Epigenetic down-regulation of BK_Ca channel by miR-181a contributes to the fetal and neonatal nicotine-mediated exaggerated coronary vascular tone in adult life.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Fetal origin of adult cardiovascular disease is one of the most pressing public concerns and economic problem in modern life. Maternal cigarette smoking/nicotine abuse increases the risk of cardiovascular disease in offspring. However, the underlying mechanisms and theranostics remain unclear. We hypothesized that fetal and neonatal nicotine exposure enhances microRNA-181a (miR-181a) which targets large-conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ (BK_Ca) channels, resulting in increased coronary vascular tone in adult offspring.

Methods

Nicotine or saline was administered to pregnant rats via subcutaneous osmotic minipumps from gestational day 4 until postnatal day 10. Experiments were conducted in adult (~6 month old) male offspring.

Results<

SUBMITTER: Liu B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6392075 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature