Functional characterization of the alpha adrenergic receptor modulating the hydroosmotic effect of vasopressin on the rabbit cortical collecting tubule

"ADPKD-omics": determinants of cyclic AMP levels in renal epithelial cells

The regulation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels in kidney epithelial cells is important in at least 2 groups of disorders, namely water balance disorders and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Focusing on the latter, we review genes that code for proteins that are determinants of cAMP levels in cells. We identify which of these determinants are expressed in the 14 kidney tubule segments using recently published RNA-sequencing and protein mass spectrometry data ("autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease-omics"). This includes G protein-coupled receptors, adenylyl cyclases, cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases, cAMP transporters, cAMP-binding proteins, regulator of G protein-signaling proteins, G protein-coupled receptor kinases, arrestins, calcium transporters, and calcium-binding proteins. In addition, compartmentalized cAMP signaling in the primary cilium is discussed, and a specialized database of the proteome of the primary cilium of cultured "IMCD3" cells is provided as an online resource (https://esbl.nhlbi.nih.gov/Databases/CiliumProteome/). Overall, this article provides a general resource in the form of a curated list of proteins likely to play roles in determination of cAMP levels in kidney epithelial cells and, therefore, likely to be determinants of progression of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.

Chronic Exercise Protects against the Progression of Renal Cyst Growth and Dysfunction in Rats with Polycystic Kidney Disease

Introduction

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the progressive enlargement of renal epithelial cysts and renal dysfunction. Previous studies have reported the beneficial effects of chronic exercise on chronic kidney disease. However, the effects of chronic exercise have not been fully examined in PKD patients or models. The effects of chronic exercise on the progression of PKD were investigated in a polycystic kidney (PCK) rat model.

Methods

Six-week-old male PCK rats were divided into a sedentary group and an exercise group. The exercise group underwent forced treadmill exercise for 12 wk (28 m·min⁻¹, 60 min·d⁻¹, 5 d·wk⁻¹). After 12 wk, renal function and histology were examined, and signaling cascades of PKD progression, including arginine vasopressin (AVP), were investigated.

Results

Chronic exercise reduced the excretion of urinary protein, liver-type fatty acid–binding protein, plasma creatinine, urea nitrogen, and increased plasma irisin and urinary AVP excretion. Chronic exercise also slowed renal cyst growth, glomerular damage, and interstitial fibrosis and led to reduced Ki-67 expression. Chronic exercise had no effect on cAMP content but decreased the renal expression of B-Raf and reduced the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and S6.

Conclusion

Chronic exercise slows renal cyst growth and damage in PCK rats, despite increasing AVP, with the downregulation of the cAMP/B-Raf/ERK and mTOR/S6 pathways in the kidney of PCK rats.

Landscape of GPCR expression along the mouse nephron

Kidney transport and other renal functions are regulated by multiple G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) expressed along the renal tubule. The rapid, recent appearance of comprehensive unbiased gene expression data in the various renal tubule segments, chiefly RNA sequencing and protein mass spectrometry data, has provided a means of identifying patterns of GPCR expression along the renal tubule. To allow for comprehensive mapping, we first curated a comprehensive list of GPCRs in the genomes of mice, rats, and humans (https://hpcwebapps.cit.nih.gov/ESBL/Database/GPCRs/) using multiple online data sources. We used this list to mine segment-specific and cell type-specific expression data from RNA-sequencing studies in microdissected mouse tubule segments to identify GPCRs that are selectively expressed in discrete tubule segments. Comparisons of these mapped mouse GPCRs with other omics datasets as well as functional data from isolated perfused tubule and micropuncture studies confirmed patterns of expression for well-known receptors and identified poorly studied GPCRs that are likely to play roles in the regulation of renal tubule function. Thus, we provide data resources for GPCR expression across the renal tubule, highlighting both well-known GPCRs and understudied receptors to provide guidance for future studies.

Role of α2-Adrenoceptors in Hypertension: Focus on Renal Sympathetic Neurotransmitter Release, Inflammation, and Sodium Homeostasis

The kidney is extensively innervated by sympathetic nerves playing an important role in the regulation of blood pressure homeostasis. Sympathetic nerve activity is ultimately controlled by the central nervous system (CNS). Norepinephrine, the main sympathetic neurotransmitter, is released at prejunctional neuroeffector junctions in the kidney and modulates renin release, renal vascular resistance, sodium and water handling, and immune cell response. Under physiological conditions, renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) is modulated by peripheral mechanisms such as the renorenal reflex, a complex interaction between efferent sympathetic nerves, central mechanism, and afferent sensory nerves. RSNA is increased in hypertension and, therefore, critical for the perpetuation of hypertension and the development of hypertensive kidney disease. Renal sympathetic neurotransmission is not only regulated by RSNA but also by prejunctional α2-adrenoceptors. Prejunctional α2-adrenoceptors serve as autoreceptors which, when activated by norepinephrine, inhibit the subsequent release of norepinephrine induced by a sympathetic nerve impulse. Deletion of α2-adrenoceptors aggravates hypertension ultimately by modulating renal pressor response and sodium handling. α2-adrenoceptors are also expressed in the vasculature, renal tubules, and immune cells and exert thereby effects related to vascular tone, sodium excretion, and inflammation. In the present review, we highlight the role of α2-adrenoceptors on renal sympathetic neurotransmission and its impact on hypertension. Moreover, we focus on physiological and pathophysiological functions mediated by non-adrenergic α2-adrenoceptors. In detail, we discuss the effects of sympathetic norepinephrine release and α2-adrenoceptor activation on renal sodium transporters, on renal vascular tone, and on immune cells in the context of hypertension and kidney disease.

α2A-Adrenoceptors Modulate Renal Sympathetic Neurotransmission and Protect against Hypertensive Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND

Increased nerve activity causes hypertension and kidney disease. Recent studies suggest that renal denervation reduces BP in patients with hypertension. Renal NE release is regulated by prejunctional α2A-adrenoceptors on sympathetic nerves, and α2A-adrenoceptors act as autoreceptors by binding endogenous NE to inhibit its own release. However, the role of α2A-adrenoceptors in the pathogenesis of hypertensive kidney disease is unknown.

METHODS

We investigated effects of α2A-adrenoceptor-regulated renal NE release on the development of angiotensin II-dependent hypertension and kidney disease. In uninephrectomized wild-type and α2A-adrenoceptor-knockout mice, we induced hypertensive kidney disease by infusing AngII for 28 days.

