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Evidence that atypical vasopressin V(2) receptor in inner medulla of kidney is V(1B) receptor.

Vasopressin V(2) receptors at high-density and V(1B) receptors are candidates for the V(2)-like receptor, which evokes an increase in [Ca(2+)](i) when stimulated by the vasopressin V(2) receptor agonist 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (dDAVP) in kidney inner medullary collecting duct. We compared the pharmacological characteristics of vasopressin V(2) and V(1B) receptors in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells to those of vasopressin V(2)-like receptors in rat inner medullary collecting duct cells. The vasopressin V(1B) receptor-selective agonist [deamino-Cys(1), D-3-(Pyridyl)-Ala(2), Arg(8)]vasopressin (D3PVP) did not stimulate the [Ca(2+)](i) increase in high-density vasopressin V(2) receptor-expressing CHO cells, but did in inner medullary collecting duct cells. Moreover, the vasopressin V(1A)/V(2) receptor dual antagonist 4'-[(2-methyl-1,4,5,6-tetrahydroimidazo[4,5-d][1] benzazepin-6-yl)carbonyl] 2-phenylbenzanilide (YM087), which has no effect on vasopressin V(1B) receptors, did not block the [Ca(2+)](i) increase in inner medullary collecting duct cells when stimulated by dDAVP and D3PVP. On reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis of kidney, vasopressin V(1B) receptor mRNA was detected only in the medulla. We propose that the true nature of the vasopressin V(2)-like receptor in the inner medullary collecting duct is the vasopressin V(1B) receptor, rather than the vasopressin V(2) receptor expressed at high-density.

Animals↗

Vasopressin V(1) receptor-mediated activation of central sympatho-adrenomedullary outflow in rats.

The present study was designed to characterize the vasopressin receptor subtype involved in the vasopressin-induced activation of the central sympatho-adrenomedullary outflow using urethane-anesthetized rats. Intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) administered vasopressin (0.1, 0.2 and 0.5 nmol/animal) dose-dependently elevated plasma levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline (adrenaline>noradrenaline). The vasopressin (0.2 nmol/animal)-induced elevation of both catecholamines was significantly attenuated by [d(CH(2))(5)(1),Tyr(Me)(2),Arg(8)]-vasopressin, a selective vasopressin V(1) receptor antagonist, in a dose-dependent manner (0.1 and 0.2 nmol/animal, i.c.v.). The same doses (0.1 and 0.2 nmol/animal, i.c.v.) of [1-adamantaneacetyl(1),D-Tyr(Et)(2),Val(4),Abu(6), Arg(8,9)]-vasopressin, a potent vasopressin V(2) receptor antagonist, had no effect; however, a large dose of this antagonist (1.6 nmol/animal, i.c.v.) effectively reduced the vasopressin-induced elevation of catecholamines. On the other hand, [5-dimethylamino-1-[4-(2-methylbenzoylamino)benzoyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-benzazepine], a selective vasopressin V(2) receptor antagonist (5 and 10 nmol/animal, i.c.v.), had no effect on the vasopressin-induced elevation of catecholamines. The vasopressin-induced elevation of catecholamines was abolished by indomethacin, an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (1.2 micromol/animal, i.c.v.). These results suggest that the vasopressin activates the central sympatho-adrenomedullary outflow by brain vasopressin V(1) receptor- and cyclooxygenase-dependent mechanisms in rats.

Animals↗

Vasopressin receptor subtypes differentially modulate calcium-activated potassium currents in the horizontal limb of the diagonal band of Broca.

