Effect of dopamine on renin secretion in the anesthetized dog

Arachidonic Acid as Mechanotransducer of Renin Cell Baroreceptor

For normal maintenance of blood pressure and blood volume a well-balanced renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAS) is necessary. For this purpose, renin is secreted as the situation demands by the juxtaglomerular cells (also called as granular cells) that are in the walls of the afferent arterioles. Juxtaglomerular cells can sense minute changes in the blood pressure and blood volume and accordingly synthesize, store, and secrete appropriate amounts of renin. Thus, when the blood pressure and blood volume are decreased JGA cells synthesize and secrete higher amounts of renin and when the blood pressure and blood volume is increased the synthesis and secretion of renin is decreased such that homeostasis is restored. To decipher this important function, JGA cells (renin cells) need to sense and transmit the extracellular physical forces to their chromatin to control renin gene expression for appropriate renin synthesis. The changes in perfusion pressure are sensed by Integrin β1 that is transmitted to the renin cell’s nucleus via lamin A/C that produces changes in the architecture of the chromatin. This results in an alteration (either increase or decrease) in renin gene expression. Cell membrane is situated in an unique location since all stimuli need to be transmitted to the cell nucleus and messages from the DNA to the cell external environment can be conveyed only through it. This implies that cell membrane structure and integrity is essential for all cellular functions. Cell membrane is composed to proteins and lipids. The lipid components of the cell membrane regulate its (cell membrane) fluidity and the way the messages are transmitted between the cell and its environment. Of all the lipids present in the membrane, arachidonic acid (AA) forms an important constituent. In response to pressure and other stimuli, cellular and nuclear shape changes occur that render nucleus to act as an elastic mechanotransducer that produces not only changes in cell shape but also in its dynamic behavior. Cell shape changes in response to external pressure(s) result(s) in the activation of cPLA2 (cytosolic phospholipase 2)-AA pathway that stretches to recruit myosin II which produces actin-myosin cytoskeleton contractility. Released AA can undergo peroxidation and peroxidized AA binds to DNA to regulate the expression of several genes. Alterations in the perfusion pressure in the afferent arterioles produces parallel changes in the renin cell membrane leading to changes in renin release. AA and its metabolic products regulate not only the release of renin but also changes in the vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) expression in renal sensory nerves. Thus, AA and its metabolites function as intermediate/mediator molecules in transducing changes in perfusion and mechanical pressures that involves nuclear mechanotransduction mechanism. This mechanotransducer function of AA has relevance to the synthesis and release of insulin, neurotransmitters, and other soluble mediators release by specialized and non-specialized cells. Thus, AA plays a critical role in diseases such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, sepsis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer.

A Large-Scale Multi-ancestry Genome-wide Study Accounting for Smoking Behavior Identifies Multiple Significant Loci for Blood Pressure

Genome-wide association analysis advanced understanding of blood pressure (BP), a major risk factor for vascular conditions such as coronary heart disease and stroke. Accounting for smoking behavior may help identify BP loci and extend our knowledge of its genetic architecture. We performed genome-wide association meta-analyses of systolic and diastolic BP incorporating gene-smoking interactions in 610,091 individuals. Stage 1 analysis examined ∼18.8 million SNPs and small insertion/deletion variants in 129,913 individuals from four ancestries (European, African, Asian, and Hispanic) with follow-up analysis of promising variants in 480,178 additional individuals from five ancestries. We identified 15 loci that were genome-wide significant (p < 5 × 10-8) in stage 1 and formally replicated in stage 2. A combined stage 1 and 2 meta-analysis identified 66 additional genome-wide significant loci (13, 35, and 18 loci in European, African, and trans-ancestry, respectively). A total of 56 known BP loci were also identified by our results (p < 5 × 10-8). Of the newly identified loci, ten showed significant interaction with smoking status, but none of them were replicated in stage 2. Several loci were identified in African ancestry, highlighting the importance of genetic studies in diverse populations. The identified loci show strong evidence for regulatory features and support shared pathophysiology with cardiometabolic and addiction traits. They also highlight a role in BP regulation for biological candidates such as modulators of vascular structure and function (CDKN1B, BCAR1-CFDP1, PXDN, EEA1), ciliopathies (SDCCAG8, RPGRIP1L), telomere maintenance (TNKS, PINX1, AKTIP), and central dopaminergic signaling (MSRA, EBF2).

