Vascular disease is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the western world, and account for the 1 of every 3 death’s in the US, but a cure for vascular disease is yet to be realized. Hematopoietic stem progenitor cells (HSPCs) are mobilized from bone marrow and have the innate propensity to accelerate vascular repair by reendothelialization and revascularization of ischemic areas. The vasoreparative ability of HSPCs is largely due to their capacity to home to the areas of hypoxia and their sensitivity to hypoxia plays a critical role in the vasoreparative functions of these cells. The discovery of vasoreparative potential of HSPCs resulted in a breakthrough approach of cell-based therapies for the treatment of ischemic vascular diseases. However, success of this approach is essentially dependent on the number of cells that could be collected from an individual. Therefore, novel mechanism-based strategies are needed to enhance the outcomes of autologous cell-based therapies in poor mobilizers and older adults. Recent evidence of a potential role of the vasoprotective axis of the renin angiotensin system (RAS) in HSPCs functions offers a breakthrough. Angiotensin-(1-7), the primary mediator of the protective functions which acts on Mas receptor (MasR), is generated by angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2). In this study, we tested the effects of hypoxia on stimulation of vasoreparative potential of HSPCs and in upregulation of ACE2 and MasR. Importantly, we delineated the molecular mechanism of hypoxic exposure in regulation of ACE2 and MasR in a HIF1α- dependent manner and hypoxic exposure induced shedding of the membrane bound ACE2 in HSPCs. We used luciferase, a reporter assay, cell-based assays, gene/protein expression studies and pharmacological strategies in human and mouse HSPCs to test our hypotheses. To verify the biological significance of hypoxia, we performed in vivo studies in mice and humans, which recapitulated the in vitro observations on vascular protective axis of RAS in HSPCs. Collectively, these studies provided mechanistic insights into hypoxic regulation of vascular protective axis of RAS in HSPCs and also provided compelling evidence for the clinical use of hypoxia as a promising approach for enhancing the vasoreparative outcomes of cell-based therapies. / American Heart Association grant, 13SDG16960025 / National Institutes of Health, National institute of Aging (NIA), 1R01AG056881

Obesity is strongly associated with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. An activated renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has long been suggested as a critical contributor to elevated blood pressure with obesity. Angiotensin II (AngII), the main effector of an activated RAS, can be catabolized by angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) to form angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)), which, acting through the mas receptor (MasR), has been shown to oppose the effects of an activated RAS. Therefore, further understanding of the mechanisms of this counter-regulatory arm, called the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/MasR axis, may lead to new therapies for obesity-induced hypertension. Previously, we demonstrated that differences in the regulation of ACE2 in a tissue-specific manner contribute to sexual dimorphism of diet-induced obesity-hypertension in mice. Whereas male mice fed a high fat (HF) diet developed hypertension, HF-fed female mice were protected from obesity-hypertension, and this was associated with increased activity of ACE2 in adipose tissue of females. Both upregulation of adipose ACE2 and protection against obesity-hypertension were lost when females were ovariectomized (OVX). We hypothesized that estrogen-mediated increases in adipose ACE2 reduce the AngII/Ang-(1-7) peptide balance and protect females from obesity-hypertension. To test this hypothesis, we first determined if estrogen restores protection of Ovx female mice from obesity-hypertension, and therapeutically protects male mice from obesity-hypertension. We demonstrated that estrogen administration to Ovx HF-fed females activates adipose ACE2, reduces plasma Ang II concentrations, and decreases blood pressure in wildtype, but not of ACE2-deficient obese females. In contrast, estrogen administration to HF-fed male mice had no on the development of obesity-hypertension, regardless of genotype. These results demonstrate that estrogen protects female mice from obesity-hypertension through an ACE2-dependent mechanism. Next we defined the role of MasR deficiency on the development of obesity-hypertension in male and female mice. In HF-fed MasR-deficient female mice, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was significantly elevated compared to LF-fed controls, suggesting that protection from obesity-hypertension was abolished by MasR deficiency. In contrast, HF-fed male mice with MasR deficiency exhibited reduced blood pressure compared to wildtype controls which was associated with reduced cardiac function. Overall, these studies indicate that the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/MasR axis plays an important role in sexual dimorphism of obesity-hypertension, and in the regulation of cardiac function. Moreover, these studies suggest that the effects of this counter-regulatory arm of the RAS may be sex-specific.

