Effects of ginkgolide B on isobaric hypoxic pulmonary hypertension in rats.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effects of Ginkgolide B, a specific platelet activating factor (PAF) antagonist, on hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary vascular remodeling.


METHODS
Forty male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups, receiving normal saline, Ginkgolide B, isobaric hypoxia and isobaric hypoxia plus Ginkgolide B respectively. Pulmonary hemodynamics were assessed via right heart catheterization. Pulmonary vascular remodeling were examined by a computerized image analyser.


RESULTS
Chronic hypoxia (FiO2 = 0.10, 3 weeks) caused pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular hypertrophy in rats. Treatment with Ginkgolide B reduced the extent of pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular hypertrophy induced by hypoxic exposure.


CONCLUSIONS
The results suggest that PAF participates in the process of chronic hypoxic pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary vascular remodeling, and PAF antagonist could be a potentially useful agent for preventing hypoxic pulmonary hypertension.
Cheng
D
D
Department of Internal Medicine, First University Hospital, West China University of Medical Sciences, Chengdu.
Chen
W
W
D000818:Animals; D001160:Arterioles / Q000187:drug effects; D004224:Diterpenes; D046934:Ginkgolides; D006439:Hemodynamics / Q000187:drug effects; D006976:Hypertension, Pulmonary / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000860:Hypoxia / Q000150:complications; D007783:Lactones / Q000494:pharmacology*; D008168:Lung / Q000098:blood supply; D008297:Male; D010972:Platelet Activating Factor / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D051381:Rats; D017208:Rats, Wistar
D004224:Diterpenes; D046934:Ginkgolides; D007783:Lactones; D010972:Platelet Activating Factor; C045856:ginkgolide B