The actions of vasopressin on acutely dissociated neurons within the rat horizontal limb of the diagonal band of Broca were examined using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Vasopressin elicited two distinct responses in 45 of 62 neurons. In one group of cells, 300 nM vasopressin decreased voltage-activated outward currents (26/45 cells) whereas in a second group, vasopressin increased outward currents (19/45 cells). The vasopressin-mediated decrease in outward currents was blocked by 1 microM Manning compound, a V1 receptor antagonist, suggesting that this response was mediated via V1 receptors. In contrast, the vasopressin-induced increase in outward current was blocked by 1 microM d(CH2)5)1,D-Ile2,Ile4,Arg8,Ala9, a V2 receptor antagonist, indicating that V2 receptor activation underlies this second response. When cells were perfused with 0 Ca2+/50 microM Cd2+, application of vasopressin did not cause any change in voltage-activated outward currents, suggesting that vasopressin modulates a calcium-dependent conductance. In the presence of 25 nM charybdotoxin, an Ic channel antagonist, vasopressin application did not influence outward currents, indicating that vasopressin modulates Ic. Currents through voltage-gated calcium channels which are responsible for activation of Ic were unaffected by vasopressin, suggesting a direct effect of vasopressin on Ic channels. These observations indicate a differential modulation of Ic channels by vasopressin via V1 and V2 receptors in the horizontal limb of the diagonal band of Broca. Our data also demonstrate the ionic mechanisms whereby vasopressin may act at V1 for V2 receptors to influence the excitability of the horizontal limb of the diagonal band of Broca neurons.

Animals↗

Exogenous vasopressin influences intraocular pressure via the V(1) receptors.

PURPOSE: To compare central, peripheral, and ocular effects of exogenously given vasopressin on intraocular pressure (IOP) and to identify the related receptor mechanisms of action in rabbits. METHODS: Young adult New Zealand albino rabbits were entrained under a daily 12-hour light and 12-hour dark cycle. In the early light period, bolus injections of vasopressin or desmopressin (a specific V(2) receptor agonist) were given either to the central nervous system (CNS) through an implanted cannula to the 3(rd) ventricle or to the systemic circulation via the ear vein in conscious rabbits. Changes in IOP and pupil size were monitored for up to 6 hours and dose-response curves were generated. Effects of centrally and peripherally given vasopressin on IOP were further examined following pretreatments with a selective V(1) receptor antagonist administered into the 3(rd) ventricle and into the ear vein, respectively. In order to clarify whether or not exogenously given vasopressin can alter IOP by mechanisms inside the eye, vasopressin was injected into the anterior chamber or the vitreous chamber unilaterally in conscious rabbits. Changes in IOP and pupil size were monitored. After an anterior chamber or intravitreal injection of the V(1) receptor antagonist, changes in IOP and pupil size due to an intravenous injection of vasopressin were determined to study the involvement of the related receptor mechanism. RESULTS: A dose-dependent elevation of IOP appeared after injections of vasopressin into the 3(rd) ventricle. There was no pupillary change. This IOP elevation was blocked by the pretreatment with the V(1) receptor antagonist. Following intravenous injections of vasopressin, significant reductions of IOP and pupil size occurred. These reductions were blocked by the pretreatment with the V(1) receptor antagonist. Intracerebroventricular or intravenous injection of desmopressin had no effect on IOP or pupil size. Injection of vasopressin into the anterior chamber or the vitreous chamber caused significant reductions of IOP and pupil size. Pretreatment with the V(1) receptor antagonist into the anterior chamber or the vitreous chamber prevented the reductions of IOP and pupil size following an intravenous injection of vasopressin. CONCLUSIONS: Intracerebroventricular and intravenous injections of vasopressin cause opposite effects on IOP. The central effect of vasopressin on IOP and the peripheral effects of vasopressin on IOP and pupil size are due to stimulations of the V(1) receptors. Reductions of IOP and pupil size following intravenous injections of vasopressin are at least partially due to stimulations of the V(1) receptors inside the eye.

Animals↗

[Cardiovascular effect of the antidiuretic hormone arginine vasopressin].