RESULTS

Urinary NE excretion and BP did not differ between normotensive α2A-adrenoceptor-knockout mice and wild-type mice at baseline. However, NE excretion increased during AngII treatment, with the knockout mice displaying NE levels that were significantly higher than those of wild-type mice. Accordingly, the α2A-adrenoceptor-knockout mice exhibited a systolic BP increase, which was about 40 mm Hg higher than that found in wild-type mice, and more extensive kidney damage. In isolated kidneys, AngII-enhanced renal nerve stimulation induced NE release and pressor responses to a greater extent in kidneys from α2A-adrenoceptor-knockout mice. Activation of specific sodium transporters accompanied the exaggerated hypertensive BP response in α2A-adrenoceptor-deficient kidneys. These effects depend on renal nerves, as demonstrated by reduced severity of AngII-mediated hypertension and improved kidney function observed in α2A-adrenoceptor-knockout mice after renal denervation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings reveal a protective role of prejunctional inhibitory α2A-adrenoceptors in pathophysiologic conditions with an activated renin-angiotensin system, such as hypertensive kidney disease, and support the concept of sympatholytic therapy as a treatment.

Dobutamine inhibits vasopressin-mediated water transport across toad bladder epithelium

This study aimed to investigate the effect of dobutamine on water transport across toad bladder epithelium. Water flow through the membrane was measured gravimetrically in bladder sac preparations. Dobutamine had no effect on basal water transport, but partially inhibited transport stimulated by vasopressin. Similarly, dobutamine exerted no influence on the hydrosmotic response to 8-chlorophenylthio-cAMP, but interfered with the response to phosphodiesterase inhibitor 1-methyl-3-isobutyl-xanthine. These results demonstrate that this catecholamine may inhibit vasopressin-stimulated water transport at a site prior to cAMP formation. The use of propranolol was ineffective in blocking the effect of dobutamine on transport stimulated by vasopressin, indicating that beta-adrenoceptors play no role in this effect. On the other hand, phentolamine significantly reduced the effect of dobutamine, indicating the involvement of alpha-adrenoceptors in such event. Rauwolscine also inhibited the effect of dobutamine, pointing to the specific contribution of the alpha(2)-adrenoceptors to this effect. Taken together, the results of this study demonstrate that dobutamine inhibits vasopressin-stimulated water transport in toad bladders through a mechanism mediated by the stimulation of alpha(2)-adrenoceptors, thus suggesting that such a drug may exert a direct cellular effect on membrane permeability to water in transporting epithelia. The current study may provide a better understanding of the effects of dobutamine on renal function by contributing towards the elucidation of its action mechanism.

Role of adrenergic receptors in the reflex diuresis in rabbits during pulmonary lymphatic obstruction

The role of adrenergic receptors in the reflex diuresis in response to pulmonary lymphatic drainage was examined in anaesthetized, artificially ventilated New Zealand White rabbits. Pulmonary lymphatic drainage was obstructed by raising the pressure in a pouch created from the right external jugular vein. This pulmonary lymphatic obstruction results in a reflex increase in urine flow and sodium excretion. This reflex is abolished by renal denervation and by administration of L-NAME, a non-selective inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. Also, infusion of the relatively selective neuronal nitric oxide synthase blocker, 7-nitroindazole sodium salt, into the renal medulla abolished the reflex diuresis. In this study the effects of adrenergic receptor antagonists on the reflex increase in urine were observed. Both ureters were cannulated in order to determine urine flow from both kidneys separately. Prazosin, an alpha1 adrenergic receptor antagonist, was infused into the renal medulla of the right kidney, while the left kidney acted as control. Administration of prazosin in this manner did not block the reflex diuresis in response to pulmonary lymphatic obstruction in either kidney. However, rauwolscine, an alpha2 adrenergic receptor antagonist, abolished the reflex increase in urine and sodium excretion in the ipsilateral kidney while preserving it in the contralateral kidney. These findings suggest that the increase in urine flow in rabbits caused by pulmonary lymphatic obstruction is dependent upon activation of alpha2 adrenergic receptors within the renal medulla.

Renal nerves and endothelins interaction in the control of renal excretory function in conscious Long-Evans rats

The role of renal nerves and endothelins, acting at ET(A) receptors, in the regulation of renal excretory function was investigated in male Long-Evans rats. Catheters were placed in the femoral vein for fluid and drug infusion, in the femoral artery for blood pressure recording as well as in the bladder for urine collection. Infusion of 16.4 nmol/kg/min of the ET(A) receptor antagonist BQ-123 for 50 min was performed in freely moving, intact and renal denervated rats. As a result of BQ- 123 infusion, urine flow rate diminished (P < 0.02) and Uosm increased (P < 0.05) in the intact rats, but not in the renal denervated rats. Bilateral renal denervation itself as well as ET(A) receptor inhibition in both intact and renal denervated rats did not change the mean arterial pressure, heart rate, or the excretion of sodium, potassium and chloride. The data obtained suggest an interrelationship between renal nerves and endothelin-A receptors in the regulation of renal water excretion.

Chronic activation of central alpha2-adrenoceptors prevents hypertension in DOCA-salt rats

The effects of chronic intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections of the alpha2-adrenoceptor agonist, xylazine, on blood pressure were examined in DOCA-salt rats. Acute studies also examined the renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and renal excretory responses produced by i.c.v. xylazine in rats with established DOCA-salt hypertension. Rats implanted with a chronic i.c.v. cannula for drug injection were used. In chronic studies, four groups were investigated: control rats treated with s.c. soybean oil and i.c.v. saline; DOCA-salt rats (s.c. deoxycorticosterone acetate) receiving i.c.v. saline, xylazine or the alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonist, yohimbine. During vehicle or DOCA-salt treatment, xylazine (0.2 ng/microg) or yohimbine (10O microg/kg) was injected i.c.v. daily (three times). In DOCA-salt rats receiving i.c.v. saline, resting mean arterial pressure (MAP) was elevated on days 15 and 30 (135 +/- 5 and 160 +/- 6 mmHg, respectively). Chronic i.c.v. xylazine significantly attenuated the rise in MAP produced by DOCA-salt (day 15, 118 +/- 5 mmHg; day 30, 121 +/- 4 mmHg). Alternatively, chronic i.c.v. yohimbine shortened the onset (day 15, 152 +/- 7 mmHg) and augmented the hypertension in DOCA-salt rats (0 survival by day 30). In acute studies, i.c.v. xylazine elicited a profound natriuresis and diuresis as well as a reduction in RSNA without altering MAP. This study demonstrates that the ongoing (tonic) activity of central alpha2-adrenoceptor mechanisms are critically involved in regulating blood pressure in the DOCA-salt treated rat. In this manner, an enhanced activity of central alpha2-adrenoceptor systems acts to protect against a rise in blood pressure. In contrast, the attenuation of central alpha2-adrenoceptor stimulation evokes hypertension. The central action of xylazine to prevent hypertension may be associated with the inhibition of sympathetic outflow to the kidneys and evokes an enhanced natriuresis. By inhibiting the avid sodium retention elicited by DOCA-salt treatment, the central activation of alpha2-adrenoceptors delays the onset and the severity of hypertension in this pathological model.

