Evaluation of CART-, glucagon-, and insulin-immunoreactive cells in the pancreas of an experimental rat model of unilateral renal artery stenosis

Hypertension is one of the most frequently occurring diseases worldwide. Approximately 10% of the population with hypertension reveal the secondary type of hypertension. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cells containing CART, insulin and glucagon in the pancreas of rats with renovascular hypertension. An experimental model of hypertension in rats according to Goldblatt (2K1C model of hypertension) was used in the study. The experimental material (pancreas) was collected in the 6th week of the study. Cells containing CART, insulin and glucagon were evaluated using immunohistochemical and morphometric methods. Pancreatic islet cells were evaluated based on the number and intensity of staining. The investigation showed an increase in the number and immunoreactivity of CART containing cells, 6 weeks after partial unilateral ligation of the renal artery. There was a significant decrease in the number of glucagon-IR cells. Although intensity of staining these cells did not change. No differences were observed in the number and staining affinity of insulin-containing cells. On the basis of the study it can be stated that the endocrine system of pancreas undergoes changes in the course of renovascular hypertension. This may affect the production of hormones and contribute to the development of possible hypertension complications.