The two major biological actions of vasopressin are antidiuresis and vasoconstriction. The antidiuretic action of low concentrations of vasopressin is well established and concentrations 10 to 100 times above those required for antidiuresis elevate arterial blood pressure. Antidiuresis is mediated by V2-receptors at the kidney, whereas vasopressin constricts arterioles by binding at V1-receptors. Pharmacological effects of specific antagonists of the vasoconstrictor activity of vasopressin (vascular or V1-receptor antagonists) are presented. Low concentrations of vasopressin do have significant hemodynamic effects. Physiological concentrations of vasopressin cause vasoconstriction and elevate systemic vascular resistance. In subjects with intact cardiovascular reflex activity, however, cardiac output falls concomitantly and blood pressure therefore does not change. In animals with baroreceptor deafferentation or in patients with blunted baroreceptor reflexes (autonomic insufficiency) a rise in plasma vasopressin causes vasoconstriction and an increase in blood pressure, because cardiac output does not fall under these conditions. Vasopressin contributes substantially via increase in systemic vascular resistance to maintain blood pressure during water deprivation. During hemorrhage and hypotension vasopressin has a major role to restore blood pressure. In experimental hypertension vasopressin contributes to the development and maintenance of high blood pressure in DOCA, but not in genetic hypertensive rats. The role of vasopressin in human hypertension is not yet clear. Vasopressin in extrahypothalamic areas of the brain affects circulatory regulation by interaction with central cardiovascular control centers. The exact mechanism of how vasopressin is involved in central regulation of blood pressure remains to be established. In contrast to our previous opinion vasopressin is a vasoactive hormone also at low plasma concentrations. Its cardiovascular action is more complex than previously assumed.

Animals↗

Ovine maternal and fetal renal vasopressin receptor response to maternal dehydration.

OBJECTIVE: Arginine vasopressin secretion increases in response to increased plasma osmolality or hypovolemia. Dehydration-induced increases in plasma arginine vasopressin levels have been shown to down-regulate arginine vasopressin V2 receptors in adult rat kidneys. Our study determined ovine maternal and fetal renal arginine vasopressin receptor characteristics and receptor response to maternal dehydration. STUDY DESIGN: Eight pregnant ewes (113 +/- 1 days) were dehydrated for 72 hours; eight animals served as controls. Renal medullary tissue was isolated from maternal and fetal kidneys, and arginine vasopressin receptor characteristics determined with saturation and competition assays using tritiated arginine vasopressin, arginine vasopressin, and arginine vasopressin analogs. RESULTS: Euhydrated maternal and fetal renal medullary arginine vasopressin receptor dissociation constant (3.0 +/- 0.3 and 1.9 +/- 0.3 nmol/L) and maximal binding capacity (149 +/- 15 and 111 +/- 33 fmol/mg protein) values were similar. Pharmacologic profiles with selective agonists indicated a predominance of V2 receptors. Dehydration significantly increased maternal and fetal plasma osmolalities (304 +/- 2 to 320 +/- 2; 296 +/- 1 to 319 +/- 3 mOsm/kg water, respectively) and arginine vasopressin levels (3.8 +/- 1.4 to 29.3 +/- 4.6; 4.4 +/- 1.0 to 16.9 +/- 5.0 pg/ml, respectively) but had no effect on arginine vasopressin receptor binding. CONCLUSION: Specific, saturable, single-site tritiated arginine vasopressin binding is present in ovine maternal and fetal renal medullary membranes. Ovine maternal and fetal renal arginine vasopressin receptors do not down-regulate in response to dehydration-induced elevations in plasma arginine vasopressin levels.

Animals↗

Stimulation of surfactant secretion by vasopressin in primary cultures of adult rat type II pneumocytes.

The current study examined the effect of vasopressin on the secretion of phosphatidylcholine, the principal component of pulmonary surfactant, from adult rat alveolar type II pneumocytes in primary culture. Vasopressin stimulated secretion in a time- and dose-dependent manner. At a concentration of 10 nM, vasopressin stimulated release by 6-fold over the basal secretory rate. The concentration producing half the maximal response for vasopressin-induced secretion was 0.4 nM. The stimulation of phosphatidylcholine release by vasopressin was duplicated by the vasopressin fragment, amino acids 4 through 9. [Lys8]vasopressin and the selective vasopressin-2 agonist [deamino-8-D-Arg]vasopressin did not stimulate surfactant secretion effectively. The vasopressin- and fragment-induced secretion was inhibited by the vasopressin-1 receptor antagonist d(CH2)5TDAVP and the protein kinase C inhibitor, tetracaine, but not by the beta-adrenergic antagonist alprenolol. Vasopressin did not activate adenylate cyclase, which suggests that stimulation by vasopressin was independent of cyclic AMP. When vasopressin and isoproterenol were added concomitantly, the effects on phosphatidylcholine secretion were additive. This suggests that these two secretagogues operate via separate mechanisms.