Peripheral and central imidazoline receptor-mediated natriuresis in the rat

On the basis of both radioligand and functional studies, the existence of a novel receptor that was unique from the alpha 2-adrenoceptor has become evident. Our initial studies contrasted the function of I1 imidazoline receptor agonists with that of purported alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonists in the kidney. The mechanism by which urine flow increased (osmolar vs free water clearance) as well as the effects of idazoxan, rauwolscine, a V2 vasopressin receptor antagonist, indomethacin pretreatment, and one-kidney one clip hypertension in rats were different following moxonidine when compared to an alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonist. This indicated two separate receptor systems. Subsequent studies determined that i.c.v. administration of moxonidine would also increase the urine flow rate by increasing osmolar clearance. This response to i.c.v. moxonidine differed from the response of an alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonist administered i.c.v.. Moreover, this effect of i.c.v. moxonidine was unique from that observed following the intrarenal infusion of moxonidine (Fig. 2). Denervation, intravenous prazosin, and i.c.v. idazoxan selectively blocked the effects of i.c.v. moxonidine. Intravenous idazoxan selectively blocked the response to intrarenal infusion of moxonidine. On the basis of the response to i.c.v. moxonidine in SH rats, the site(s) and/or receptor(s) responsible for blood pressure lowering were altered and those for increasing sodium excretion appear to be inactive. The significance of the findings in long-term regulation of blood pressure remain to be determined.

Central alpha2-receptor mechanisms contribute to enhanced renal responses during ketamine-xylazine anesthesia

We have recently developed an experimental approach to study central opioid control of renal function in anesthetized rats. This model system uses the intravenous infusion of the alpha2-agonist xylazine to enhance basal levels of urine flow rate and urinary sodium excretion in ketamine-anesthetized rats. This study examined the contribution of central and peripheral alpha2-adrenergic receptor mechanisms in mediating the enhanced renal excretory responses produced by xylazine. In ketamine-anesthetized rats, the enhanced levels of urine flow rate and urinary sodium excretion produced by the intravenous infusion of xylazine were reversed by the intravenous bolus injection of the alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonist yohimbine but not by the alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonist terazosin. In separate animals the intracerebroventricular administration of yohimbine only reduced urine flow rate by approximately 50% but did not alter urinary sodium excretion. The decrease in urine flow rate produced by intracerebroventricular yohimbine was reversed by the intravenous injection of a selective V2-vasopressin receptor antagonist. In a separate group of ketamine- and xylazine-anesthetized rats, the bilateral microinjection of yohimbine into the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) also significantly decreased urine flow rate by 54% without altering urinary sodium excretion. The microinjection of the beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol into the PVN did not alter either renal excretory parameter. These results suggest that during intravenous infusion, xylazine increases urine flow rate by activating alpha2-adrenergic receptors in the PVN, which in turn decrease vasopressin release. The ability of alpha-adrenergic mechanisms in the PVN to selectively influence the renal handling of water, but not sodium, may contribute to the reported dissociation of the natriuretic and diuretic responses of alpha2-adrenoceptor agonists.

Regulation of cell cyclic AMP in medullary thick ascending limb of Henle in a rat model of chronic renal failure

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is accompanied by adaptive changes in electrolyte reabsorption in the thick ascending limb of Henle of surviving nephrons. To study the cellular mechanism of this adaptation, we measured intracellular cAMP in micro-dissected medullary thick ascending limb (mTAL) segments in rats with CRF. mTAL exhibited in CRF an increase of basal cAMP from 25.6 +/- 10.0 in controls to 65.8 +/- 11.3 fmol mm-1 tubule in CRF (P < 0.05). Vasopressin and calcitonin stimulated mTAL adenylate-cyclase in a dose-dependent manner in controls but failed to stimulate in CRF. Likewise, maximal stimulation with 10(-3) M 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) plus 10(-5) M forskolin increased cAMP in controls to 63.0 +/- 16.0 but not in CRF, where maximal stimulated values remained at 63.1 +/- 18.8 fmol mm-1 tubule (P NS). Alpha2-adrenoreceptor activation with clonidine at concentrations ranging from 10(-8) to 10(-6) M diminished cAMP production by 37% in CRF (P < 0.05), whereas no differences were found in controls. Thus, the basal intracellular cAMP is increased in rat mTAL in CRF. The finding that neither forskolin nor vasopressin were able to further augment intracellular cAMP would suggest that stimulatory pathways of the adenylate-cyclase system are activated in the basal state. However, mTAL cells in CRF seem to retain the response of normal epithelium to inhibitory pathways such as the one mediated by alpha2-adrenoreceptors.

Expression of multiple alpha-adrenoceptor isoforms in rat CCD

In the rat cortical collecting duct (CCD), epinephrine inhibits vasopressin (AVP)-dependent water permeability and Na+ reabsorption. Although inhibition is reversed by the alpha2-adrenoceptor (AR) antagonist yohimbine, suggesting the epinephrine effect is primarily mediated by an alpha2-AR [C. T. Hawk, L. H. Kudo, A. J. Rouch, and J. A. Schafer. Am. J. Physiol. 265 (Renal Fluid Electrolyte Physiol. 34): F449-F460, 1993], there are also suggestions of an effect at an additional receptor, perhaps an alpha1-AR. For the present experiments, we used RT-PCR of total RNA extracted from 1 to 5 mm of microdissected CCDs from rat kidney to identify the alpha-AR isoforms expressed. Specific primers for the alpha2-ARs amplifying from the 6th transmembrane (TM) to the 3'-untranslated regions, revealed the presence of alpha2A and alpha2B. Western blot analysis also indicated the presence of alpha2B-AR at the protein level. Degenerate alpha1-AR primers that amplify from conserved regions of TM-1 to TM-5, as well as specific primers that amplify either the same region (alpha1B), the carboxy terminus (alpha1A), or within the third cytoplasmic loop (alpha1D), indicated the presence of all three alpha1-ARs. Measurement of transepithelial voltage in isolated perfused renal tubules indicated a small inhibitory effect mediated by alpha1-ARs. Although the functional effects of epinephrine on AVP-dependent transport processes appear to be mediated predominantly by an alpha2-AR, a small contribution to the overall alpha-AR effect may be due to simultaneous activation of an alpha1-AR.

