ИСТИНА

High­salt consumption contributes to the development of hypertension and is considered an independent risk factor for vascular remodelling, cardiac hypertrophy and stroke incidence. High­salt intake may contribute to the development of various disorders via signals triggered by augmented concentration of extracellular sodium ([Na+]o), chloride ([Cl­]o) and osmolarity of the extracellular fluids determined by combined elevation of [Na+]o and [Cl­]o. Our results strongly suggest that Na+i/K+i alterations play a key role in affecting the transcription of genes in endothelial cells (HUVEC) exposed to hyperosmotic conditions. This conclusion is supported by the following evidences. First, an increase in extracellular NaCl from 125 to 140 mM influenced the Na+i/K+i gradient in HUVEC. Second, COX2, IL6, IL1LR1 were found to be downregulated upon cells exposure to elevated NaCl medium. Third, we did not detect an altered abundance of NFAT5 protein in response to the increase in extracellular NaCl by 15 mM within 24 hours. Forth, neither Na+i/K+i ratio, nor the content of COX2, IL6, IL1LR1 was affected by exposure of HUVEC to the medium containing 125 mM NaCl and 30 mM mannitol. Fifth, the change in osmolarity of the extracellular medium, either due to the addition of NaCl or mannitol, had no effect on the mechanical properties of endothelial cells. This work was supported by Russian Science Foundation, grant number 19­75­10009