Adenylyl Cyclases↗

Vascular effects of [Arg8]vasopressin in the isolated perfused rat kidney.

The renal vascular effects of [Arg8]vasopressin (vasopressin) were investigated in the isolated perfused rat kidney. Vasopressin (0.01-3 nM) elicited a dose-dependent vasoconstriction in kidneys from Sprague Dawley rats, with a EC50 value of 0.206 +/- 0.044 nM. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase by N omega-nitro-L-arginine (100 microM) shifted the vasopressin-induced vasoconstrictor response curve to the left. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase by indomethacin (10 or 30 microM) blunted the constriction induced by low concentrations of the peptide. Vasopressin, like angiotensin II but not noradrenaline, induced tachyphylaxis, SR 49059 ((2S)1-[(2R,3S)-5-chloro-3-(2-chlorophenyl)-1-(3,4-dimethoxybenzene- sulfonyl)-3-hydroxy-2,3-dihydro-1H-indole-2-carbonyl]-pyrrolidine-2- carboxamide) (1-30 nM), a new potent and selective non-peptide vasopressin V1A receptor antagonist, shifted the concentration-response curve for vasopressin to the right without decreasing the maximum contraction. Antagonism became competitive with a pA2 value (+/- S.D.) of 9.72 +/- 0.20 during inhibition of nitric oxide release. [Mpa1,D-Arg8]Vasopressin (desmopressin; 0.1-100 nM), or vasopressin (0.01-1 nM) after blockade of the vasopressin V1A receptor by SR 49059, induced no vasopressin V2 receptor-related renal relaxation in kidneys with vascular tone previously restored by noradrenaline or prostaglandin F2 alpha. These findings indicate that in the isolated perfused rat kidney vasopressin is a potent renal vasoconstrictor. The constriction depends on activation of smooth muscle vasopressin V1A receptors and is modulated by endothelial nitric oxide but not by prostacyclin or vasopressin V2 receptor-related vasodilation.

Angiotensin II↗

Immuno-electron microscopic evidence for two different types of partial somatic repair of the mutant Brattleboro vasopressin gene.

In homozygous Brattleboro rats a frame-shift mutation in the vasopressin gene prevents secretion of vasopressin by magnocellular neurosecretory neurons and thus causes diabetes insipidus. Whereas most "vasopressin" neurons in Brattleboro homozygotes apparently lack vasopressin and its associated neurophysin and glycopeptide, some isolated cells overcome the mutation and "revert" to producing readily detectable amounts of vasopressin. We describe here two morphologically and immunocytochemically distinct subsets of such "revertant" cells. One subset contain, in their rough endoplasmic reticulum cisterns, electron-dense aggregates immunoreactive for vasopressin, for parts of oxytocin-neurophysin, and for CP14 (a peptide with a sequence deduced from the mutated precursor), but not for vasopressin-associated glycopeptide ("glycopeptide") or vasopressin-neurophysin. In Brattleboro heterozygotes, which have one mutant and one normal copy of the vasopressin gene, morphologically similar revertant cells exist; the aggregates in the rough endoplasmic reticulum of these cells do not immuno-label for CP14, but the cells do produce 160-nm neurosecretory granules immunoreactive for vasopressin, vasopressin-neurophysin and glycopeptide. In Brattleboro homozygotes, the second, more abundant subset of neurons which recover vasopressin immunoreactivity also express vasopressin-associated glycopeptide and CP14 but not oxytocin-neurophysin; both glycopeptide and CP14 are restricted to the rough endoplasmic reticulum but do not form aggregates. We conclude that two different somatic repairs of the Brattleboro mutation can occur. We propose that, in aggregate-containing neurons, exons B and C have been exchanged between the vasopressin and oxytocin genes; glycopeptide-immunoreactive neurons have either undergone mismatch repair or exchanged exon B.

Animals↗

Circulating vasopressin influences area postrema neurons.