Control of renin synthesis and secretion

The aspartyl protease renin is the rate limiting activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Renin is synthesized as an enzymatically inactive proenzyme which is constitutively secreted from several tissues. Only renin-expressing cells in the kidney are capable of generating active renin from prorenin, which is stored in prominent vesicles and which is released into the circulation upon demand. The acute release of renin is controlled by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and by calcium signaling pathways, which in turn are activated by a number of systemic and local factors. Longer lasting challenges of renin secretion lead to changes in the number of renin-producing cells, which occur by a metaplastic transformation of renin cell precursors such as preglomerular vascular smooth muscle or extraglomerular mesangial cells. This review aims to briefly address the state of knowledge of these various aspects of renin synthesis and secretion and attempts to relate them to the in vivo situation, in particular in men.

Physiology of Kidney Renin

The protease renin is the key enzyme of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone cascade, which is relevant under both physiological and pathophysiological settings. The kidney is the only organ capable of releasing enzymatically active renin. Although the characteristic juxtaglomerular position is the best known site of renin generation, renin-producing cells in the kidney can vary in number and localization. (Pro)renin gene transcription in these cells is controlled by a number of transcription factors, among which CREB is the best characterized. Pro-renin is stored in vesicles, activated to renin, and then released upon demand. The release of renin is under the control of the cAMP (stimulatory) and Ca2+(inhibitory) signaling pathways. Meanwhile, a great number of intrarenally generated or systemically acting factors have been identified that control the renin secretion directly at the level of renin-producing cells, by activating either of the signaling pathways mentioned above. The broad spectrum of biological actions of (pro)renin is mediated by receptors for (pro)renin, angiotensin II and angiotensin-( 1 – 7 ).

Regulation of renin release by local and systemic factors

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is critically involved in the regulation of the salt and volume status of the body and blood pressure. The activity of the RAS is controlled by the protease renin, which is released from the renal juxtaglomerular epithelioid cells into the circulation. Renin release is regulated in negative feedback-loops by blood pressure, salt intake, and angiotensin II. Moreover, sympathetic nerves and renal autacoids such as prostaglandins and nitric oxide stimulate renin secretion. Despite numerous studies there remained substantial gaps in the understanding of the control of renin release at the organ or cellular level. Some of these gaps have been closed in the last years by means of gene-targeted mice and advanced imaging and electrophysiological methods. In our review, we discuss these recent advances together with the relevant previous literature on the regulation of renin release.

Effects of prophylactic fenoldopam infusion on renal blood flow and renal tubular function during acute hypovolemia in anesthetized dogs

OBJECTIVE

It was hypothesized that fenoldopam mesylate, a selective dopamine agonist, may preserve renal perfusion and decrease tubular oxygen consumption during states of hypoperfusion, such as hypovolemic shock. The objective of this study was to quantify the effects of fenoldopam (0.1 microg x kg(-1) x min(-1)) on renal blood flow, urine output, creatinine clearance, and sodium clearance in pentobarbital anesthetized dogs that had undergone partial exsanguination to acutely decrease cardiac output.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, controlled experiment.

SETTING

University-based animal laboratory and research unit.

SUBJECTS

Eight female beagle dogs.

INTERVENTIONS

Arterial blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output, renal blood flow, urine output, creatinine clearance, and fractional excretion of sodium were measured and calculated at four times: a) before infusion of fenoldopam or normal saline; b) during infusion of fenoldopam or normal saline (1 hr); c) during a 90-min period of hypovolemia (induced by acute partial exsanguination), with concurrent infusion of fenoldopam or normal saline; and d) during a 1-hr period after retransfusing the dogs.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Administration of fenoldopam (0.1 microg x kg(-1) x min(-1)) was not associated with hemodynamic instability. Renal blood flow and urine output decreased significantly from baseline (p <.01) during the hypovolemic period in the placebo group (72 +/- 20 to 47 +/- 6 mL/min and 0.26 +/- 0.15 to 0.08 +/- 0.05 mL/min, respectively) but not in the fenoldopam group (75 +/- 14 to 73 +/- 17 mL/min and 0.3 +/- 0.19 to 0.14 +/- 0.05 mL/min, respectively). Creatinine clearance and fractional excretion of sodium decreased significantly from baseline (p <.01) in the placebo group during the hypovolemic period (3.0 +/- 0.4 to 1.8 +/- 0.8 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1) and 1.7% +/- 0.9% to 0.4% +/- 0.2%, respectively) but not in the dogs that received fenoldopam (3.0 +/- 1.0 to 2.9 +/- 0.5 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1) and 1.9% +/- 1.1% to 1.7% +/- 2.7%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Fenoldopam ablated the tubular prerenal response to profound hypovolemia and maintained renal blood flow, glomerular filtration rate, and natriuresis without causing hypotension. This suggests that fenoldopam may have a renoprotective effect in acute ischemic injury.

