiac Ang II formation is chymase dependent in nature and is prevented by exercise training. Experiments were conducted on hearts isolated from young (3 mo), aged sedentary (24 mo), and aged rats chronically exercised on a treadmill. In the presence of low Ang I levels and downregulation of ACE expression/activity, cardiac Ang II levels were significantly higher in aged than young rats, suggesting an ACE-independent response. Aged hearts also displayed significantly increased chymase expression and activity, as well as upregulation of tryptase, a biological marker of mast cells, confirming a mast cell-sourced increase in chymase. Coincidently, cardiac superoxide produced from NADPH oxidase (Nox) was significantly enhanced in aged rats and was normalized by exercise. Conversely, a significant reduction in cardiac expression of ACE2 followed by lower Ang 1-7 levels and downregulation of the Mas receptor (binding protein of Ang 1-7) in aged rats were completely reversed by exercise. In conclusion, local formation of Ang II is increased in aged hearts, and chymase is primarily responsible for this increase. Chronic exercise is able to normalize the age-dependent alterations via compromising chymase/Ang II/angiotensin type 1 receptor/Nox actions while promoting ACE2/Ang 1-7/MasR signaling. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Aging increases angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-independent production of cardiac angiotensin II (Ang II), a response that is driven by chymase in an exercise-reversible manner. These findings highlight chymase, in addition to ACE, as an important therapeutic target in the treatment and prevention of Ang II-induced deterioration of cardiac function in the elderly. Listen to this article's corresponding podcast @ http://ajpheart.podbean.com/e/renin-angiotensin-system-signaling-in-aged-and-age-exercised-rats/ .


2016 ◽  
Vol 310 (2) ◽  
pp. H137-H152 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mark C. Chappell

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) constitutes a key hormonal system in the physiological regulation of blood pressure through peripheral and central mechanisms. Indeed, dysregulation of the RAS is considered a major factor in the development of cardiovascular pathologies, and pharmacological blockade of this system by the inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) or antagonism of the angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) offers an effective therapeutic regimen. The RAS is now defined as a system composed of different angiotensin peptides with diverse biological actions mediated by distinct receptor subtypes. The classic RAS comprises the ACE-ANG II-AT1R axis that promotes vasoconstriction; water intake; sodium retention; and increased oxidative stress, fibrosis, cellular growth, and inflammation. In contrast, the nonclassical RAS composed primarily of the ANG II/ANG III-AT2R and the ACE2-ANG-(1–7)-AT7R pathways generally opposes the actions of a stimulated ANG II-AT1R axis. In lieu of the complex and multifunctional aspects of this system, as well as increased concerns on the reproducibility among laboratories, a critical assessment is provided on the current biochemical approaches to characterize and define the various components that ultimately reflect the status of the RAS.


Hypertension ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 66 (suppl_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Bryan A Wilson ◽  
Nancy T Pirro ◽  
TanYa M Gwathmey ◽  
James C Rose ◽  
Mark C Chappell

There is compelling evidence for actions of an intracellular renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in various cell organelles including the endoplasmic reticulum, nucleus and the mitochondria (Mito). Indeed, angiotensin (Ang) AT1 and AT2 receptor subtypes were functionally linked to Mito respiration and nitric oxide production, respectively in a previous study. Since elucidation of mitochondrial pathways for expression of RAS protein components as well as Ang II or Ang-(1-7) is equivocal at this time, we undertook a biochemical analysis of the Mito RAS from adult male sheep kidney. Cortical Mito were isolated by differential centrifugation and a discontinuous Percoll gradient. Purified Mito were co-enriched in the voltage-dependent anion channel, an outer Mito membrane marker as well as ATP synthase, an inner membrane marker. Angiotensinogen (Aogen; 55 kDa) was detected in Mito extracts by an Aogen antibody to an internal sequence of the protein, but not with an antibody directed against the Ang I N-terminus. Two different renin antibodies identified a major 35 kDa protein band in the isolated Mito. Using the Ang I-directed Aogen antibody, active renin was confirmed by hydrolysis of Aogen that was abolished by aliskiren; however, trypsin exposure did not increase renin activity in the Mito. A pro-renin receptor (PRR) antibody failed to identify proteins in three Mito preparations, but revealed a prominent band in renal cortical membranes that corresponds to the size of PRR. Angiotensin peptides were quantified by three direct RIAs; the Mito content of Ang II and Ang-(1-7) were higher as compared to Ang I [23 ± 8 and 58 ± 17 vs. 2 ± 1 fmol/mg protein; p<0.01, n=3]. Additionally, both neprilysin and thimet oligopeptidase activities that processed Ang I to Ang-(1-7) were evident. Finally, cortical Mito internalized radiolabeled Aogen at a rate of 33 ± 9 fmol/min/mg protein (n=3) at 37°C. The subsequent analysis of the labeled Mito by SDS-gel fractionation revealed a predominant radioactive band of 55 kDa for Aogen. Collectively, our data suggest that the internalization of Aogen and subsequent processing by active renin may yield des-[Ang I]-Aogen and the active peptides Ang II and Ang-(1-7) that may potentially contribute to mitochondrial function within the kidney.


