Bisphenol A interferes with swine vascular endothelial cell functions

Several studies have demonstrated that the endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) negatively affects animal and human health. An angiogenic process has been suggested among the events disrupted by this molecule, but the underlying mechanisms have not yet been clarified. The effect of BPA on angiogenesis was investigated by means of a bioassay previously validated in our laboratory. Using immortalized swine aortic endothelial cell line (AOC), the development of new blood vessels through a three-dimensional in vitro angiogenesis assay was evaluated. Subsequently, since vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and nitric oxide (NO) are key players in the regulation of the angiogenic process, the effect of BPA on the production of these molecules by AOC was examined. BPA (10 mu mol/L) stimulated AOC growth (p < 0.05) and VEGF production (p < 0.05), but did not modify NO levels. Our data suggest that the endocrine-disrupting effects of BPA could also be associated with the promotion of vascular growth, thus interfering with a physiologically finely tuned process resulting from a delicate balance of numerous molecular processes. The stimulatory effects of BPA on VEGF production may have negative implications, potentially switching the balance toward uncontrolled neovascularization. Moreover, since angiogenesis is involved in several pathologies, including cancer growth and progression, potential health risks of BPA exposure should be carefully monitored.