Renal dopaminergic mechanisms and hypertension: a chronology of advances

Dopamine (DA) has been shown to influence kidney function through endogenous synthesis and subsequent interaction with locally expressed dopamine receptor subtypes (D1, D5 as D1-like and D2, D3, and D4 as D2-like). DA, and DA-receptor specific agonists and antagonists can alter renal water and electrolyte excretion along with renin release when infused systemically or intrarenally. Such effects are brought about by a combination of renal hemodynamic and direct tubular effects evoked along the full length of the nephron. The cellular mechanisms that direct these dopamine-mediated renal electrolyte fluxes have recently been clarified and include alterations in adenylyl cyclase, phospholipase C, and phospholipase A1 activity. The dopaminergic system also interacts directly with the renal kallikrein-kinin, prostaglandin and other neurohumoral systems. Aberrant renal dopamine production and/or dopamine receptor function have been reported in salt-dependent and low-renin forms of human primary hypertension as well as in genetic models of animal hypertension, including the SHR and Dahl SS rat. DA D1 or D3 receptor knockout mice have been shown to develop hypertension.

Dopamine D1A receptors and renin release in rat juxtaglomerular cells

Two dopamine D1-like receptors have been cloned from mammals, the D1 and D5 receptors, also known as D1A and D1B receptors, respectively, in rodents. Although D1-like receptors are known to stimulate renin release, the receptor subtype mediating this action has not been determined. We investigated D1 receptor subtype expression in rat juxtaglomerular cells obtained after enzymatic dispersion of kidney cortex and differential centrifugation. Juxtaglomerular cells in primary culture were immunocytochemically 85% to 95% renin positive. These cells expressed the D1A but not the D1B receptor (mRNA and protein). D1-like receptor function was demonstrated by a concentration-dependent stimulation of cAMP production by dopamine (n = 5-9 per group). Fenoldopam, a D1-like receptor agonist, also caused a concentration-dependent increase in cAMP production and renin secretion that was blocked by the selective D1-like receptor antagonist SCH23390 (n = 4-13 per group). Although the D1 ligands do not distinguish between the cloned D1-like receptors, the actions of fenoldopam were due to occupancy of the D1A receptor: (1) the D1B receptor, the only other mammalian D1-like receptor, is not expressed in juxtaglomerular cells; (2) antisense but not sense D1A oligonucleotides completely blocked the stimulatory effect of fenoldopam on cAMP production and renin secretion. We conclude that there is selective dopamine receptor gene expression in juxtaglomerular cells; the dopamine receptor subtype linked to the stimulation of cAMP and renin secretion in juxtaglomerular cells is the D1A subtype.

Dopamine D3 receptors in rat juxtaglomerular cells

D2-like receptors in the kidney have been suggested to be important in the regulation of renin release but the D2-like subtype(s) expressed in juxtaglomerular (JG) cells is not known. Therefore, we determined which of the D2-like family of dopamine receptors is located in primary cultures of rat juxtaglomerular (JG) cells. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) identified D3 and D4 but not D2Long mRNA in JG cells (n = 3). D3 receptor function was demonstrated by a concentration-dependent inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP production by LY-171555 (a non-selective D2-like receptor agonist) and PD-128593 (a partially selective D3 agonist) (n = 3-7/group). The stimulatory action of LY-171555 and PD-128593 we blocked by the non-selective D2-like antagonist YM-09151. We conclude that D3 and D4 dopamine receptor subtypes are expressed in JG cells; the receptor subtype linked to the inhibition of cAMP in JG cells remains to be established.

