Effects of Beraprost on Intestinal Microcirculation and Barrier Function in a Mouse Model of Renal Failure

Objective

Endothelial dysfunction plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease. Prostacyclin (PGI₂), an endothelial cell-produced endogenous prostaglandin, plays a crucial role in maintaining endothelial function. However, its effects on intestinal microcirculation and barrier function are not fully understood. We hypothesized that PGI₂ improves intestinal microcirculation and barrier function via endothelial protective effects.

Methods

ICR and ICGN (a spontaneous nephrotic model) mice were used in this study. Intestinal microcirculation was visualized in vivo to investigate PGI₂ effects. Beraprost served as PGI₂. PGI₂ administration spanned 4 weeks, following which we assessed its influence on intestinal endothelial, intestinal barrier, and renal functions.

Results

We visualized intestinal microcirculation and endothelial glycocalyx in the intestinal blood vessels. Beraprost administration induced a 1.2-fold dilatation of the vascular diameter of the small intestine. Intestinal blood flow in ICGN mice was significantly reduced compared that in ICR mice but improved with beraprost administration. ICGN mice exhibited reduced serum albumin levels, decreased ambulation, an imbalance in intestinal reactive oxygen species (ROS)/nitric oxide (NO), and impaired tight junctions; all were ameliorated by beraprost administration.

Conclusions

Beraprost improves intestinal microcirculation and barrier function by ameliorating ROS/NO imbalances, thereby reducing physical inactivity during renal failure.