Citation

Patitucci M, Lugrin D, Pagès G. Acta Physiol. 2009; 196(2): 259-265.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1748-1716.2008.01915.x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Aim: 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.

Methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Conclusion: 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.