Extracellular single-unit recordings were obtained from 107 area postrema and 74 nucleus tractus solitarius neurons in sodium pentobarbital anaesthetized rats. Systemic administration of vasopressin (1-10 ng) decreased the firing frequency of 45.8% of area postrema neurons and 58.1% of nucleus tractus solitarius neurons tested while the firing frequency of 38.3% of area postrema neurons and 21.6% of nucleus tractus solitarius neurons was increased by this peptide. To determine whether these neurons were specifically influenced by vasopressin or the accompanying pressor response, the effects of alpha-adrenergic agonists on neuronal activity were also determined. Cells that responded similarly to vasopressin and the change in blood pressure elicited by alpha-adrenergic agonists were classified as "blood pressure-sensitive", whereas those neurons that responded differently to both agents were classified as "vasopressin-sensitive" neurons. The majority (85.2%) of area postrema cells that decreased firing frequency in response to vasopressin were determined to be "vasopressin-sensitive", while 68.8% of area postrema neurons responding to vasopressin with increases in firing frequency were classified as "blood pressure-sensitive". In contrast, 78.6% of nucleus tractus solitarius neurons that decreased firing frequency in response to vasopressin and 55.5% of those that increased firing frequency were classified as "blood pressure-sensitive" neurons. To determine whether the actions of vasopressin in the area postrema were mediated by V1 receptors the effect of vasopressin after V1 receptor blockade was examined in seven "vasopressin-sensitive" area postrema neurons. All seven neurons tested showed no response to vasopressin after such V1 receptor blockade. These data suggest that there exists a population of area postrema neurons specifically responsive to circulating vasopressin as a result of actions of this peptide at V1 receptors. They also implicate these neurons in the physiological mechanisms through which circulating vasopressin acts in the area postrema to influence baroreceptor reflex sensitivity.

Animals↗

The role of vasopressin in experimental and clinical hypertension.

The vasoconstrictor and vasopressor actions of vasopressin have been revealed in recent research through the use of highly specific and sensitive radioimmunoassays, employment of peptide antagonists, and comparison with an animal model which has hereditary absence of this hormone, the Brattleboro rat. Factors now known to modify the pressor effect of vasopressin are the baroreflexes, local vascular prostaglandin production, and a specific interaction with angiotensin II. In experimental models the volume retaining, but not the vasoconstrictor effect of vasopressin is necessary for mineralocorticoid-salt hypertension. Vasopressin contributes directly to the increase in arterial pressure of glycerol induced acute renal failure. In nephrectomized rats, plasma vasopressin is elevated and contributes directly to maintenance of pressure. Vasopressin antagonism may reduce arterial pressure in Goldblatt 1 and 2 kidney hypertension and in one genetic model, spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR), but the peptide is not necessary for hypertension in these models. Plasma vasopressin is reduced in primary aldosteronism, but may be elevated in malignant hypertension. In essential hypertension, there is considerable disagreement among various studies in which plasma vasopressin, urine vasopressin excretion, platelet associated vasopressin, or vasopressin-neurophysin were measured as to whether there is evidence for increased secretion of vasopressin. Only preliminary studies of vasopressin antagonism in clinical hypertension have been reported. At present, there is no conclusive evidence that elevated vasopressin secretion occurs or is necessary for any form of clinical hypertension.

Acute Disease↗

Intraosseous vasopressin improves coronary perfusion pressure rapidly during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in pigs.