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico / The Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) has been associated with various reproductive functions, including the ovulatory cascade. Unlike angiotensin II (AngII), the role of angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] has not been characterized in the ovary of mono-ovulatory species. The objective of this study was to determine the Ang-(1-7) concentration in follicular fluid and Ang-(1-7)-related enzymes and MAS receptor mRNA expression during the ovulatory process in cattle. Forty cows were synchronized and those with follicular diameter ≥ 12 mm received GnRH analog (i.m.) to induce a LH peak and were ovariectomized at different periods (0, 3, 6, 12 and 24 h). Follicular fluid was stored to measure Ang-(1-7). Theca and granulosa cells were collected to evaluate gene expression by RT-qPCR assay. In a second experiment, the effect of Ang-(1-7) and A-779 (MAS receptor inhibitor) on the epiregulin mRNA expression by granulosa cells was evaluated in vitro. In the third experiment, the hypothesis that Ang-(1-7) is essential for ovulation was tested using an in vivo model by injecting A-779 intrafollicularly. Twenty synchronized cows were intrafollicularly injected with A-779 or saline 0.9% (control group) when the follicles reached a diameter of at least 12 mm and were challenged with an IM application of GnRH analogs. The levels of Ang-(1-7) increased in the follicular fluid at 24 h post-treatment (p < 0.05). Messenger RNA expression of MAS, ECA2, NEP and PEP was detected in theca and granulosa cells at all periods after GnRH injection. In granulosa cells, ACE2, NEP and PEP mRNA expression was regulated in different moments after GnRH treatment (p < 0.05). The addition of Ang-(1-7) or A-779 was not able to change the pattern of Ereg mRNA expression in our granulosa cell culture system. The intrafollicular application of A-779 (10-5M) did not block ovulation when performed before the expected peak of LH (100% of cows ovulated in treated and control groups). Differential expression of ACE2, NEP and PEP in granulosa cells and increased concentrations Ang-(1-7) next ovulation may indicate a role of this peptide in ovulation in cattle. / O Sistema Renina-Angiotensina (RAS) tem sido relacionado com diversas funções reprodutivas, incluindo a cascata ovulatória. Ao contrário da Angiotensina II (AngII), a função da Angiotensina-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] ainda não está caracterizada no ovário de espécies mono-ovulares como a bovina. Este estudo teve por objetivo determinar se os diferentes tipos celulares de folículos pré ovulatórios expressam o receptor MAS para Ang-(1-7) e a enzima conversora de angiotensina 2 (ECA2). Além disso, foi investigado se esses genes são induzidos por LH durante o processo ovulatório. Quarenta vacas foram sincronizadas e aquelas que alcançaram diâmetro folicular ≥ 12 mm receberam uma aplicação IM de GnRH e foram ovariectomizadas via colpotomia em diferentes momentos (0, 3, 6, 12 e 24 h) após o GnRH. O líquido folicular foi recuperado para dosagem de Ang-(1-7). As células da teca e da granulosa foram isoladas e submetidas à extração de RNA e transcrição reversa. A expressão relativa dos genes foi realizada por PCR em tempo real. Em um segundo experimento, utilizando um modelo in vitro de cultivo de células de folículos ≥ 12mm, buscou-se avaliar o efeito da Ang-(1-7) ou do bloqueio de seu receptor (MAS) na expressão de RNAm para epirregulina (Ereg). No terceiro experimento, utilizando o modelo de injeção intrafolicular in vivo, foi testada a hipótese de que Ang-(1-7) é essencial para a ovulação em bovinos. Vinte vacas foram sincronizadas e quando os folículos atingiram um diâmetro mínimo de 12 mm, receberam os tratamentos com A-779 (inibidor do receptor MAS) ou solução salina 0,9% (grupo controle) e foram no momento da injeção intrafolicular desafiados com uma aplicação IM de análogo de GnRH. Foi detectada a presença de Ang-(1-7) no líquido folicular, sendo que seus níveis foram constantes até 12 h após o GnRH e aumentando (P <0,05), às 24 h após o tratamento. A expressão de RNAm para MAS, ECA2, NEP e PEP foi detectada em células da teca e granulosa em todos os períodos após a aplicação de GnRH. A expressão de RNAm para ECA2, NEP e PEP, foi regulada nas células da granulosa em diferentes momentos após tratamento com GnRH (P <0,05). Folículos pré-ovulatórios possuem Ang-(1-7) no líquido folicular, bem como expressam RNAm para MAS, ECA2, NEP e PEP nas células da teca e granulosa durante o processo ovulatório. A suplementação com Ang-(1-7), ou o bloqueio de seu receptor nas doses utilizadas não foi capaz de alterar o padrão de expressão de RNAm para Ereg em nosso sistema de cultivo de pedaços de folículos ≥ 12 mm. A aplicação intrafolicular de A-779 (10-5 M) não bloqueou a ovulação quando realizada antes do início do pico esperado de LH (100% das vacas ovularam nos grupos A-779 e controle). A expressão diferencial das enzimas formadoras da Ang-(1-7) (ECA2, NEP e PEP) nas células da granulosa e o aumento nas concentrações Ang-(1-7) no líquido folicular próximos a ovulação podem indicar um papel desse peptídeo na ovulação em bovinos.