Indomethacin and staurosporine reverse alpha 2 inhibition of water transport in rat IMCD

These studies were conducted to determine if the prostaglandin-synthesis inhibitor indomethacin or the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor staurosporine affect the inhibition of osmotic water permeability (Pf) by the alpha-2 (alpha 2) agonist dexmedetomidine in the rat inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD). Terminal IMCDs from Wistar rats were perfused and Pf was increased with either 220 pM arginine vasopressin (AVP) or 0.1 mM 8-chlorophenylthio cyclic adenosine monophosphate (8CPTcAMP). All agents were added to the bathing solution. Dexmedetomidine at 100 nM inhibited both AVP- and 8CPTcAMP-stimulated Pf. When Pf was increased by AVP, indomethacin at 0.1 mM or 5 microM reversed the dexmedetomidine-induced inhibition by 68% and 43%, respectively. When Pf was increased by 8CPTcAMP, indomethacin at 0.1 mM or 5 microM reversed inhibition by 83% and 70%, respectively. Indomethacin increased AVP and 8CPTcAMP-stimulated Pf by 20 to 30% and dexmedetomidine inhibited the AVP+ indomethacin-stimulated Pf. Staurosporine at 10 nM yielded similar results. Results suggest that PKC and prostaglandins are involved in the alpha 2 mediated mechanism, and staurosporine and indomethacin-sensitive cellular mediators modulate basal Pf.

Clonidine, but not bradykinin or ANP, inhibits Na+ and water transport in Dahl SS rat CCD

We examined the actions of potentially natriuretic autacoids in the isolated perfused cortical collecting duct (CCD) dissected from inbred Dahl (Rapp strain) salt-sensitive rats (SS). Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP, 10 nM), bradykinin (BK, 10 nM), and clonidine (1 microM) were studied to determine their effects on the lumen-to-bath flux of 22Na+ (J1-->b, pmol min-1 mm-1), hydraulic conductivity (Pf, micron/s), and transepithelial voltage (VT, mV). ANP and BK have been shown by others to significantly reduce net Na+ reabsorption and hydraulic conductivity in the Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat CCD, but previous results from our laboratory showed no ANP or BK effect in the SD CCD. In the present study, we were also unable to observe any effect of either ANP or BK in the SS rat CCD. However, in the presence of AVP, clonidine (a partial alpha 2-adrenergic receptor agonist) significantly reduced J1-->b and Pf from 139 +/- 6 (SEM) to 88 +/- 7 and from 959 +/- 176 to 490 +/- 73, respectively. In addition, clonidine significantly depolarized VT from -14.5 +/- 2.8 to -11.2 +/- 1.8. However, unlike its effects in the SD rat CCD, yohimbine (300 nM, an alpha 2-adrenergic receptor antagonist) did not significantly reverse the effects of clonidine on J1-->b, Pf or VT in the SS rat CCD.

Cardiovascular pharmacology of adrenergic and dopaminergic receptors: therapeutic significance in congestive heart failure

This review discusses the localization of adrenergic- and dopaminergic-adrenoceptors within the cardiovascular system and describes the cardiovascular and renal changes produced following the activation of these receptors by appropriate agonists. Whereas the role of alpha- and beta-adrenergic agents in the treatment of heart failure is well recognized, recent studies with dopamine (DA)-receptor agonists indicate that they offer a novel approach in the therapy of congestive heart failure. DA-adrenoceptor agonists reduce afterload by causing vasodilation and promote sodium excretion via direct activation of DA1-adrenoceptors located on renal tubules. Fenoldopam is a selective DA1-adrenoceptor agonist found to be effective in heart failure. It reduces afterload by causing peripheral vasodilation and produces natriuresis and diuresis. Dopexamine is a DA1- and beta 2-adrenoceptor agonist, and its efficacy in heart failure is due to its ability to provide mild inotropic support and cause a reduction in afterload. Ibopamine is a prodrug that is converted into its active metabolite, epinine. This compound activates primarily DA1- and DA2-adrenoceptors. It is effective in heart failure, and the mechanism progresses via DA1- and DA2-adrenoceptor-mediated reduction in afterload. Agonists of DA2-adrenoceptors reduce afterload by decreasing the release of norepinephrine and by reducing the levels of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Since both of these systems are active in heart failure, ibopamine offers a rational approach for therapy. The present review addresses the concept of pharmacologic intervention in adrenergic and dopaminergic influence in the cardiovascular and renal systems to produce changes that are desirable for the pharmacotherapy of congestive heart failure.

Clonidine inhibits fluid absorption in the rabbit proximal convoluted renal tubule

Previous studies have shown that norepinephrine (NE) and the beta-adrenoceptor agonist, isoproterenol (I), enhance fluid absorption (JV) in isolated, perfused proximal convoluted tubule segments (PCT). Pretreatment of PCT with the beta-adrenoceptor antagonist, propranolol, inhibited the action of NE and produced a significant decline in JV, suggesting modulation of JV by both alpha- and beta-adrenoceptors. The present studies further characterize the alpha-adrenoceptor control of JV in isolated perfused PCT using specific agonists and antagonists. Basal JV declined significantly with the addition of the alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonist, clonidine (10(-4) M), to the bath; however, it was unchanged with the addition of the alpha 1-adrenoceptor agonist, methoxamine (10(-6) or 10(-4) M). With the addition of 10(-6) M isoproterenol JV increased significantly, and returned to control values with the subsequent addition of clonidine (10(-6) or 10(-4) M). Pretreatment of PCT with the alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist, yohimbine (10(-5) M), or with pertussis toxin (100 ng/ml) did not interfere with the stimulation of JV by isoproterenol, but abolished the inhibition of isoproterenol-stimulated JV by clonidine. Thus, clonidine inhibits JV in PCT via an alpha 2-adrenoceptor. This effect is mediated by a pertussis toxin inhibitable GTP-binding protein, but not one that is coupled to adenylyl cyclase.

Enhanced natriuretic potency of intravenous clonidine: extrarenal site of action?