Evidence that specific dopamine-1 receptor activation is involved in dopamine-induced renin release

Direct effects of dopamine on renin release were examined using static incubations and perifusions of rat renal cortical slices. Dopamine (10(-5)M) significantly stimulated renin release compared with control. To determine which receptors are involved in dopamine-elicited renin release, studies were performed with specific dopamine-1 and dopamine-2 receptor agonists and antagonists, as well as with alpha- and beta-adrenergic antagonists. Fenoldopam, a dopamine-1 receptor agonist, dose dependently stimulated renin secretion both in static incubations and perifusions; whereas quinpirole (10(-7)-10(-5)M), a dopamine-2 receptor agonist, was ineffective. Phentolamine (10(-4)M), an alpha-adrenergic antagonist, did not alter dopamine- or fenoldopam-induced renin release. Similarly, propranolol, a beta-blocker, did not interfere with the renin stimulation of dopamine (10(-5)M) or fenoldopam (10(-6)M) incubations or perifusion experiments; whereas propranolol significantly blocked isoproterenol action. SCH 23390 (10(-5)M), a specific dopamine-1 antagonist, blocked dopamine- and fenoldopam-induced renin. In contrast, pimozide, a dopamine-2 receptor antagonist, was ineffective. These studies indicate that dopamine is a direct renin secretogogue, and its effects seem to be mediated by specific dopamine-1 receptor activation, as neither alpha- nor beta-adrenergic blockers nor dopamine-2 receptor antagonists altered dopamine actions. The results suggest that dopamine produced locally in the kidney may stimulate renin secretion directly by dopamine-1 receptor activation.

Comparison of resting and stimulus-evoked catecholamine release from the femoral and renal vascular beds of the dog

Plasma levels of dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA) were measured in arterial and in femoral and renal venous blood of chloralose-anaesthetised dogs at rest, and during electrical stimulation of the femoral and renal sympathetic nerve supplies. In the femoral bed, sympathetic nerve stimulation elevated venous efflux of NA, but did not reproducibly elevate DA efflux: when this was increased, it comprised less than 1% of the stimulus-evoked catecholamine efflux. By contrast, renal nerve stimulation liberated both NA and DA from the kidney, and DA comprised about 8% of the total stimulus-evoked efflux. Comparison of efflux from intact and denervated kidneys indicated substantial neurogenic release of both NA and DA at rest, with DA comprising 20% of this efflux. The results extend previous evidence for dopaminergic sympathetic innervation of the dog kidney, and suggest that both dopaminergic and noradrenergic renal nerves are tonically active in anaesthetised animals.

Cardiovascular and renal profile of acute peripheral dopamine1-receptor agonism with fenoldopam

Whether the dopaminergic system may be involved in essential hypertension is of pathogenetic as well as therapeutic interest. Therefore, we investigated in eight hypertensive and 12 normal subjects cardiovascular, endocrine, and renal responses to fenoldopam, which has been characterized experimentally as an agonist of peripheral postsynaptic dopamine1 receptors. A single oral dose of fenoldopam, 100 mg, changed blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive subjects (from 163/103 to 147/76 mm Hg; p less than 0.01 for systolic and p less than 0.001 for diastolic BP) and normal subjects (from 121/81 to 123/65 mm Hg; p less than 0.001 for diastolic BP); percentage decreases in diastolic BP averaged -20 +/- 6 and -16 +/- 7%, respectively. Fenoldopam-induced effects on other variables were similar in the two groups. Heart rate rose (p less than 0.001) on average from 69 to 92 beats/min in hypertensive and from 64 to 84 beats/min in normal subjects. Effective renal plasma flow increased (from 552 to 765 and 634 to 937 ml/min/1.73 m2; p less than 0.01), while glomerular filtration rate tended to decrease (from 121 to 99 ml/min/1.73 m2 in the hypertensive and from 119 to 97 ml/min/1.73 m2; p less than 0.001 in the normal group). Fractional sodium clearance was elevated (from 2.8 to 5.2 and 1.7 to 3.8%; p less than 0.01), as was free water clearance (from -1.7 to 0.6 and -1.7 to 0.1 ml/min/1.73 m2; p less than 0.01). Potassium clearance was largely unchanged. Plasma renin activity increased about twofold (p less than 0.01 in normal subjects), and plasma aldosterone by 40% (NS). Plasma norepinephrine levels increased twofold to 2.5-fold (p less than 0.001), and urinary norepinephrine excretion fivefold to 10-fold (p less than 0.01). Fenoldopam-induced changes were not significantly modified by intravenous and/or oral pretreatment with the dopamine-receptor antagonist metoclopramide or the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin. These findings suggest that in humans, fenoldopam may acutely override the dopaminergic antagonism of metoclopramide given in clinical dosage and that its cardiovascular and renal effects are not prostaglandin-mediated. Although acute sympathetic stimulation may be partially antagonistic, the concomitant BP-lowering, renal vasodilating, and natriuretic actions of fenoldopam represent a desirable profile of a potential antihypertensive agent.