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico / Ovulation is controlled by a complex and dynamic interaction of factors, including endocrine and vasoactive mechanisms, cellular messengers and activating enzymes. It is well established that locally produced factors exert pivotal roles during ovulation. Some peptides such as angiotensin II (Ang II) and Natriuretic Peptides (NPs) have been prominent in local regulation of reproductive functions of mammals, beyond its systemic activities. Unlike angiotensin II (AngII), the role of angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] has not been characterized in the ovary of mono-ovulatory species. In the first study, was evaluated the effect of Ang-(1-7) and its receptor (MAS) in the regulation of the ovulatory cascade. For this we used an in vitro model of supplementation with Ang- (1-7) or blocking its receptor on EREG mRNA expression in granulosa cells. Using an in vivo model, the intrafollicular injection of Ang-(1-7) antagonist (A-779 - MAS receptor inhibitor) was performed to evaluate the ovulation rate. Results showed that the Ang- (1-7) and A-779 inhibitor when in vitro culture, were not able to regulate to EREG mRNA expression. Likewise, the intrafollicular injection of A-779 did not block ovulation before the expected time of LH peak, suggesting that Ang-(1-7) has no role in the early ovulatory cascade in cattle. In the second experiment, the aim was to evaluate the pattern of mRNA expression in bovine granulosa cells for the Natriuretic Peptides Precursors (NPPs), receptors (NPRs) and key enzymes of this system after GnRH-induced ovulation in vivo. Using in vivo model main results have been shown the presence of several components of NPs system during ovulation in cattle, as well as increased mRNA expression for NPPC (natriuretic peptide precursor C) in granulosa cells after induction of ovulation with GnRH / LH. These results provide the first evidence that the C-type natriuretic peptide (NPC) is upregulated by LH and may be involved in ovulation and bovine luteinizing. Third study was conducted to answer like LH controls the mRNA expression for NPPC if this is up-regulated through EGF receptor (EGF-R). Moreover, we evaluated if the NPC regulates genes in ovulatory cascade and blockade EGF-R is capable of altering ovulation rate. For this we used an in vitro model of granulosa cell culture from large follicles (> 12 mm) and in vivo models to study ovulation, combined with intrafollicular injection and follicular dynamics and / or ovariectomy at strategic times. Our main results were: NPC does not regulate mRNA expression for amphiregulin (AREG) and EREG in vitro; NPPC mRNA coding is regulated by EGF-R but block EGF-R was not able to change the ovulation rate in bovines. These results suggest that the regulation and function of NPs during ovulation may differ between monovular and polyovular species. / A ovulação é controlada por uma complexa e dinâmica interação de fatores, incluindo mecanismos endócrinos e vasoativos, mensageiros celulares e enzimas ativadoras. Fatores produzidos localmente exercem papel essencial durante o período ovulatório. Alguns peptídeos como Angiotensina II (AngII) e os Peptídeos Natriuréticos (NPs) têm se destacado na regulação local das funções reprodutivas, além de suas atividades sistêmicas. Ao contrário da AngII, a função da Angiotensina-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] ainda não está caracterizada no ovário de espécies monovulatórias, como o bovino. No primeiro estudo foi avaliado o efeito da Ang-(1-7) e de seu receptor (MAS) na regulação da ovulação. Para isso foi realizada a suplementação com Ang-(1-7) ou bloqueio de seu receptor, em células da granulosa cultivadas in vitro, sobre a expressão de