We have previously demonstrated that low intrarenal infusion rates of clonidine selectively increased water excretion, whereas higher infusion rates were required to increase solute excretion. This is in contrast to previous experiments where intravenous administration of clonidine resulted in a concomitant increase in water and sodium excretion. We therefore determined the dose response curve for an intravenous infusion of clonidine on water and solute excretion and compared this to the effects of an intrarenal infusion. Uninephrectomized rats were anesthetized and the remaining kidney isolated for the collection of urine. Clonidine (0.1, 0.3, 1 or 3 micrograms/kg per min) or vehicle (saline) was administered either intravenously or intrarenally. Both intravenous and intrarenal administration of clonidine produced a dose selective dissociation of water and solute excretion, that is, at low infusion rates only urine volume was increased. Higher infusion rates were required to increase sodium excretion. In addition, intravenous administration of clonidine was more potent in producing a natriuresis, suggesting that the renal effects may be, in part, secondary to additional peripheral and/or central effects of this agonist following this route of administration.

Renal nerve contribution to NaCl-exacerbated hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats

Previous studies demonstrate that bilateral renal denervation enhances urinary sodium excretion and delays the onset of hypertension in young (7-week-old) spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) maintained on ordinary laboratory chow. We interpret these data as suggesting that increased renal nerve activity in this model contributes to hypertension by causing excess sodium retention. More recent studies show that dietary NaCl supplementation increases blood pressure and peripheral sympathetic nervous system activity in NaCl-sensitive SHR (SHR-S). The present study tests the hypothesis that the renal nerves contribute to the rise in arterial pressure caused by dietary NaCl supplementation in this model. SHR-S were fed a high (8%) or basal (1%) NaCl diet beginning at age 7 weeks. Bilateral renal denervation was carried out 2 weeks after the initiation of the diets, at which time systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in the high (compared with the basal) NaCl group. Systolic blood pressure was reduced slightly less in denervated SHR-S on the high (compared with basal) NaCl diet during the following 5 weeks. Renal denervation performed 1 week before initiation of the diets attenuated the subsequent development of hypertension equally in both groups. Both renal denervation and the high NaCl diet increased alpha 2-adrenergic receptor numbers in the kidney; renal denervation caused an approximately equal increase in alpha 2-adrenergic receptor binding in SHR-S on high and basal NaCl diets. The high NaCl diet increased plasma noradrenaline concentration, and renal denervation lowered mean arterial pressure but did not decrease circulating catecholamines in either diet group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Adrenergic control of cAMP generation in rat inner medullary collecting tubule cells

The adrenergic nervous system profoundly alters water excretion by both renal and extrarenal pathways. The effects of catecholamines on cultured rat inner medullary collecting tubule cells were studied. The beta-adrenergic agonist, isoproterenol, increases cAMP from 19.5 +/- 2.3 to 79.4 +/- 14.4 fm/micrograms protein, P less than 0.001. The response to arginine vasopressin (AVP) is also greater in the presence of isoproterenol, but the increment is unchanged when compared to that seen in the absence of AVP. The agonist effect of isoproterenol is blocked by propranolol but not by the specific beta 1 antagonist, atenolol. The effect of alpha-adrenergic stimulation was studied by the use of norepinephrine (NE) in the background of the beta blocker, propranolol. NE decreases AVP-stimulated cAMP generation from 190 +/- 11 to 117 +/- 10 fm/micrograms, P less than 0.001, N = 6. The specific alpha 2 antagonist, yohimbine, but not the alpha 1 antagonist, prazosin, prevents the NE-induced decrease as AVP-stimulated cAMP is restored to 187 +/- 19 fm/micrograms. Similarly the selective alpha 2 agonist, clonidine, significantly inhibits both AVP- and isoproterenol-mediated cAMP generation. To define the site of alpha 2 inhibition in the adenylate cyclase (AC) complex the effect of pertussis toxin (PT) was investigated. After pretreatment with PT (1-1000 ng/ml), AVP-stimulated cAMP was not inhibited by NE. The alpha 1 agonist, phenylephrine, fails to inhibit AC or to increase cytosolic Ca in these cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Inhibitory guanosine triphosphate-binding protein-mediated regulation of vasopressin action in isolated single medullary tubules of mouse kidney

Vasopressin (AVP) plays a key role in maximal urine concentration by stimulating NaCl reabsorption in the medullary thick ascending limbs of Henle (MAL) and by increasing water permeability in the medullary collecting tubules (MCT). These effects of AVP in MAL and MCT are mediated by cAMP. Alpha 2-adrenergic stimulation in MCT, and high ambient Ca2+ and PGE2 in MAL inhibit AVP-dependent cAMP production and thereby modulate urine concentration. The present study was undertaken to clarify the mechanisms underlying the inhibition of AVP-dependent cAMP production by these agents using microdissected mouse MAL and MCT. Preincubation of MCT and MAL with 1 microgram/ml pertussis toxin for 3 and 6 h, respectively, resulted in ADP-ribosylation of an approximately 41-kD protein, which was presumably an alpha subunit of the inhibitory GTP-binding protein Gi. Epinephrine, 10(-6) M, via alpha 2-adrenergic stimulation, inhibited AVP-dependent cAMP production in MCT. Preincubation of MCT for 3 h with pertussis toxin abolished the inhibition of AVP-dependent cAMP production by epinephrine. High ambient Ca2+ and PGE2 both inhibited AVP-dependent cAMP production in MAL. Preincubation of MAL for 6 h with pertussis toxin abolished the inhibition by high ambient Ca2+ and attenuated the inhibition by PGE2. Preincubation of MCT or MAL with pertussis toxin for 1 h was ineffective in ADP-ribosylation and did not modify the inhibition of AVP-dependent cAMP production by these agents in both nephron segments. Our data suggest that the inhibition of AVP-dependent cAMP production by alpha 2-adrenergic stimulation in MCT, and by high ambient Ca2+ and adrenergic stimulation in MCT, and by high ambient Ca2+ and PGE2 in MAL, is mediated, at least in part, through activation of Gi.

Renal alpha 2-adrenoceptor blockade decreases sodium and water excretion in the anesthetized rat

The reported effects of renal alpha 2-adrenoceptor blockade on sodium and water excretion have been inconsistent. We therefore studied the effect of an intrarenal infusion of an alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist in rats undergoing two distinct levels of diuresis and natriuresis. Renal excretion of sodium and water was studied in anesthetized rats that had been unilaterally nephrectomized (right kidney) 10 days prior to the experimental day. In the presence of the lower rate of saline infusion an intrarenal infusion of the alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist, yohimbine, (25.6 nmol/kg per min) resulted in no change in urine volume or sodium and potassium excretion. In the presence of the modest diuresis, due to the higher level of saline infusion, intrarenal yohimbine resulted in a decrease in urine volume, sodium excretion and free water clearance. These effects of yohimbine were not found in adrenalectomized rats. The ability to demonstrate an effect of renal alpha 2-adrenoceptor blockade was dependent on the baseline level of sodium and water excretion. These results suggest that renal alpha 2-adrenoceptors may mediate the inhibition of the renal action of vasopressin by adrenal catecholamines.

