Differential action of steroid hormones on human endothelium

• DOI: 10.1242/jcs.02886
• Publication Date: 2006-04-24T16:29:27Z
• Authors: Hans Oberleithner; Christoph Riethmu...; Thomas Ludwig; Victor Shahin; Christian Stock; Albrecht Schwab; Martin Hausberg; Kristina Kusche; Hermann Schillers
• Keywords: Mineralocorticoid

The action of glucocorticoids on vascular permeability is well established. However, little known about the mineralocorticoids structure and function blood vessels. As endothelial cells are targets for both mineralocorticoids, we exposed human umbilical vein to types steroids. Aldosterone (mineralocorticoid) dexamethasone (glucocorticoid) were applied 3 days in culture before measurements transendothelial ion macromolecule permeability, apical cell surface stiffness taken. Transendothelial was measured with electrical impedance sensing, fluorescence-labeled dextran membrane by three-dimensional AFM imaging. Cell using scanning tip as a mechanical nanosensor. We found that aldosterone increased significantly, while remained unaffected. By contrast, significantly decreased did not change. Specific receptor antagonists (RU486) (spironolactone) prevented observed responses. conclude strengthen cell-to-cell contacts (;peripheral action'), whereas enlarge stiffen (;central action'). This could explain dexamethasone-mediated retention fluid system, dysfunction states hyperaldosteronism.