RNAm para epirregulina (EREG marcador inicial do processo de ovulação). Utilizando um modelo in vivo, foi realizada a injeção intrafolicular do inibidor do receptor MAS (A-779) para avaliar a taxa de ovulação. Os resultados demonstraram que a Ang-(1-7) e o inibidor A-779 quando em cultivo in vitro, não foram capazes de regular a expressão de RNAm para EREG. Da mesma forma que injeção intrafolicular de A-779 não inibiu o processo ovulatório, indicando que a Ang-(1-7) não possui papel relevante no início da cascata ovulatória em bovinos. No segundo estudo o objetivo foi caracterizar a expressão dos NPs, seus receptores e enzimas convertases durante a ovulação induzida a partir de GnRH/LH em bovinos. Utilizando modelo in vivo foram demonstrados como principais resultados a presença de vários componentes do sistema NPs durante a ovulação em bovinos, bem como um aumento na expressão de RNAm para NPPC (precursor do peptídeo natriurético tipo C) após indução da ovulação GnRH / LH em células da granulosa. Esses resultados fornecem a primeira evidência que o peptídeo natriurético tipo C (NPC) é regulado positivamente pelo LH e pode estar envolvido na ovulação e luteinização de bovinos. O terceiro estudo foi realizado para responder como ocorre a regulação do RNAm para NPPC pelo LH, se essa regulação é via receptor de EGF (EGF-R). Além disso, avaliamos se o NPC regula genes da cascata ovulatória e se o bloqueio EGF-R é capaz de alterar a taxa de ovulação. Para isso foram utilizados modelos in vitro de cultivo de células da granulosa de folículos grandes (> 12 mm) e modelos in vivo para estudo da ovulação aliados à injeção intrafolicular com ovariectomia em momentos estratégicos e/ou dinâmica folicular. Nossos principais resultados foram: NPC não regula a expressão de RNAm para anfirregulina (AREG) e EREG in vitro; RNAm para NPPC é regulado via EGF-R porém o bloqueio de EGF-R não foi capaz de alterar a taxa de ovulação em bovinos. Estes resultados sugerem que a regulação e função dos NPs durante a ovulação pode diferir entre espécies mono e multiovulatórias.

Submitted by Luciana Ferreira (lucgeral@gmail.com) on 2018-10-03T11:24:00Z No. of bitstreams: 2 Dissertação - Carolina Nobre Ribeiro Pontes - 2018.pdf: 2152959 bytes, checksum: 9a1997dd7deceede7ede68d4550b490c (MD5) license_rdf: 0 bytes, checksum: d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e (MD5) / Approved for entry into archive by Luciana Ferreira (lucgeral@gmail.com) on 2018-10-03T11:46:07Z (GMT) No. of bitstreams: 2 Dissertação - Carolina Nobre Ribeiro Pontes - 2018.pdf: 2152959 bytes, checksum: 9a1997dd7deceede7ede68d4550b490c (MD5) license_rdf: 0 bytes, checksum: d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e (MD5) / Made available in DSpace on 2018-10-03T11:46:08Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 Dissertação - Carolina Nobre Ribeiro Pontes - 2018.pdf: 2152959 bytes, checksum: 9a1997dd7deceede7ede68d4550b490c (MD5) license_rdf: 0 bytes, checksum: d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e (MD5) Previous issue date: 2018-03-02 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES / Previous studies suggested that the Angiotensin-(1-7) [(Ang-(1-7)] is able to modulate the cardiac sympathetic control and beta-adrenergic sensitivity. However, whether or not Ang-(1- 7) modulates the cholinergic activity in the heart remains unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of Ang-(1-7) upon cholinergic sensitivity of hearts from normotensive and hypertensive rats. Wistar and Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHR) were anesthetized with urethane and underwent catheterization of femoral artery and left ventricle to record the arterial and intraventricular pressure, respectively. Following, a dose-response curve