Cyclic AMP elevating agents and nitric oxide modulate angiotensin II-induced leukocyte-endothelial cell interactionsin vivo

Angiotensin (Ang-II) is a key molecule in the development of cardiac ischaemic disorders and displays proinflammatory activity in vivo. Since intracellular cyclic nucleotides elevating agents have proved to be effective modulators of leukocyte recruitment, we have evaluated their effect on Ang-II-induced leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions in vivo using intravital microscopy within the rat mesenteric microcirculation. Pretreatment with iloprost significantly inhibited (1 nM) Ang-II-induced increase in leukocyte rolling flux, adhesion and emigration at 60 min by 96, 92 and 90% respectively, and returned leukocyte rolling velocity to basal levels. Pretreatment with salbutamol or co-superf…