[Encapsulated ANP cDNA transfection cells attenuate hypertension in hypertensive rats].
OBJECTIVE: We Investigated a gene therapy delivery system based on microcapsules enclosing recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells engineered to secrete a therapeutic peptide-atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). METHOD: Human atrial natriuretic peptide gene transfecting Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells were encapsulated in non-antigenic biocompatible polycaprolactone (PCL) capsules prior to their implantation into rats, then, the PCL-tubes were implanted into hypertensive DSS rats intraperitoneally. RESULT: The PCL-tubes 2 d post implantation caused a significant delay of blood pressure increase. The effect lasted for more than 5 months. The PCL-tubes also caused significant increases in renal blood flow, glomerular filtration rate, sodium output, urine excretion. Plasma levels of ANP in rats implanted with the PCL-tubes containing engineering cells is higher than that of the control rats. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates encapsulated engineering cells have significant potential in treatment of hypertension.