DNA microarray reveals changes in gene expression of shear stressed human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Using DNA microarray screening (GeneFilter 211, Research Genetics, Huntsvil le, AL) of mRNA from primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) , we identified 52 genes with significantly altered expression under shear stress [25 dynes/cm(2) for 6 or 24 h (1 dyne = 10 muN), compared with match ed stationary controls]; including several genes not heretofore recognized to be shear stress responsive. We examined mRNA expression of nine genes by Northern blot analysis, which confirmed the results obtained on DNA microa rrays. Thirty-two genes were up-regulated (by more than 2-fold), the most e nhanced being cytochromes P450 1A1 and 1B1, zinc finger protein EZF/GKLF, g lucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper protein, argininosuccinate synthase, a nd human prostaglandin transporter. Most dramatically decreased (by more th an 2-fold) were connective tissue growth factor, endothelin-1, monocyte che motactic protein-1, and spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase. The chang es observed suggest several potential mechanisms for increased NO productio n under shear stress in endothelial cells.