2000 ◽  
Vol 1 (3) ◽  
pp. 210-226 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shann Dixon Kim

Angiotensin II (ANG II), the effector hormone of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), has been implicated in the pathophysiology and progression of heart failure. Therefore, the measurement of ANGII has become important to characterize the role of this neurohormone in heart failure. However, because ANG II has been difficult to measure, other components of the RAS have been measured to characterize ANG II production. The RAS components (e.g., renin, angiotensin I–converting enzyme [ACE], angiotensin II) have been measured with a variety of techniques. In this review, RAS physiology and the techniques used to measure the RAS components are discussed. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of the RAS measurement methods are described.


Stroke ◽  
2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
T. Michael De Silva ◽  
Mary L. Modrick ◽  
Justin L. Grobe ◽  
Frank M. Faraci

Background and Purpose: Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cerebrovascular disease and loss of brain health. While the brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) contributes to hypertension, its potential impact on the local vasculature is unclear. We tested the hypothesis that activation of the brain RAS would alter the local vasculature using a modified deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) model. Methods: C57BL/6 mice treated with DOCA (50 mg SQ; or shams) were given tap H 2 O and H 2 O with 0.9% NaCl for 1 to 3 weeks. Results: In isolated cerebral arteries and parenchymal arterioles from DOCA-treated male mice, endothelium- and nitric oxide-dependent dilation was progressively impaired, while mesenteric arteries were unaffected. In contrast, cerebral endothelial function was not significantly affected in female mice treated with DOCA. In males, mRNA expression of renal Ren1 was markedly reduced while RAS components (eg, Agt and Ace ) were increased in both brain and cerebral arteries with central RAS activation. In NZ44 reporter mice expressing GFP (green fluorescent protein) driven by the angiotensin II type 1A receptor ( Agtr1a ) promoter, DOCA increased GFP expression ≈3-fold in cerebral arteries. Impaired endothelial responses were restored to normal by losartan, an AT1R (angiotensin II type 1 receptor) antagonist. Last, DOCA treatment produced inward remodeling of parenchymal arterioles. Conclusions: These findings suggest activation of the central and cerebrovascular RAS impairs endothelial (nitric oxide dependent) signaling in brain through expression and activation of AT1R and sex-dependent effects. The central RAS may be a key contributor to vascular dysfunction in brain in a preclinical (low renin) model of hypertension. Because the brain RAS is also activated during aging and other diseases, a common mechanism may promote loss of endothelial and brain health despite diverse cause.


2019 ◽  
Vol 133 (20) ◽  
pp. 2061-2067 ◽  
Author(s):  
Niwanthi W. Rajapakse ◽  
Beverly Giam ◽  
Sanjaya Kuruppu ◽  
Geoffrey A. Head ◽  
David M. Kaye

Abstract The precise mechanisms underlying resistant hypertension remain elusive. Reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability is frequently documented in chronic kidney disease, obesity, diabetes and advanced age, all of which are risk factors for resistant hypertension. Sympathetic overactivity and chronic activation of the renin–angiotensin system are salient features of resistant hypertension. Interestingly, recent data indicate that renal sympathetic overactivity can reduce the expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase in the paraventricular nucleus. Reduced NO levels in the paraventricular nucleus can increase sympathetic outflow and this can create a vicious cycle contributing to resistant hypertension. Angiotensin II can reduce l-arginine transport and hence NO production. Reduced NO levels may reduce the formation of angiotensin 1-7 dampening the cardio-protective effects of the renin–angiotensin system contributing to resistant hypertension. In addition, interleukin-6 (IL-6) is demonstrated to be independently associated with resistant hypertension, and IL-6 can reduce NO synthesis. Despite this, NO levels have not been quantified in resistant hypertension. Findings from a small proof of concept study indicate that NO donors can reduce blood pressure in patients with resistant hypertension but more studies are required to validate these preliminary findings. In the present paper, we put forward the hypothesis that reduced NO bioavailability contributes substantially to the development of resistant hypertension.


Nutrients ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (11) ◽  
pp. 1741 ◽  
Author(s):  
In-Ae Jang ◽  
Eun Kim ◽  
Ji Lim ◽  
Min Kim ◽  
Tae Ban ◽  
...  

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), especially the angiotensin II (Ang II)/angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) axis, plays an important role in the aging process of the kidney, through increased tissue reactive oxygen species production and progressively increased oxidative stress. In contrast, the angiotensin 1-7 (Ang 1-7)/Mas receptor (MasR) axis, which counteracts the effects of Ang II, is protective for end-organ damage. To evaluate the ability of resveratrol (RSV) to modulate the RAS in aging kidneys, eighteen-month-old male C57BL/6 mice were divided into two groups that received either normal mouse chow or chow containing resveratrol, for six months. Renal expressions of RAS components, as well as pro- and antioxidant enzymes, were measured and mouse kidneys were isolated for histopathology. Resveratrol-treated mice demonstrated better renal function and reduced albuminuria, with improved renal histologic findings. Resveratrol suppressed the Ang II/AT1R axis and enhanced the AT2R/Ang 1-7/MasR axis. Additionally, the expression of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 4, 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine, 3-nitrotyrosine, collagen IV, and fibronectin was decreased, while the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and superoxide dismutase 2 was increased by resveratrol treatment. These findings demonstrate that resveratrol exerts protective effects on aging kidneys by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis, through Ang II suppression and MasR activation.


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