Alpha-2-adrenergic modulation of the parathyroid hormone-inhibition of phosphate uptake in cultured renal (OK) cells

Parathyroid hormone enhances the formation of cAMP and decreases the Na+-dependent uptake of phosphate in cultured renal cells derived from the American opossum (OK cells). Epinephrine, acting as an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist, inhibits the PTH-induced synthesis of cAMP by a pertussis toxin-sensitive mechanism and blunts the inhibition of phosphate transport by PTH. Na+-dependent alpha-methylglucoside and Na+ uptakes by the cells are unaffected by PTH and epinephrine. These findings suggest that alpha 2-adrenergic agonists may selectively modulate PTH-sensitive phosphate transport in the renal proximal tubule.

Captopril inhibits the hydroosmotic effect of ADH in the cortical collecting tubule

Previous studies have shown that captopril (CP) inhibits ADH-stimulated osmotic water permeability (Pf) in the toad bladder by potentiating endogenous bradykinin (BK). The present studies examine the effect of CP on ADH-stimulated Pf in isolated, perfused rabbit cortical collecting tubules (CCT). CP (10(-4) M) reversibly inhibited Pf, stimulated by maximal concentrations of ADH (10 microU/ml). Pretreatment of CCT's with 5 microM indomethacin, however, abolished the effect of CP. Inhibition of BK production by the kallikrein inhibitors, aprotinin and benzamidine, failed to enhance Pf stimulated by submaximal concentrations of ADH (2.5 microU/ml). Since ADH exerts its effects by activation of adenylyl cyclase (AC), further experiments were performed to identify the site at which CP inhibits this cascade. CP significantly inhibited forskolin (10(-4) M) stimulated Pf; however, it had no effect on cyclic AMP (10(-5) M) stimulated Pf, suggesting that the site of action is on the catalytic subunit or one of the GTP regulatory proteins of AC. To further localize the site of CP's action, CCT's were pre-incubated with pertussis toxin (0.5 microgram/ml) to inactivate the inhibitory, guanosine triphosphate (GTP) regulatory protein, Gi. In these tubules, CP failed to inhibit the action of ADH. We conclude that CP stimulates prostaglandin production which in turn activates Gi and inhibits AC activity. We further suggest that CP stimulates PG's directly, not via BK.

Prevention of alpha 2-adrenergic inhibition on ADH action by pertussis toxin in rabbit CCT

The present studies were performed to investigate the mechanism whereby alpha 2-adrenergic receptor occupancy inhibits the hydrosmotic action of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) in isolated cortical collecting tubules (CCT). The ADH-ribosyltransferase activity of pertussis toxin (PT) was used to promote covalent modification in CCT Ni, the inhibitory regulatory protein of adenylate cyclase, which presumably mediates the alpha 2-adrenergic inhibition of water flow. Tubules preincubated with PT were studied after the addition of ADH and then after the superimposition of clonidine. In these studies, the inhibition of Jv (water absorption, nl X mm-1 X min-1) and Pf (water permeability coefficient, cm/s), by the addition of 10(-4) M clonidine to the bath, was attenuated by PT in a concentration-dependent manner. Reversal of the inhibitory action of clonidine was accomplished with a concentration of 1.0 micrograms/ml PT. To further elucidate the molecular basis of Ni-mediated transduction of the alpha 2-adrenergic signal, ADP-ribosylation studies were undertaken in membrane preparations of dissected CCT segments. PT ADP ribosylated a 40,000 Mr peptide which was proportional to the amount of membrane protein added. Furthermore, pretreatment of CCT during dissection with 0.5 micrograms/ml PT dramatically decreased the susceptibility of the subunit of Ni (alpha i) to be subsequently ADP ribosylated by PT, when compared with CCT preparations not previously treated with PT. Cholera toxin ADP ribosylated a 42,000 Mr peptide from CCT membranes and PT pretreatment did not interfere with the reaction. We conclude that CCT segments have both the pertussis and cholera toxin substrates and the effect of clonidine to attenuate ADH action is mediated through Ni.

Adrenoceptors in the kidney: localization and pharmacology

The kidney plays a key role in the regulation of blood pressure. The sympathetic nervous system can influence many aspects of kidney function in relation to blood pressure control, e.g. renal vascular tone, intrarenal renin release and tubular reabsorption of electrolytes and fluid. The intrarenal distribution of adrenoceptors has now been studied on the basis of modern receptor ligand binding techniques combined with microscopic studies. The preferential localization of each adrenoceptor subtype within the kidney is reviewed. Furthermore, an attempt is made to describe the functional correlation of the presence of different adrenoceptor subtypes. Finally, the possible role of renal adrenoceptor abnormalities in the pathogenesis of hypertension is discussed.

Na+, K+, and BP homeostasis in man during furosemide: effects of prazosin and captopril

Furosemide increases sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) excretion but if dietary salt is provided, a compensatory reduction in Na+ and K+ excretion follows which restores neutral balances within 18 to 24 hours. This compensation is not interrupted by blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAA) alone with captopril. Since plasma norepinephrine concentration increases after furosemide and alpha 1 adrenoreceptors can mediate enhanced Na+ reabsorption, we administered prazosin (2 mg 6 hr-1) to six normal volunteers consuming a daily intake of 270 mmol of Na+ and 75 mmol of K+, and added captopril (25 mg 6 hr-1) for an additional day to block the RAA system concurrently. Furosemide (40 mg day-1) was given for the last four days. Prazosin given alone before the diuretic reduced (P less than 0.05) BP and plasma angiotensin II (AII) concentration and increased body weight and heart rate. However, when given with furosemide, neither prazosin nor prazosin with captopril modified the short-term natriuretic or kaliuretic responses to furosemide, or the ensuing compensatory reductions in Na+ and K+ excretion. Accordingly, cumulative balances for Na+ and K+ remained neutral over four days of diuretic administration. Neither drug altered the renal responsiveness to the diuretic which was assessed from the relationship between renal Na+ and K+ excretion and diuretic elimination. Although the BP was maintained when furosemide was given alone, when given with prazosin and captopril, the mean BP fell by 13 +/- 5 mm Hg (P less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Characterization of alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenoceptors directly associated with basolateral membranes from rat kidney proximal tubules