Responses of in vivo renal microvessels to dopamine

The split hydronephrotic kidney preparation was used to directly observe the effects of locally applied dopamine on the in vivo diameters of renal vessels. Dopamine (1 X 10(-6) to 3 X 10(-5) M) produced a concentration-dependent dilation of the arcuate and interlobular arteries and afferent arterioles. Efferent arterioles near the glomeruli also dilated to dopamine but the dilation was less than that of the preglomerular vessels. Higher dopamine concentrations (3 X 10(-4) and 1 X 10(-3) M) produced more variable effects, with a tendency for the arcuate and interlobular arteries and the afferent and efferent arterioles away from the glomeruli to decrease in diameter. After pretreatment with haloperidol, dopamine (1 X 10(-6) to 1 X 10(-4) M) did not dilate any pre- or postglomerular vascular segment, but the tendency for pre- and postglomerular constrictions with higher dopamine concentrations were not abolished. Pretreatment with phentolamine and propranolol enhanced the dilator response of the pre- and postglomerular vessels (except the afferent arterioles near glomeruli and efferent arterioles near welling points) to dopamine (3 X 10(-5) and 1 X 10(-4) M), and abolished the reductions in diameter produced by the high dopamine levels. These data indicate that the dilator effect of dopamine is mediated by interactions with specific dopaminergic receptors, while alpha and beta adrenergic receptors appear to mediate a constrictor influence observed with high dopamine concentrations. The overall effect of dopamine on the renal vessel diameters thus appears to depend on the balance of dilator and constrictor stimuli mediated by multiple receptors.

Domperidone treatment in man inhibits the fall in plasma renin activity induced by intravenous gamma-L-glutamyl-L-dopa

The dopamine pro-drug gamma-L-glutamyl-L-dopa (gludopa) was administered intravenously to six normal subjects at a dose of 12.5 micrograms min-1 kg-1, either with or without the dopamine antagonist domperidone. A control was provided by the intravenous infusion of domperidone and saline on a separate occasion. Intravenous gludopa produced a significant natriuresis, whether administered alone or in combination with domperidone. After gludopa infusion, there was a significant fall in plasma renin activity, an effect which was attenuated significantly by concomitant treatment with domperidone. These observations suggest that blockade of renal DA2 dopamine receptors has little or no effect on gludopa-induced natriuresis, but that at least part of the dopaminergic inhibition of renin release is mediated by renal DA2 receptors.

Renal effects of SK&F 82526 in anesthetized rats

Dopamine affects renal hemodynamics, renal tubular functions, and the secretion of renin. We have studied the renal effects of SK&F 82526 (an agonist which is selective for the DA1 subclass of dopamine receptors) in anesthetized rats. Infused intravenously at 0.005 mumol/min/kg, this drug increased renal plasma flow and the clearances of PAH and insulin, effects which are consistent with decreased renovascular resistance. Concomitantly, urine flow and K excretion increased, and Na excretion tended to increase. All these effects of SK&F 82526 were antagonized by intravenous metoclopramide (1 mumol/min/kg). Despite its diuretic effect and despite its lack of effect on arterial blood pressure, SK&F 82526 increased arterial plasma renin concentration, suggesting a stimulatory effect on renin secretory rate. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the renal effects of SK&F 82526 mimic those of dopamine.

Dissociation between renal prostaglandin E2 and renin release. Effects of glucagon, dopamine and cyclic AMP in dogs

To examine the relationship between prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and renin release, glucagon, dopamine and dibutyryl cyclic AMP (DB-cAMP) were infused into dog kidneys during autoregulatory dilation of preglomerular vessels. Autoregulatory vasodilation, which enhances PGE2 and renin release, was induced by renal arterial constriction or ureteral occlusion. Glucagon infusion increased both PGE2 and renin release during autoregulatory vasodilation, and renin release was almost abolished after inhibiting PGE2 release by indomethacin. In contrast, dopamine and DB-cAMP infused during autoregulatory vasodilation increased renin release without significantly changing PGE2 release. Stimulation of renin release was not dependent on vasodilatory effects, which for all drugs were greatly diminished during autoregulatory vasodilation. Hence, glucagon stimulates both PGE2 and renin release. Most of the increase in renin release during glucagon infusion is prostaglandin-dependent since indomethacin greatly reduced the stimulatory effect. In contrast, dopamine and DB-cAMP stimulate renin release without increasing PGE2 release as previously found for beta-adrenergic stimulation.