of acetylcholine (ACh, 10, 20, 40 and 80 ng/Kg, i.v. into femoral vein) was performed in the absence or presence of Ang-(1-7) (7 x 10-12 mol/min), Mas receptor antagonist A-779 (7 x 10-11 mol/min) or Ang-(1-7)+A-779. Isolated hearts were perfused according to the Langendorff technique. Increasing concentrations of ACh (10-7 to 10-5 mol/L) were added to the hearts in absence or presence of Ang-(1-7), (2 x 10-11 mol/L), A-779, (2 x 10-10 mol/L), Ang-(1-7)+A-779, MrgD receptor antagonist, D-PRO (2 x 10-10 mol/L) or D-PRO+Ang-(1-7). ACh-induced vasorelaxation was assessed in absence or presence of Ang-(1-7) (2 x 10-11 mol/L or 2 x 10-10 mol/L). Ang-(1-7) attenuated the effect of ACh in decreasing the intraventricular systolic, dP/dt max and dP/dt min in anesthetized Wistar and SHR. These effects were blocked by A-779. Ang-(1-7) did not change the amplitude of the hypotensive effect evoked by ACh in Wistar or SHRs. In isolated hearts, Ang-(1-7) also attenuated the reduction of the intraventricular systolic pressure, dP/dt max and dP/dt min evoked by ACh. A-779 blocked the Ang-(1-7) effects in hearts from Wistar. A-779 or D-PRO did not modify the effects of Ang-(1-7) in hearts from SHR, but in presence of D-PRO, Ang-(1-7) effects were equipotent. Ang-(1-7) attenuated the vasorelaxation induced by ACh in aorta from SHR by only in SHR group. These data suggest that Ang-(1-7) exerts differential modulation of cardiac cholinergic sensitivity during experimental primary hypertension, which is independent on blood pressure. / Estudos prévios sugerem que a Angiotensina-(1-7) [(Ang-(1-7)] é capaz de modular o controle simpático cardíaco e sensibilidade beta-adrenérgica. Entretanto, ainda não se sabe se a Ang-(1-7) consegue modular a atividade colinérgica no coração. O objetivo deste estudo foiavaliar a influência da Ang-(1-7) na sensibilidade colinérgica cardíaca de ratos normotensos e hipertensos. Wistar e Ratos Espontaneamente Hipertensos (SHR) foram anestesiados com uretano e submetidos à canulação de artéria femoral e ventrículo esquerdo cardíaco para registro de pressão arterial e intraventricular, respectivamente. Em seguida, foi realizada uma curva dose-resposta de acetilcolina (ACh, 10, 20, 40 e 80 ng/Kg, i.v.) por infusão pela veia femoral. A infusão ocorreu na presença e ausência de Ang-(1-7) (7 x 10-12 mol/min), do antagonista do receptor Mas, A-779 (7 x 10-11 mol/min) ou de Ang-(1-7)+A-779. Os corações isolados foram perfundidos de acordo com a técnica de Langendorff e concentrações crescentes de ACh (10-7 a 10-5 mol/L) foram adicionadas aos corações na presença ou ausência de Ang-(1-7), (2 x 10-11 mol/L), A-779, (2 x 10-10 mol/L), Ang-(1-7)+A-779, antagonista do receptor MrgD, D-PRO (2 x 10-10 mol/L) ou D-PRO+Ang-(1-7). O vasorrelaxamento induzido pela ACh foi mensurado na presença ou ausência da Ang-(1-7) (2 x 10-11 mol/L ou 2 x 10-10 mol/L). Em Wistar e SHR anestesiados, a Ang-(1-7) atenuou o efeito da ACh na queda da pressão intraventricular sistólica, dP/dt máx, e dP/dt mín. Estes efeitos foram bloqueados pelo A-779. A Ang-(1-7) não alterou a resposta hipotensora da ACh em Wistar ou SHR. Nos corações isolados, a Ang-(1-7) também atenuou a redução na pressão intraventricular sistólica, dP/dt máx e dP/dt mín evocados pela ACh. O A-779 bloqueou os efeitos da Ang-(1-7) em corações de Wistar. O A-779 ou D-PRO, per se, não modificaram os efeitos da Ang-(1-7) em corações de SHR, mas na presença do D-PRO, a Ang-(1-7) apresentou efeitos similares. O vasorrelaxamento da aorta induzido pela ACh foi atenuado pela Ang-(1-7) apenas nos SHR. Estes dados sugerem que a Ang-¬(1-¬7) modula o sistema colinérgico cardíaco de forma diferente no modelo de hipertensão primária experimental e de maneira independente de ajustes na pressão arterial.