We have used 2-(beta-(3-125iodo-4-hydroxyphenyl)-ethylaminoethyl)-tetr alo ne ([125I]HEAT or BE2254), an alpha 1-selective antagonist, and [3H]yohimbine, an alpha 2-selective antagonist, to demonstrate and characterize binding sites in basolateral membranes from rat kidney cortex. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) stimulated the adenylate cyclase activity of the basolateral membranes, whereas thyrocalcitonin, arginine vasopressin (AVP) and isoproterenol did not. Therefore, the basolateral membranes were probably derived from the proximal tubules. The specific binding of [125I]HEAT and [3H]yohimbine to basolateral membranes was rapid, reversible, saturable and of high affinity. The maximum densities of alpha 1- and alpha 2-receptors were 364 and 1130 fmoles/mg protein, indicating that the ratio of alpha 1- to alpha 2-adrenoceptors was about 1:3. The specific binding of [125I]HEAT and [3H]yohimbine to the basolateral membranes was displaced by various adrenergic agents in a manner that suggests that the labeled sites probably represent alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenoceptors respectively. These results suggest that the binding sites of [125I]HEAT and [3H]yohimbine, which appear to be alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenoceptors, exist in the basolateral membranes of the proximal tubules.

Guanabenz: a centrally acting, natriuretic antihypertensive drug

Guanabenz is acutely natriuretic and diuretic in saline expanded animals. In man, guanabenz has not resulted in sodium retention as seen with other comparable antihypertensives. To directly define the action of guanabenz on sodium and water excretion in man, we performed clearance studies during water diuresis on eight hypertensive subjects under metabolic balance conditions. Each subject underwent three studies: 1) baseline study: no drug, a water diuresis study; this was followed by a saline load (= 2% BW); 2) acute study (24 hr after baseline): 16 mg guanabenz PO; and 3) chronic study: after one week of guanabenz 8 mg PO BID. In the acute guanabenz studies there were: 1) no changes in GFR or ERPF; 2) an increase in both sodium excretion and fractional sodium excretion; 3) a rise in free H2O clearance (CH2O) and (CH2O/GFR) X 100%. These findings were not sustained in the chronic guanabenz studies. We conclude that in man (preconditioned with prior saline loading) guanabenz is acutely natriuretic and water diuretic. These effects are due to decreased tubular sodium and water reabsorption, probably related to inhibition of alpha adrenergic activity. The data are consistent with selectively reduced renal sympathetic activity affecting sodium transport and provide a basis for the absence of edema and sodium retention associated with guanabenz therapy.

Renal alpha 2-adrenergic receptors multiply and mediate sodium retention after prazosin treatment

Renal nerve stimulation-induced antinatriuresis normally is mediated through post-synaptic alpha 1-adrenergic receptors; however, prazosin-induced alpha 1-adrenergic receptor blockade is associated clinically with sodium retention and not natriuresis. To study whether alpha 2-adrenergic receptors mediate renal nerve stimulation-induced antinatriuresis after chronic prazosin treatment, Sprague-Dawley rats were pretreated for 3 days with prazosin (3 mg/kg/day i.p. plus 0.15 mg/ml drinking water) or vehicle (untreated). In isolated perfused (Krebs-Henseleit; Ficoll, 3.5 g/dl, + albumin, 1.0 g/dl at 36 degrees C) kidneys from untreated rats, subpressor levels of renal nerve stimulation (approximately 1 Hz, 10 V, 1 msec) decreased (p less than 0.05) sodium (from 4.50 +/- 0.42 to 1.71 +/- .23 muEq/min) and urinary excretion rate (from 87.2 +/- 4.1 to 57.9 +/- 3.9 microliter/min). Adding prazosin (30 nM) to the perfusate completely (approximately 90%) reversed this effect (p less than 0.05), while alpha 2-adrenergic receptor blockade with yohimbine (300 nM) had no effect. In perfused kidneys from prazosin-treated rats, renal nerve stimulation decreased (p less than 0.05) sodium (from 3.24 +/- .40 to 1.32 +/- .27 muEq/min) and urinary excretion rate (from 78.7 +/- 5.0 to 54.1 +/- 5.3 microliter/min). However, adding prazosin (100 nM) to the perfusate produced only a slight, insignificant reversal of these effects; prazosin plus yohimbine were required to completely reverse the effects. These results suggest that renal nerve stimulation-induced sodium reabsorption was activated by alpha 1-adrenergic receptors in untreated rats and in part by alpha 2-adrenergic receptors in rats pretreated for 3 days with prazosin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Somatostatin and alpha 2-adrenergic agonists selectively inhibit vasopressin-induced cyclic AMP accumulation in MDCK cells

The effect of somatostatin and alpha 2-adrenergic agonists on cyclic AMP accumulation was examined in MDCK cells, grown in defined medium. These hormones inhibited vasopressin-induced cyclic AMP formation, without affecting either the basal or the glucagon- and prostaglandin E2-stimulated level. Pretreating the cells with pertussis toxin, or incubating them with MnCl2 at a low concentration reversed the effect of somatostatin and alpha 2-agonists. These results suggest that somatostatin and norepinephrine could selectively modulate the renal effect of vasopressin, via the inhibitory regulatory subunit (Ni) of adenylate cyclase.

Regulation of renal cellular cAMP levels by prostaglandins and alpha 2-adrenoceptors: microdissection studies

Previous studies in our laboratory demonstrated that alpha 2-adrenoceptor activation reversed arachidonic acid induced diuresis in the rat. However, the site of action was not elucidated. Since prostaglandin E2 is the predominant prostaglandin metabolite of arachidonic acid, we studied the effect of renal alpha 2-adrenoceptor stimulation on prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) induced cAMP formation. The study was done in intact single nephron segments and glomeruli. All incubations were done in the presence of 1-methyl-3-isobutylxanthine (phosphodiesterase inhibitor) and propranolol at 37 degrees C for two minutes. PGE2 increased cellular cAMP levels in the thin descending limb of Henle (tDL), cortical collecting tubule (CCT) and glomerulus. Alpha 2-adrenoceptors were activated with varying concentrations of epinephrine (E). In the tDL, alpha 2-adrenoceptor activation with E (5 X 10(-6)M to 5 X 10(-5)M) suppressed (p less than 0.05) PGE2 stimulated cAMP production by 35%. This suppression by E was inhibited by 5 X 10(-6)M yohimbine but not by 5 X 10(-6)M prazosin confirming alpha 2-adrenoceptor mediation of the effects of E. Conversely, in the CCT and glomerulus, E had no effect on PGE2-stimulated increases in cellular cAMP levels. Thus, the capacity of alpha 2-adrenoceptors to inhibit PGE2-stimulated adenylate cyclase is anatomic site-specific. This effect of alpha 2-adrenoceptors on cAMP in the tDL may explain, at least in part, the effect of alpha 2-adrenoceptors on arachidonic acid induced diuresis in the rat.

