DOES SERTRALINE AFFECT CONTRACTION IN ENDOTHELIUM-DAMAGED AORTA

ABSTRACT
Aim: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) group antidepressants are frequently used in heart patients. In the study, we aimed to investigate the effects of sertraline (SE) on aortic contraction on healthy/damaged rat aorta. 
Materials and Methods: Wistar albino rats (24) were divided into group1-aorta-intact endothelium and group2-aorta-damaged endothelium. The isolated aortic tissues were placed in organ baths. Changes in the isometric tension of the aortic rings were recorded. Contractions were recorded in both groups after the application of phenylephrine (PE 10-6M). Afterwards, cumulative sertraline (SE 50 mg) (10-9-10-4M) was given to group 1. In Group 2, to control aortic endothelial damage, acetylcholine (10-6M) was applied and the tissues were washed for an hour, the second dose of PE was given, then SE was given cumulatively (10-9-10-4M), and contractions were recorded.
Results: After cumulative SE (10-9-10-4M) was given to Group 1, a significant inhibition in spontaneous contractions was detected in the first three sertraline doses (10-9,10-8,10-7)(p<0.05), and in the remaining sertraline doses contraction inhibition continued. When comparing SE 10-6,-5,-4 and 10-9,-8,-7 doses, there was inhibition of contractions (p<0.005). In group2, the inhibition of second PE contractions continued after sertraline doses, but the inhibition was observed less than in group1 (p<0.05).
Conclusion: SE inhibited PE-induced smooth muscle contraction in rat isolated aorta. PE-induced smooth muscle contractions were inhibited more slowly in the endothelium-damaged aorta. It is thought that NO release and NO-dependent vasodilation in the aorta decrease as a result of damage. A clearer understanding of the effects of sertraline on the cardiovascular system will be possible with further research.
Keywords: Aorta, endothelium, sertraline, contraction, vasorelaxation