Conjugated equine estrogen treatment corrected the exacerbated aorta oxidative stress in ovariectomized spontaneously hypertensive rats

Graziela S. Ceravolo, Fernando P. Filgueira, Tiago J. Costa, Nubia S. Lobato, Andréia Z. Chignalia, Priscila X. Araujo, Rita C. Tostes, Ana P. Dantas, Zuleica B. Fortes, Maria Helena C. Carvalho

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

33 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: The increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in postmenopausal women has been linked to the decrease in plasma estrogen levels. Preparation of conjugate equine estrogens (CEE) is one of the most routinely used hormone therapy in postmenopausal women. However, studies on the vascular effects of CEE are still sparse and the mechanism of action is not completely elucidated. In this context, we have determined the effects of CEE in the vascular oxidative stress observed in ovariectomyzed (OVX) spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Mechanisms by which CEE interferes with redox-sensitive pathways and endothelial function were also determined. Results: Aortas from OVX rats exhibited increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), NADPH oxidase activity and reduced catalase protein expression, compared to aortas from sham SHR. Endothelium-intact aortic rings from OVX were hyperreactive to NE when compared to Sham aortas. This hyperreactivity was corrected by superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and endothelium removal. Treatment of OVX-SHR with CEE reduced vascular ROS generation, NADPH oxidase activity, enhanced SOD and catalase expression and also corrected the NE-hyperreactivity in aortic rings from OVX-SHR. Conclusion: Our study indicates a potential benefit of CEE therapy through a mechanism that involves reduction in oxidative stress, improving endothelial function in OVX hypertensive rats.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)341-346
Number of pages6
JournalSteroids
Volume78
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Conjugated equine estrogens
  • Hypertension
  • Ovariectomyzed rats
  • Vascular reactivity

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Biochemistry
  • Organic Chemistry

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