OBJECTIVE: Intravenous administration of vasopressin during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may be more effective than optimal doses of epinephrine. The main purpose of this study was to determine whether intraosseous vasopressin achieves serum drug levels comparable with intravenous doses during CPR and, additionally, to evaluate the effects of intraosseous vasopressin during CPR. DESIGN: Prospective, randomized laboratory investigation using an established porcine model with instrumentation for measurement of hemodynamic variables, blood gases, and return of spontaneous circulation. SETTING: University hospital laboratory. SUBJECTS: Twelve domestic pigs. INTERVENTIONS: After 4 mins of untreated ventricular fibrillation and 3 mins of CPR, 12 pigs were randomized to be treated with intravenous administration of vasopressin (0.8 unit/kg vasopressin; n = 6) or intraosseous vasopressin (0.8 unit/kg vasopressin; n = 6). Defibrillation was performed 5 mins after drug administration to attempt the return of spontaneous circulation. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: At both 90 secs and 5 mins after drug administration, intravenous and intraosseous administration of vasopressin resulted in comparable mean (+/-SEM) coronary perfusion pressure (43+/-4 vs. 44+/-3 and 30+/-2 vs. 37+/-2 mm Hg, respectively) and vasopressin plasma concentrations (13,706+/-1,857 vs. 16,166+/-3,114 pg/mL and 10,372+/-883 vs. 8246+/-2211 pg/mL, respectively). All animals in both groups were successfully resuscitated; pigs that received intraosseous vasopressin had a significantly higher (p < .05) mean arterial (92+/-6 vs. 129+/-12 mm Hg) and coronary perfusion pressure (84+/-11 vs. 119+/-11 mm Hg) at 5 mins of return of spontaneous circulation. CONCLUSIONS: Intraosseous vasopressin resulted in comparable vasopressin plasma levels, hemodynamic variables, and return of spontaneous circulation rates as did intravenous vasopressin. Intraosseous vasopressin may be an alternative for vasopressor administration during CPR, when intravenous access is delayed or not available.

Animals↗

Regulation of proliferation by vasopressin in aortic smooth muscle cells: function of protein kinase C.

AIM: To investigate the effect of arginine vasopressin-stimulated prostaglandin synthesis and the activation of protein kinase C on DNA synthesis in rat aortic smooth muscle cells. METHODS: The effects of arginine vasopressin on the release of arachidonic acid and the synthesis of prostaglandin (PG) E2 and prostacyclin (PGI2) were determined. The effects of 12-o-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), a protein kinase C-activating phorbol ester, and of 1-oleoyl-2-acetylglycerol, a specific activator of protein kinase C, were evaluated in cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells. The effects of arginine vasopressin and prostaglandins on the progression from the late G1 to the S phase of the cell cycle were evaluated by measuring the DNA synthesis, and the effects of TPA on them were evaluated. RESULTS: Arginine vasopressin dose-dependently stimulated arachidonic acid release. TPA and 1-oleoyl-2-acetylglycerol dose-dependently increased the vasopressin-induced arachidonic acid release. Vasopressin stimulated the synthesis of both PGE2 and PGI2. TPA increased the vasopressin-stimulated prostaglandin synthesis as well as the arachidonic acid release. Vasopressin, added at the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle, stimulated DNA synthesis of aortic smooth muscle cells. Exogenous PGE2 and PGI2 inhibited the DNA synthesis and showed maximum inhibition when added at the late G1 phase. TPA alone, added at the late G1 phase, reduced the DNA synthesis stimulated by vasopressin at the G0/G1 phase to about 45%, but vasopressin alone, added at the late G1 phase, had little effect. However, with TPA pretreatment, vasopressin significantly suppressed the DNA synthesis by about 70%. Staurosporine, a protein kinase C inhibitor, reduced the suppression by TPA alone or by vasopressin with TPA pretreatment almost to the control level. Indomethacin, a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor, reduced the suppression by vasopressin with TPA pretreatment almost to the level of TPA alone. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that arginine vasopressin has a suppressive effect on DNA synthesis in rat aortic smooth muscle cells by inhibiting progression from the late G1 into the S phase of the cell cycle through the synthesis of PGE2 and PGI2, and that protein kinase C acts as an amplifier of this mechanism.

Animals↗

Vasopressin in the ICU.

