Increased myoendothelial feedback is associated with increased connexin37 and IK1 channel expression in mesenteric arteries of diet-induced hyperhomocysteinemic mice.

Objective: Previously, we found that diet-induced HHcy in mice caused decreased eNOS expression and signaling in mesenteric arteries, but greatly enhanced non-NOS, non-prostacyclin-dependent vasodilation, which involves MEJ communication. To further assess whether HHcy enhances MEJ communication, this study examined endothelium-dependent attenuation of phenylephrine-induced vasoconstriction (myoendothelial feedback) and key molecules involved.

Methods: Myoendothelial feedback was examined in isolated mouse mesenteric arteries, after 6-weeks diet-induced HHcy, using pressure myography.