Increased systemic low-grade inflammation in high altitude native rats mediated by adrenergic receptors

Objectives: To compare the serum levels of inflammatory mediators in high altitude (HA) native rats, and to search for the possible underlying mechanism(s). Methods: The study was carried out between January and April 2013. Fifty male rats from the same genetic pool were bred at either a HA or low altitude (LA) area. The study was carried out in 2 stages. In the first stage, serum levels of inflammatory markers, adhesive molecules, lipid profiles, catecholamines, magnesium (Mg +2 ), and lipid peroxidation were compared between theses 2 groups. In the second stages, inflammatory response and lipid peroxidation were analyzed in HA native rats after treatment with either α (Prazosin) or s (propranolol) adrenergic blockage. Results: The HA native rats showed significant increases in the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, lipid profiles, as well as a significant increase in the urinary norepinephrine with a concomitant decrease in the serum levels of Mg +2 and increased lipid peroxidation. Blockage of the s and α adrenergic receptors of the HA rats caused partial or complete decreases in both inflammatory and oxidative stress mediators. Conclusion: Living under HA conditions results in an increased systemic inflammatory reaction; an effect that is mediated through the sympathetic nervous system mainly via α -adrenergic receptors and could be attributed to low Mg +2 levels.