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: Vasopressin is one of the most important endogenously released stress hormones during shock. In this review, studies published in the past year that add to our understanding of the use of vasopressin in the ICU are discussed. RECENT FINDINGS: Endogenous vasopressin levels are inappropriately low in adults with severe sepsis but not in children with meningococcal septic shock. Vasopressin but not norepinephrine improved renal blood flow and oxygen delivery and prolonged survival in animal models of septic shock. In human vasodilatory shock, the combination of low-dose vasopressin and norepinephrine was found to be safe and effective. In humans, vasopressin can cause gastrointestinal hypoperfusion and ischemic skin lesions. In hypodynamic animal models of sepsis vasopressin compromised oxygen delivery and decreased systemic and gut blood flow.High-dose bolus vasopressin appeared promising in animal studies of hemorrhagic shock and cardiopulmonary arrest and in a large, randomized clinical trial of vasopressin versus epinephrine in human cardiopulmonary arrest with asystole. However, poor neurologic outcomes raised controversy in introducing vasopressin into CPR guidelines. SUMMARY: There is growing evidence that vasopressin infusion in septic shock is safe and effective. Several studies published this year support the hypothesis that vasopressin should be used as a continuous low-dose infusion (between 0.01 and 0.04 U/min in adults) and not titrated as a single vasopressor agent. However, multiple studies highlight the clinical equipoise that exists regarding the use of vasopressin in vasodilatory shock. Guidelines on management of septic shock recommend "cautious use of vasopressin pending further studies."

Animals↗

Inhibitory effects of SR 49059 on oxytocin-and vasopressin-induced uterine contractions in non-pregnant women.

BACKGROUND: Compounds that block uterine oxytocin and vasopressin V1a receptors have a therapeutic potential in preterm labor and primary dysmenorrhoea. The orally active vasopressin V1a receptor antagonist, SR49059, inhibits the effect of vasopressin on human uterine activity in vivo, but the influence on the response to oxytocin is unknown. METHODS: In a placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group, four-dose comparison, the inhibitory effect of SR 49059 on oxytocin- and vasopressin-induced uterine contractions in humans was investigated. Sixteen healthy female subjects, who had previously undergone sterilization with tubal ligation, participated in intrauterine pressure recordings at one of the first 3 days of bleeding of two menstrual cycles. Intravenous bolus injections of 10 pmol/kg body weight of vasopressin (Period 1) and of 50 pmol/kg body weight of oxytocin (Period 2) were given 1 h before and 1, 2 and 4 h after oral administration of 0 (placebo), 25, 75 or 200 mg of SR 49059. The area between the recording curve and zero level of intrauterine pressure (AUC) was calculated. Vital signs as well as urine and plasma safety parameters were measured. The plasma concentrations of oxytocin, vasopressin and the study drug were also estimated. RESULTS: The plasma concentrations of SR 49059 appeared to be dose related, with mean maximal values of 62.0, 163.7 and 468.0 ng/ml in the 25, 75 and 200 mg dose groups, respectively, in Period 1 with vasopressin and 34.4, 116.7 and 418.0 ng/mL, respectively, in Period 2 with oxytocin. Tmax was observed at about 1 h. The cumulative AUC over 50 min after vasopressin injection per se was significantly higher than that after oxytocin in spite of a five times lower dose and lower plasma concentrations. Pretreatment by SR 49059 caused a dose-related reduction in AUCs for vasopressin, whereas no such effect was seen for oxytocin. With vasopressin as an agonist, a lower diastolic blood pressure was observed in all SR 49059 treatment groups, but not with oxytocin. CONCLUSIONS: The much higher potency of vasopressin compared with oxytocin on uterine activity in non-pregnant women at menstruation was confirmed. SR 49059 dose-dependently inhibits vasopressin-induced contractions, whereas such an effect was not seen with the present doses of SR 49059 and oxytocin. A marked reduction by SR 49059 of diastolic blood pressure after vasopressin injection was observed, indicating an inhibition by this compound of vascular vasopressin receptors.

Administration, Oral↗

Vasopressin-induced intracellular Ca2+ increase in isolated rat supraoptic cells.