Made available in DSpace on 2016-08-17T17:11:01Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 DISSERTACAO_CELSO HENRIQUE SOUZA COSTA BARROS.pdf: 1419210 bytes, checksum: a1822ff5960d1998e001de7cc8bb7379 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2015-02-26 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior / The objective was to evaluate the effect of inhibition of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) with enalapril maleate in follicular development, gene expression of granulosa cells and in vivo production of embryos in cattle. In Experiment 1, we used four Girolando (Bos taurus x Bos indicus) cows to evaluate the potential suppression of cardiocirculatory system and validation of the effective dose of Enalapril Maleate. Was administered 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 mg / kg of enalapril maleate and measured mean arterial pressure (MAP). The best effective dose was 0.4 mg / kg and was used in the experiments 2 and 3. In Experiment 2, we used 20 Nelore (Bos indicus) cows to measure the MAP and ovarian vascular density at 0, 2, 4 7, 10 and 24 hours after Enalapril administration. In Experiment 3, twelve Nelore (Bos indicus) cows were used. These were distributed homogeneously in two treatments: a) Enalapril Group; females subjected to superovulation protocol receiving enalapril maleate (20 mg / 5 ml) from D3 to D7 of protocol and b) Control Group; females subjected to superovulation protocol received placebo (saline 0.9 %) on the same dates and volume. In Experiment 4, follicular fluid and granulosa cells were collected in vivo by ultrasound guided follicular aspiration. Then was performed mRNA extraction and RT-PCR for the expression of enzymes P450 aromatase, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and MAS receptor. No effect of enalapril on MAP in animals treated with up to 0.3 mg / kg. Doses of 0.4 and 0.5 significantly decreased MAP in a dose-dependent level (P <0.05). There was no significant effect of enalapril maleate or the harvest time in MAP of Bos indicus cows. Enalapril significantly reduced vascular density ovarian up to 24 hours after administration. No effect of Enalapril on anovulatory follicles and corpora lutea (P> 0.05). The ovulation rate was significantly higher in the Enalapril group (P <0.001). Gene expression was similar between treated and untreated cows. The ACE inhibition through administration of Enalapril Maleate reduced MAP and ovarian vascular density, but not improved follicular growth did not increase the expression of genes associated with follicular development and did not increases in vivo production of embryos in superstimulated cows. / Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da inibição da Enzima Conversora de Angiotensina (ECA) com Maleato de Enalapril no desenvolvimento folicular, expressão gênica de células da granulosa e produção in vivo de embriões em bovinos. No Experimento 1, utilizou-se quatro fêmeas da raça Girolando (Bos taurus x Bos indicus), para avaliação do potencial efeito supressivo cardiocirculatório e validação da dose efetiva de Maleato de Enalapril. Foram administrados 0,2, 0,3, 0,4 e 0,5 mg/Kg de maleato de enalapril e mensurada a pressão arterial média (PAM). A melhor dose efetiva foi de 0,4mg/ Kg e foi utilizada nos experimentos 2 e 3. No Experimento 2, utilizou-se 20 fêmeas da raça Nelore (Bos indicus) para aferir a PAM e a desnidade vascular ovariana 0, 2, 4, 7, 10 e 24 horas após a administração do Enalapril. No Experimento 3, foram utilizadas 12 fêmeas da raça Nelore (Bos indicus) homogeneamente distribuidas em dois diferentes tratamentos: a) grupo enalapril; fêmeas submetidas ao protocolo de superovulação que receberam solução de maleato de enalapril na concentração de 20 mg/5 mL/via subcutânea, do dia D3 a D7 e o grupo controle, fêmeas submetidas ao protocolo de superovulação, receberam placebo (solução fisiológica 0,9%) nas mesmas datas e volume. No Experimento 4, foi realizada a recuperação in vivo de fluido folicular e células da granulosa através da aspiração folicular, extração de RNAm e RT-PCR para avaliação da expressão da enzima P450 aromatase, enzima conversora de angiotensina 2 (ECA2) e para o receptor MAS. Não houve efeito do Enalapril sobre a PAM em animais tratados com até 0,3 mg/kg. As doses de 0,4 e 0,5 diminuiram significativamente a PAM em escala dose-dependente (P<0,05). Não houve efeito significativo da administração do Maleato de Enalapril nem do horário de colheita na PAM das fêmeas Nelore estudadas. O Enalapril diminuiu significativamente a densidade vascular ovariana por até 24 horas após a administração. Não houve efeito do Enalapril no número de folículos anovulatórios e número de corpos lúteos no D15 (P>0,05). A taxa de ovulação foi significativamente maior no grupo tratado (P<0,001). A expressão de genes foi similar entre as fêmeas tratadas ou não tratadas. A inibição da ECA por meio da administração do Maleato de Enalapril reduziu a PAM e a densidade vascular ovariana, porém não melhorou o crescimento folicular, não aumentou a expressão de genes associados ao desenvolvimento folicular e não potencializou a produção in vivo de embriões em vacas da raça Nelore (Bos indicus) superestimuladas.