Effects of dopamine on renal function in the rat isolated perfused kidney

The renal effects of dopamine, the dopamine antagonist spiperone and the combination of dopamine and spiperone were examined in the isolated perfused rat kidney preparation. Studies were carried out at constant perfusion pressure and the following were measured at 10 min intervals for 1 h: perfusate flow; GFR (3H-inulin); urine flow rate; sodium, potassium and kallikrein excretion; perfusate renin concentration; perfusate and urinary-dopamine levels. Low-dose dopamine infusion (6 X 10(-10) mol/min) resulted in significant diuresis, natriuresis and kaluresis but little change in GFR. These effects were blocked by spiperone (10(-10) mol/min) which had no significant effects when infused alone. At a higher dose (10(-8) mol/min) dopamine significantly increased urine flow alone; this too was reversed by spiperone. Dopamine had no significant effects on perfusate flow, renin release or kallikrein excretion. Perfused control kidneys excreted amounts of dopamine (328 pmol/h, s.e.m. = 57, n = 6) far in excess of kidney dopamine content (49 pmol/g, s.e.m. = 6, n = 32). Renal handling of infused dopamine was dose-related; the fraction of the administered dose taken up and/or metabolized by the kidney on the higher dose infusion was considerably less than on the lower dose (40%, s.e.m. = 3 vs. 82%, s.e.m. = 6) while more was excreted (13%, s.e.m. = 3 vs. 2%, s.e.m. = 1). These studies indicate that dopamine at low doses can produce diuresis, natriuresis and kaluresis independently of extrarenal or haemodynamic influences and not mediated by renal renin or kallikrein systems. The kidney also exhibits a saturable capacity for dopamine uptake and/or metabolism.

The effect of dopamine administration on the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in sick preterm infants

Nine premature infants with birth weight of 1150 to 2500 g and gestational age of 28 to 35 weeks were given dopamine in a dose of 2-4 micrograms/kg/min to treat cardiopulmonary distress. In addition to monitoring of blood gases, blood pressure, acid-base balance, urine flow and urinary sodium excretion, plasma renin activity (PRA) and plasma aldosterone concentration (PA) was also determined prior to and during dopamine therapy. The dopamine-induced increase in urine flow and urinary sodium excretion was associated with a significant increase of PRA from 18.2 +/- 5.1 ng/ml/h to 33.0 +/- 5.6 ng/ml/h (P less than 0.025), while PA and blood pressure remained unaltered by dopamine administration. It is suggested that the angiotensin II-stimulated aldosterone production is overridden by the inhibitory effect of dopamine.

The effect of oral fenoldopam (SKF 82526-J), a peripheral dopamine receptor agonist, on blood pressure and renal function in normal man

The effect of a single oral dose of 100 mg of fenoldopam on renal function and blood pressure was investigated in seven healthy male subjects in a double-blind placebo controlled study. Mean diastolic blood pressure fell by 10 mm Hg, 45 min after oral dosing and then gradually returned to baseline values. There was an increase in pulse rate and a delayed rise in systolic blood pressure. Measured from 30 to 120 min after drug ingestion, mean effective renal plasma flow increased to 158% of the value observed after placebo; mean glomerular filtration rate rose to 109% of the placebo value. Measured from 120 to 210 min after administration of the drug, effective renal plasma flow and glomerular filtration rate had returned to baseline values. Fenoldopam produced a small increase in the mean sodium excretion rate which was not significantly different from the fall after placebo. No change was detected in urine flow or potassium excretion rate. Mean plasma renin activity increased three-fold 1 h after oral dosing. Plasma aldosterone did not show a parallel increase although the plasma concentration at 1 h was significantly higher than after placebo. The results show a pronounced renal vasodilator effect lasting about 2 h. The findings are consistent with marked DA1 receptor agonist activity.

Choroid plexus blood flow: evidence for dopaminergic influence

Choroid plexus blood flow was measured in adult female sheep using the radioactive microsphere technique. The response of choroid plexus, renal and cortical blood flow to the infusion of dopamine (11 sheep), haloperidol (7 sheep) and propranolol (6 sheep) were compared. Choroid plexus and renal blood flow significantly increased after dopamine infusion (55% and 49% respectively). Choroid plexus and renal blood flow decreased significantly following haloperidol infusion (-24% and 29% respectively). Cortical blood flow did not significantly change. Propranolol infusion did not significantly change blood flow in these regions. These observations suggest that dopaminergic mechanisms play a role in the regulation of choroid plexus as well as renal blood flow.

