EFFECTS OF CHRONIC ORAL CONSUMPTION OF NICOTINE ON THE RABBIT AORTIC ENDOTHELIUM

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  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 102  (2) , 229-239
Abstract
Ten New Zealand white rabbits were administered daily doses of nicotine (2.4 mg/kg per day) in their drinking water for 25 wk. Nicotine-treated rabbits were compared with 10 control rabbits in terms of blood serum biochemistry and lipid profiles, blood cell counts, changes in aortic endothelial cell morphologic characteristics and distribution and vessel wall permeability (Evans blue dye uptake). Fasting serum levels of glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol were elevated in nicotine-treated rabbits. No significant differences (nicotine vs. control) were seen in leukocyte, erythrocyte and platelet counts or hematocrit and Hb. Control and nicotine-treated rabbit aortas showed similar focal areas of increased Evans blue dye uptake; staining was localized primarily to aortic arch areas. Endothelial cells (luminal surface) from non-Evans blue and Evans blue arch areas were examined by a combination of Haeutchen preparations (Ag-stained vessels) and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Endothelial cells from nicotine-treated arch areas (Evans-blue-stained) showed extensive changes such as increased cytoplasmic Ag deposition, increased formation of microvilli and numerous focal areas of ruffled endothelium (projections on cell surfaces). Nicotine, administered orally to rabbits, has a demonstrable in vivo morphologic effect on endothelial cells in the aortic arch. [Cigarette smoking appears to be a cardiovascular disease risk factor.].