Angiogenic/lymphangiogenic factors and adaptation to extreme altitudes during an expedition to Mount Everest

作者：Patitucci M; Lugrin D; Pages G^*

来源：Acta Physiologica, 2009, 196(2): 259-265.

DOI：10.1111/j.1748-1716.2008.01915.x

• angiogenesis
• extreme altitudes
• hypoxia
• lymphangiogenesis

To analyse the correlation between production of angiogenic [vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and interleukin 8 (IL-8)] and lymphangiogenic factors (VEGF-C and D) and adaptation to high altitude (> 8000 m). Erythropoietin (EPO) served as a positive control.
We analysed the percentage of oxygen saturation and the plasmatic contents of VEGF-A, C, D, IL-8 and EPO in seven mountaineers and four Sherpas during an expedition to Mount Everest. Acute mountain sickness was also evaluated using the Lake Louise score.
Whereas VEGF-A, IL-8, VEGF-C and EPO were transiently up-regulated at 5000 m and decreased at the highest altitudes, VEGF-D remained elevated throughout the ascent. Sherpas had increased basal levels of VEGF-A, C, IL-8 and EPO and up-regulation of all the tested factors when they passed the altitude at which they lived.
Our data suggest that expression of angiogenic and lymphangiogenic factors is up-regulated directly or indirectly by altitude-dependent hypoxia. Both factors could be involved in a mechanism of adaptation to high altitudes.

• 出版日期2009-6