Aim: To study the effect of chronic hypoxic hypercapnia on expression of COX-2 mRNA in pulmonary arterioles.
Methods: SD rats were randomly divided into two groups: control group and hypoxic hypercapnic group. COX-2 mRNA was observed in pulmonary arterioles by the technique of in situ hybridization.
Results: mPAP, weight ratio of right ventricle (RV) to left ventricle plus septum (LV + S) and COX-2 mRNA in pulmonary arterioles were much higher in rats of hypoxic hypercapnic group than those of control group. Light microscopy showed that vessel smooth muscle cell hypertrophy and vessel cavity straightness were found in hypoxic hypercapnic group.
Conclusion: Changes of expressions of COX-2 mRNA may regulate hypoxic hypercapnic pulmonary hypertension.