Differentiation of noradrenergic and dopaminergic nerves in the rat kidney: evidence against significant dopaminergic innervation

In the rat kidney catecholaminergic nerve elements were identified by fluorescence histochemistry in perivascular plexuses around corticula arteries and juxtaglomerular arterioles and in medullary vascular bundles. Fluorescence was abolished in all areas 24 h after treatment with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA; 150 mg/kg i.v.). Protection of noradrenergic endings from destruction by 6-OHDA was afforded by pretreatment with desipramine (DMI; 25 mg/kg i.p.) which restored fluorescence towards control levels. By semiquantitative analysis fluorescence was identical in juxtaglomerular regions but slightly reduced around larger vessels in (DMI + 6-OHDA)-treated rats when compared to controls. Changes in tissue noradrenaline content, but not dopamine content, paralleled the changes in nerve fluorescence. Noradrenaline content was 4.10 pmol/mg protein (s.e.m. = 0.22, n = 32) in controls and was reduced by 90% to 0.40 pmol/mg (s.e.m. = 0.05, n = 23) in 6-OHDA-treated and by 26% to 3.01 pmol/mg (s.e.m. = 0.21, n = 23) in (DMI + 6-OHDA)-treated rats. Kidney dopamine content was 0.38 pmol/mg protein (s.e.m. = 0.05, n = 32) in controls and was reduced by 55% to 0.18 pmol/mg (s.e.m. = 0.02, n = 17) in 6-OHDA-treated and by 53% to 0.17 pmol/mg (s.e.m. = 0.02, n = 23) in (DMI + 6-OHDA)-treated rats. The renin response to haemorrhage was examined in pentobarbitone sodium-anaesthetized rats as a test of functional integrity of renal nerves in the three groups. Progressive 1 ml haemorrhages (to total blood loss of 4 ml, 1.3% body weight) resulted in similar increases in plasma renin activity in controls and (DMI + 6-OHDA)-treated animals but the response was significantly attenuated in 6-OHDA-treated rats. Renal catecholaminergic nerves appear to be predominantly noradrenergic. It is doubtful if a significant intrarenal dopaminergic system exists in the rat.

Cardiovascular dopamine receptors: physiological, pharmacological and therapeutic implications

Dopamine receptor activation can lead to pronounced changes in cardiovascular function. The myriad of effects produced by dopamine receptor agonists results from the activation of dopamine receptors located at different anatomical sites in the cardiovascular system. Further basic research is required to better characterize these dopamine receptors so as to allow the development of more specific dopamine receptor agonists. Endogenous dopamine may be involved in the physiological control of fluid and electrolyte balance and continuing research efforts in this area should provide for a better understanding of the role of cardiovascular dopamine receptors in the maintenance of overall circulatory homeostasis. Cardiovascular dopamine receptor stimulation represents an important and promising approach for the development of novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, congestive heart failure and acute renal failure.

Endogenous dopamine synthesis and dopa-decarboxylase activity in rat renal cortex

The dopamine content of either cortical slices or isolated glomeruli prepared from rat kidneys and of their incubation medium was measured at different times both under basal conditions and in the presence of L-DOPA. Production of dopamine from L-DOPA by purified cytosolic proteins of the whole cortex was also measured. Dopamine synthesized by these 3 renal preparations accumulated linearly with time over 60 min. Dopamine produced by the glomeruli was more rapidly released into the incubation medium than that produced by the cortical slices. The dopamine synthetic rate was very low in the absence of L-DOPA but increased rapidly when L-DOPA was added to the incubation medium. No plateau was reached in the range of concentrations studied (0-100 microM) when cortical slices or cytosolic proteins were studied whereas dopamine production by isolated glomeruli reached an equilibrium above 10 microM L-DOPA. Dopamine synthesis in the presence of 100 microM L-DOPA was linearly related to the amount of renal protein. The synthetic rates were 43, 2.2 and 0.2 nmoles . h-1 . mg -1 for the cytosolic proteins, the cortical slices and the isolated glomeruli respectively. Dopamine synthesis by the cortical slices in the presence of 100 microM L-DOPA was progressively inhibited by increasing concentrations of alpha-methyl-DOPA. Cortical slices prepared from rats treated by benserazide, an inhibitor of L-DOPA decarboxylase, synthesized much less dopamine than those from control rats. These results show that rat renal cortex deprived of neuronal supply can synthesize dopamine in vitro from extracellular L-DOPA.

