Effects of fasudil on hypoxic pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary vascular remodeling in rats

AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Rho kinase inhibitor-Fasudil on hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH) and pulmonary vascular remodeling in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 24 Sprague Dawley rats were evenly randomized into control, model and Fasudil intervention groups. Light and transmission electron microscopy were utilized to observe pulmonary vascular remodeling as well as ultrastructural changes in pulmonary arteriole endothelial cells. RESULTS: The model group showed apparent pulmonary vascular remodeling, pulmonary arteriole endothelial cell injury, the proliferation and swelling of smooth muscle cells around, and the proliferation of collagen fibers. Fasudil intervention improved pulmonary vascular remodeling as well as relieved pulmonary arteriole endothelial cell injury and the proliferation of smooth muscle cells and collagen fibers. CONCLUSIONS: Fasudil has preventive and reverse effects on HPH, pulmonary vascular remodeling, and pulmonary arteriole endothelial cell injury.