De nombreuses études ont bien démontré que l’activation du système rénine-angiotensine (RAS) joue un rôle important dans le développement de l’hypertension et de la néphropathie diabétique (DN). La découverte de l’enzyme de conversion de l’angiotensine-2 (ACE2) et l’identification du récepteur MAS, spécifique pour l’angiotensine 1-7 (Ang 1-7), ont permis d’identifier deux nouveaux membres du RAS. L’axe ACE2/Ang 1-7/MAS contrebalance les effets de l’axe ACE/Ang II/AT1. Plusieurs évidences impliquent la contribution du RAS intrarénal dans la DN. Des études réalisées dans notre laboratoire avec des souris transgéniques surexprimant l’angiotensinogène de rat dans les cellules de leurs tubules proximaux rénaux (RPTCs) ont permis de démontrer l’importance du RAS intrarénal dans l’induction de l’hypertension et les dommages rénaux. Nous avons également observé que l’expression rénale de l’ACE2 et les niveaux urinaires d’ANG 1-7 sont plus faibles chez les souris Akita (diabète de type 1) et qu’un traitement avec des bloqueurs du RAS permet de normaliser l’expression de l’ACE2 et de prévenir le développement de l’hypertension dans le modèle des souris Akita. Dans un milieu diabétique, à la fois la glycémie et l’angiotensine II (Ang II) peuvent induire la génération des espèces réactives de l’oxygène (ROS), contribuant ainsi aux dommages rénaux. Afin d’explorer la relation entre les ROS, ACE2 et la DN, nous avons créé des souris Akita transgéniques surexprimant la catalase (Cat) dans les RPTCs, en croisant des souris Akita diabétique de type 1 à notre modèle de souris transgéniques surexprimant la Cat de rat dans les RPTCs. Dans une seconde étude, des souris Akita ont été traitées avec l’Ang 1-7 ou une combinaison d’Ang 1-7 et de son antagoniste, A779, afin d’étudier la relation entre l’action de l’Ang 1-7, l’hypertension systolique (sHTN), le stress oxydatif, les dommages rénaux, ACE2 et l’expression du récepteur Mas. Nos résultats ont montré que la surexpression de Cat atténue le stress oxydatif rénal; prévient l’hypertension, améliore le taux de filtration glomérulaire, l’albuminurie, l’hypertrophie rénale, la fibrose tubulo-interstitielle et l’apoptose tubulaire; et supprime l’expression des gènes profibrotiques et proapoptotiques dans les RPTCs des souris Akita Cat-Tg lorsque comparées aux souris Akita. De plus, la surexpression de Cat dans les RPTC des souris Akita normalise l’expression rénale de l’ACE2 et les niveaux urinaires d’Ang 1-7. D’autre part, l’administration d’Ang 1-7 prévient l’hypertension systémique, normalise le ratio albumine/créatinine urinaire et atténue l’hyperfiltration glomérulaire des souris Akita, sans affecter la glycémie sanguine. De plus, le traitement avec l’Ang 1-7 atténue aussi le stress oxydatif et l’expression de la NADPH oxydase, Agt, ACE, TGF-β1 (transforming growth factor-β1) et collagène IV, tout en augmentant l’expression de l’ACE2 et du récepteur Mas dans les reins des souris Akita. Ces effets sont renversés par la co-admininstration d’A779. Ces résultats démontrent que la surexpression de Cat prévient l’hypertension et la progression de la néphropathie, en plus de mettre en lumière l’importance du stress oxydatif intrarénal et l’expression de l’ACE2 comme facteurs contribuant à l’hypertension et les dommages rénaux observés dans le diabète. En outre, nos données suggèrent que l’Ang 1-7 joue un rôle protecteur dans l’hypertension et les dommages aux RPTC dans le diabète, principalement en réduisant les voies de signalisations du stress oxydatif dans les reins et en normalisant l’expression de l’ACE2 et du récepteur Mas. Nos résultats indiquent