Urine dopamine in normal and hypertensive pregnancies

Dopamine output in urine was determined in two groups of women with hypertension in pregnancy. A highly significant elevation of urine dopamine was detected in those women with pre-eclampsia compared with that in matched control subjects. In contrast, no difference in urine dopamine output was detected between a group of multigravidae with hypertension in pregnancy and matched control subjects.

Studies on the responses of plasma renin activity and aldosterone and cortisol levels to dopaminergic and opiate stimuli in man

Evidence for a role of dopamine and endogenous opioids in the control of the secretion of renin and adrenal steroids was sought in man. The effects of L-dopa, L-dopa plus carbidopa, dopamine, domperidone and naloxone were studied on the renin and aldosterone responses to head-up tilt. L-dopa diminished the rise in renin following tilt and this effect of L-dopa was abolished by carbidopa. Aldosterone was not significantly affected by any of the compounds. Cortisol secretion was stimulated by carbidopa plus L-dopa more than L-dopa alone, and was also increased by both dopamine and naloxone. The significance of these findings is discussed.

Increased renal neuroleptic binding in spontaneously hypertensive rats

The present experiments demonstrate high affinity stereospecific binding of the dopaminergic ligand [3H]spiroperidol to rat renal membranes. The binding was saturable, regionally distributed, and showed the same specificity as the caudate [3H]spiroperidol site for displacement by dopaminergic antagonists. Since there is an association between hypertension and abnormalities of renal blood flow, which appears to be regulated in part by dopamine, [3H]spiroperidol binding was measured in kidneys of spontaneously hypertensive rats. In two independent experiments renal cortical [3H]spiroperidol stereospecific binding was increased in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

Dopamine-induced diuresis in the cat without changes in renal hemodynamics

The effects of intravenous (i.v.) and intraarterial (i.a.) injection and infusion of dopamine (DA) on renal hemodynamics, regional sympathetic activity and kidney function were investigated in anaesthetized cats. In response to the i.v. bolus injection of DA (25 microgram/kg), mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) was increased by 19.7%, renal blood flow (RBF) by 16.6%, and regional sympathetic discharges were inhibited. The principal effect of i.a. bolus injection of DA into the renal artery was vasoconstriction. Vasodilation was observed neither after lower doses of DA nor after pretreatment with phenoxybenzamine. During continuous i.v. infusion of 10 microgram DA kg-1 min-1 MABP, RBF, renal sympathetic discharges and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) did not change, whereas urine volume was increased by 120.5%, sodium excretion by 99.7%, chloride excretion by 143.2%, and potassium excretion by 31.9%. Urine osmolality was decreased and osmolal clearance increased. Raising the DA dose to 25 microgram kg-1 min-1 resulted in a fall of GFR, but the diuretic response was not significantly different from that of the low dose. Bulbocapnine (6 mg/kg i.v.) antagonized the DA-induced diuresis. In conclusion, the diuretic effect of DA in the cat is not dependent on a change in RBF, GFR or renal sympathetic activity. This suggests that a tubular site of action is primarily responsible for DA diuresis.

The effects of dopamine on renin release in the isolated perfused rat kidney

In the isolated and perfused kidney of the rat, the stimulant effect of dopamine on renin release is blocked by propranolol and not by haloperidol. This suggests that the release of renin induced by dopamine is due to the activation of beta-receptors.

Histofluorescence techniques provide evidence for dopamine-containing neuronal elements in canine kidney

Changes induced by hydrochloric acid in the excitation spectrum of catecholamine fluorophores associated with the innervation of the canine renal vasculature show that there are neuronal elements at the glomerular vascular poles containing predominantly dopamine. In contrast, the catecholamine fluorescence in the periadventitial layer of the arcuate arteries is derived from norepinephrine. The dopamine-containing structures may represent the prejunctional counterpart to the pharmacologically identified dopamine receptors in the renal vasculature. As such, this system may be involved in the normal regulation of renal blood flow and renin release.

Effects of apomorphine and of pimozide on renin secretion in the anaesthetized dog

This paper presents the results of a study of the receptors involved in renin hypersecretion induced by dopamine. Apomorphine induces renin hypersecretion without significantly modifying the renal blood flow. This renin hypersecretion is inhibited by haloperidol. However, pimozide, a selective dopaminolytic agent, is incapable of inhibiting the renin hypersecretion induced by dopamine. These results provide supplementary evidence for the existence of renal dopaminergic receptors which would appear to differ from the central dopaminergic receptors.