Renal and pressor action of angiotensin in the normal dog

¹ Renal and Electrolyte Division, Georgetown University Hospital, and Department of Medicine, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, D.C.

The renal and pressor actions of angiotensin in relation to dose were studied in unanesthetized dogs. Low doses caused depression of urine flow, electrolyte excretion, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and C_pah. With higher doses, the initial depression of urine flow, GFR, and C_pah was greater, but subsequently these functions rose toward control values. In fact, diuresis occurred, accompanied by natriuresis, chloruresis, and kaliuresis. The natriuresis occurred at a time when GFR was significantly depressed. In longer experiments at high doses it was found that the natriuresis declined after 50 min despite continued angiotensin infusion; however, potassium excretion gradually increased throughout. These results help clarify the confusing literature regarding the effects of angiotensin on renal function in dogs and also support the hypothesis that angiotensin can block tubular sodium reabsorption. The pressor response was found to be proportional to the logarithm of the dose of angiotensin. It was also inversely related to the control blood pressure of the dog.

Note:
With the Technical Assistance of Janusz B. Suszkiw

Key Words: sodium reabsorption • renal tubular function • pressor substances

Submitted on December 14, 1964