Abstract 1374: A Novel eNOS-Independent Protective Action of Statin against Angiotensin II-Induced Atrial Remodeling Via Attenuating Rac-1-Mediated Oxidative Stress
Activation of the renin-angiotensin system exacerbates atrial remodeling, leading to atrial fibrillation (AF) and thrombosis, especially in a condition with decreased nitric oxide bioavailability. Although antiarrhythmic and anticoagulation agents are used under these pathological conditions, these drugs are not able to ameliorate atrial remodeling. Recently, it has been reported that statins reduce the incidence of AF through attenuating atrial remodeling; however, the mechanisms have not been completely elucidated. This study was designed to determine the beneficial effect of pitavastatin (Pit) against angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced atrial remodeling and to elucidate its mechanism. eNOS knockout mice were sham-operated or infused with Ang II by an osmotic mini-pump for 2 weeks, and Ang II-infused mice were divided into 3 treatment groups: Pit, tempol, a free radical scavenger, or a vehicle. Echocardiography and electrocardiography showed that Ang II infusion increased left atrial volume and caused a high incidence of AF, whereas Pit and tempol treatment prevented Ang II-induced left atrial enlargement and AF. Histological analysis showed that acceleration of Ang II-induced interstitial fibrosis, perivascular fibrosis and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in the atrium were all attenuated by Pit and tempol treatment. Immunohistochemistry showed that Ang II down-regulated thrombomodulin and up-regulated tissue factor and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 in the left atrium and that Pit and tempol treatment corrected the Ang II-induced thrombogenic condition. Moreover, Pit and tempol reduced Ang II-induced atrial superoxide production, detected by dihydroethidium staining, and atrial TGF- β 1 expression and Smad 2/3 phosphorylation. Activity of Rac-1-GTPase involved in the activation of NADPH oxidase in the atrium was attenuated by Pit but not by tempol. Pit exerts eNOS-independent protective actions against Ang II-induced atrial structural and electrical remodeling with enhanced thrombogenicity through suppressing Rac-1-mediated oxidative stress, leading to suppression of the TGF- β 1/Smad pathway.