Down-regulation of genes related to the adrenergic system may contribute to splanchnic vasodilation in rat portal hypertension

Background/Aims Splanchnic vasodilation initiates the hyperdynamic syndrome in portal hypertension. We aimed to explore molecular mechanisms involved in the development of mesenteric vasodilation in portal hypertension. Methods Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) samples from portal vein ligated (PVL) and sham rats were compared in a time course experiment using DNA microarrays. Selected genes were quantified by qRT-PCR in PVL and cirrhotic rats. Inmunohistochemistry of tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) and norepinephrine was assessed in SMA sections of PVL and sham rats. Western blot analysis of Th, dopamine β-hydroxylase (Dbh) and synaptosome-associated protein (Snap-25) was performed in SMA and jejunum samples from the animal models. Results Fifty differentially expressed genes implicated in neurotransmission, especially adrenergic, were detected in SMA samples from PVL rats. Sequential analysis showed a profound down-regulation at 14 days in PVL rats. These down-regulated genes were confirmed by RT-PCR in SMA from PVL and cirrhotic rats. Th and NE detection by immunohistochemistry was reduced in PVL compared to sham. Th, Dbh and Snap-25 expression was lower in SMA from 14-day PVL and cirrhotic rats compared to sham and control rats, respectively. Conclusions Genetic down-regulation of genes related to the adrenergic system might have a role in splanchnic vasodilation of portal hypertension.