LAUSR

Melatonin is released by the pineal gland and can modulate cardiovascular system function via the G protein-coupled melatonin receptors MT 1 and MT 2 . Most vessels are surrounded by perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT), which affects their contractility. The aim of our study was to evaluate mRNA and protein expression of MT 1 and MT 2 in the mesenteric artery (MA) and associated PVAT of male rats by RT-PCR and Western blot. Receptor localization was further studied by immunofluorescence microscopy. Effects of melatonin on neurogenic contractions were explored in isolated superior MA ex vivo by measurement of isometric contractile tension. MT 1 , but not MT 2 , was present in MA, and MT 1 was localized mainly in vascular smooth muscle. Moreover, we proved the presence of MT 1 , but not MT 2 receptors, in MA-associated PVAT. In isolated superior MA with intact PVAT, neuro-adrenergic contractile responses were significantly smaller when compared to arteries with removed PVAT. Pre-treatment with melatonin of PVAT-stripped arterial rings enhanced neurogenic contractions, while the potentiating effect of melatonin was not detected in preparations with preserved PVAT. We hypothesize that melatonin can stimulate the release of PVAT-derived relaxing factor(s) via MT 1 , which can override the direct pro-contractile effect of melatonin on vascular smooth muscle. Our results suggest that melatonin is involved in the control of vascular tone in a complex way, which is vessel specific and can reflect a sum of action on different layers of the vessel wall and surrounding PVAT.