aussi que l’Ang 1-7 pourrait agir comme un agent thérapeutique potentiel dans le traitement de l’hypertension systémique et les dommages rénaux observés dans le diabète. En conséquence, l’Ang 1-7 est responsable du rôle protecteur de l’ACE2 dans l’hypertension et la DN. / It is well accepted that renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activation plays an important role in the development of hypertension and diabetic nephropathy (DN). With the discovery of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) and recognition of MAS as the receptor of Angiotensin 1-7 (Ang 1-7), new players in RAS, ACE2/Ang 1-7/MAS axis, have been identified to counteract the effect of ACE/Ang II/ AT1 axis. Evidence implicates the intrarenal RAS’s contribution to DN. Previous studies from our laboratory using transgenic mice overexpressing rat Angiotensinogen (Agt) in their renal proximal tubular cells (RPTCs) have demonstrated the importance of the intrarenal RAS in renal damage and the induction of hypertension. We also recently observed that renal ACE2 expression and urinary Ang 1–7 were lower in type 1 diabetic Akita mice and that treatment with RAS blockers normalized ACE2 expression and prevented hypertension development in these Akita mice. In the diabetic milieu, both glycemia and angiotensin II (Ang II) can induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, which contributes to kidney injury. To explore the relationship among ROS, ACE2 and DN, we created Akita transgenic mice overexpressing catalase (Cat) in RPTCs by crossbreeding type I diabetic Akita mice with our established transgenic mice overexpressing rat Cat in RPTCs. In another study, Akita mice were treated with Ang 1-7 or combination of Ang 1-7 and its antagonist, A779, to investigate the relations between Ang 1-7 action, systolic hypertension (sHTN), oxidative stress, kidney injury, ACE2 and Mas receptor expression. Our results showed that overexpression of Cat attenuated renal oxidative stress; prevented hypertension; ameliorated glomerular filtration rate, albuminuria, kidney hypertrophy, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and tubular apoptosis; and suppressed profibrotic and proapoptotic gene expression in RPTCs of Akita Cat-Tg mice compared with Akita mice. Furthermore, overexpression of Cat in RPTCs of Akita mice normalized renal ACE2 expression and urinary Ang 1–7 levels. On the other hand, Ang 1-7 administration prevented systemic hypertension, normalized urinary albumin/creatinine ratio and attenuated glomerular hyperfiltration without affecting blood glucose levels in Akita mice. Furthermore, Ang 1-7 treatment also attenuated oxidative stress and the expression of NADPH oxidase 4, Agt, ACE, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and collagen IV, and increased the expression of ACE2 and Mas receptor in Akita mouse kidneys. These effects were reversed by co-administration of A779. These data demonstrated that Cat overexpression prevents hypertension and progression of nephropathy and highlight the importance of intrarenal oxidative stress and ACE2 expression contributing to hypertension and renal injury in diabetes. Furthermore, our data suggest that Ang 1-7 plays a protective role in hypertension and RPTC injury in diabetes, predominantly through decreasing renal oxidative stress-mediated signaling and normalizing ACE2 and Mas receptor expression. Our results also indicate Ang 1-7 as a potential therapeutic agent for treatment of systemic hypertension and kidney injury in diabetes. Therefore, Ang 1-7 mediates the major protective role of ACE2 in the hypertension and DN.