Innervation of the late distal nephron: an autoradiographic and ultrastructural study

A study of the monoaminergic innervation of the cortical distal nephron beyond the thick ascending limb of Henle (TALH) was carried out by surveying nine autoradiograms, from three rats injected with exogenous tritiated norepinephrine, for overlapping of the tubule by accumulations of autoradiographic grains (AAGs). The largest number of the AAGs appeared on the late distal convoluted tubule-connecting tubule (LDCT-CNT) portion and the vast majority of the AAGs were related to the afferent arteriole. The distal convoluted tubule (DCT) and cortical collecting duct (CCD) showed half of their AAGs related to the efferent arterioles and capillary-interstitium although a substantial amount was associated with the afferent arterioles or arteries. Electron microscopy of reembedded autoradiograms demonstrated the presence of neuroeffector junctions with the CNT and CCD at sites of AAG overlap. The presence of adrenoceptors in the late distal nephron suggests the possibility of a local response of the nephron to the action of the adrenergic nerves shown in this study.

Renal nerve stimulation causes alpha 1-adrenoceptor-mediated sodium retention but not alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonism of vasopressin

Renal alpha 2-adrenoceptor stimulation by epinephrine infusion reverses cyclic adenosine monophosphate-mediated effects of vasopressin on sodium and water excretion. We used this response to determine whether renal nerve stimulation can activate renal alpha 2-adrenoceptors in the non-recirculating isolated perfused rat kidney (Krebs-Henseleit solution; 3.5 g/100 ml Ficoll; 1 g/100 ml albumin; 36 degrees C; propranolol 100 nM). In the presence of alpha 1-adrenoceptor blockade with prazosin (30 nM) alpha 2-adrenoceptor stimulation with epinephrine reversed the cyclic adenosine monophosphate-mediated effects of vasopressin on sodium (P less than 0.05) and water (P less than 0.05) excretion. Subthreshold (for vasoconstriction) renal nerve stimulation (10 V; 1 msec; 0.65 +/- 0.10 Hz) failed to alter the effect of vasopressin. Similarly, higher levels of renal nerve stimulation [plus prazosin (100 nM) or phenoxybenzamine (1.0 mg/kg per hr) to block alpha 1-adrenoceptors] did not activate renal alpha 2-adrenoceptors which are associated with the antagonism of the effects of vasopressin. The same level of subthreshold renal nerve stimulation (0.85 +/- 0.14 Hz) in the absence of vasopressin, and without alpha 1- or alpha 2-adrenoceptor blockade, decreased (P less than 0.05) sodium and water excretion. The reversal of this effect by alpha 1-adrenoceptor blockade (prazosin 30 nM) but not alpha 2-adrenoceptor blockade (yohimbine 300 nM) indicates that this effect of renal nerve stimulation is mediated through alpha 1-adrenoceptors. Thus, subthreshold renal nerve stimulation in the rat kidney induces sodium and water retention through activation of alpha 1-adrenoceptors, as shown by others in the rabbit and dog.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Dopaminergic modulation of the renal effect of arginine-vasopressin in water-loaded rats

In order to confirm whether dopamine inhibits the antidiuretic action of vasopressin in mammalian kidney, we examined interactions among arginine vasopressin (AVP), dopamine and haloperidol in water-loaded ethanol anesthetized rats. The submaximal dose of AVP causing antidiuresis was 80 microU in this preparation. Dopamine at the doses of 0.11, 1.1 and 11 micrograms/100 g body weight (i.v.) inhibited the antidiuretic effect of 80 microU AVP by 18 +/- 7, 27 +/- 6 and 36 +/- 14%, respectively. The effect of 1.1 micrograms/100 g body weight dopamine in inhibiting the action of AVP was completely reversed by haloperidol at 2.3 micrograms/100 g body weight. Single administration of dopamine or haloperidol was without effect on urine flow. These observations support the view that dopamine inhibits the antidiuretic action of vasopressin by dopaminergic receptors also in the mammalian kidney.

Inhibition of α2-adrenergic agonists on AVP-induced cAMP accumulation in isolated collecting tubule of the rat kidney

A microradioimmunoassay for cAMP was developed in order to analyse the effects of alpha-adrenergic agonists on vasopressin (AVP)-induced cAMP cell accumulation in single pieces of microdissected medullary (MCT) and cortical (CCT) rat collecting tubules. Under the experimental conditions chosen (4 min of incubation in the presence of a phosphodiesterase inhibitor), no cAMP could be detected either in the bathing solution or in non-stimulating samples of tubule. In MCT, 10(-6) M AVP stimulated cAMP generation up to 128.3 +/- 9.0 (SEM) fmoles per mm of tubule per 4 min, N = 11. The response was dose-dependent with a KA value below 10(-10) M AVP. The addition of norepinephrine (NE) (10(-5) M in the presence of propranolol) suppressed the larger part of the response to AVP (from 92% with 2 X 10(-11) M AVP to 76% with 10(-6) M AVP); the addition of 10(-7) M NE still reduced by 59% the MCT response to 10(-10) M AVP (26.2 +/- 5.9 vs. 64.0 +/- 6.4 fmoles/mm, N = 3). In CCT, 10(-5) M NE reduced by 84% the cAMP generation induced by 10(-10) M AVP (8.8 +/- 2.0 vs. 54.2 +/- 3.5 fmoles/mm, N = 3). This inhibitory action of NE against the AVP effect in CCT was mimicked by 10(-7) M clonidine; in MCT it was suppressed by phentolamine and yohimbine, but not by prazosin, suggesting that alpha 2-adrenoreceptors are involved. On the other hand, the addition of the alpha-agonists to the incubation solution produced no inhibition of the cAMP cell accumulations induced by glucagon, calcitonin and isoproterenol in CCT, or glucagon in MCT, an observation demonstrating that alpha 2-adrenergic agonists selectively inhibit vasopressin-dependent cAMP generation by these nephron segments.