Angiotensin II induces Connective Tissue Growth Factor in the AdventitialFibroblasts

ObjectiveTo test the hypothesis that angiotensin Ⅱ(Ang Ⅱ) can induce the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in vascular adventitia fibrobasts(AF). Methods The vascular AF isolated from WKY was cultured by the explant method and identified immunohistochemically. The effect of Ang Ⅱ on CTGF protein expression was assessed by immunohistochemical and Western blot method. We also studied the effects of AT 1 receptor antagonist losartan and AT2 antagonist PD123319 on CTGF protein expression. Results Ang Ⅱ increasedCTGF expression. Ang Ⅱ in a time and dose dependent manner with a maximal effect after 24 h and a dose of 10~ -7mol/L.These effects were blocked by pre-incubation with the AT1 antagonist losartan, but not AT2 antagonist PD123319.Conclusion Our results show that Ang Ⅱ increases CTGF in adventitia fibroblasts via AT 1 receptor.