1. The intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]1) was monitored in single magnocellular neurones freshly isolated from rat supraoptic nucleus. Application of 100 nM vasopressin increased [Ca2+]1. Two types of [Ca2+]1 responses were observed: (i) a transient response, displayed by 86% of the vasopressin-sensitive neurones, and (ii) a sustained response displayed by 14% of the vasopressin-sensitive neurones. 2. Among responding neurones, 52% were vasopressin sensitive, 44% were oxytocin sensitive and 4% were sensitive to both peptides. 3. Responses to vasopressin were dose dependent, showed a progressive desensitization after successive applications, were specifically blocked by the V1a vasopressin receptor antagonist, SR 49059, and were unaffected by the oxytocin receptor antagonist, d(CH2)5OVT. 4. Vasopressin responses were completely suppressed by the removal of external Ca2+. 5. The intracellular Ca2+ mobilizers, caffeine and tBuBHQ, did not affect resting or vasopressin-induced [Ca2+]1 changes. Thapsigargin (200 nM) on its own evoked an increase in [Ca2+]1, and reduced the [Ca2+]1 increase evoked by vasopressin by 52%, suggesting that thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ stores are partially involved in the vasopressin response. 6. Immunocytochemical identification revealed that vasopressin-responding neurones synthesize vasopressin whereas oxytocin-responding neurones synthesize oxytocin. 7. In conclusion, vasopressin- (partially external Ca2+ dependent) and oxytocin (totally external Ca2+ independent)-induced [Ca2+]1 changes are mediated by specific receptors. In addition, vasopressin and oxytocin neurones are specifically autoregulated by their own peptides.

Animals↗

The adrenergic system and the release and pressor action of vasopressin.

We studied the effect of various adrenergic components on vasopressin in groups of anephric rats. Pharmacological interventions included alpha 1-, alpha 2-, and beta-adrenergic receptor blockade and infusions of sodium nitroprusside to achieve a baseline blood pressure fall similar to that obtained by alpha 1-blockade, followed by hypertonic saline infusion to stimulate vasopressin release and administration of a specific V1 vascular vasopressin inhibitor to test the degree of blood pressure dependency on vasopressin. The combined hypotensive and osmolar stimuli of nitroprusside followed by hypertonic saline led to the highest level of plasma vasopressin (104 +/- 17 pg/ml, p less than 0.01) but only a 7 +/- 1 mm Hg fall in blood pressure in response to the vasopressin inhibitor. Rats subjected to alpha 1-blockade and saline infusion had the largest blood pressure reduction in response to the vasopressin inhibitor (43 +/- 5 mm Hg, p less than 0.001), despite a modest rise in vasopressin levels (18 +/- 2 pg/ml). Other pharmacological maneuvers produced intermediate responses in terms of vasopressin release and blood pressure response to the vasopressin inhibitor. There was no correlation between vasopressin levels achieved by each maneuver and the magnitude of blood pressure reduction in response to the vasopressin inhibitor. We conclude that 1) plasma levels of vasopressin under these conditions do not permit an accurate estimate of the magnitude of its pressor contribution to the maintenance of a given blood pressure level, which can be demonstrated only by the depressor response to a vasopressin inhibitor.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists↗

Regulation of vasopressin action by prostaglandins. Evidence for prostaglandin synthesis in the rabbit cortical collecting tubule.

The present studies examined whether vasopressin increases prostaglandin biosynthesis in isolated rabbit cortical collecting tubules (CCT) and whether endogenous prostaglandin biosynthesis plays a role in modulating the response of this nephron segment to vasopressin. Three groups of studies were performed. In the first group, CCT and proximal straight tubules (PST) were incubated with [(3)H]arachidonic acid, and metabolites were separated and identified using silica gel thin-layer chromatography. CCT were capable of producing all of the major prostaglandins (PG) (PGE(2) > thromboxane B(2)[TxB(2)] > PGF(2alpha) > PGI(2)). PST produced significantly lesser quantities of these lipids. In the second group, radiolabeled arachidonic acid was incorporated into the phospholipid pool of both CCT and PST, vasopressin was added to the incubation medium, and metabolities were separated and identified as above. Vasopressin stimulated the release of all of the major prostaglandins in CCT but had no effect on PST. PGE release into the incubation medium, as assessed by a radioreceptor assay, increased 108%, and a vasopressin analogue, 1-desamino-8-d-arginine vasopressin, had a quantitatively similar effect. In the third group, a submaximal dose of vasopressin was administered to isolated, perfused CCT studied in the presence and absence of indomethacin to assess whether endogenous prostaglandins play a role in modulating the antidiuretic response to vasopressin. Studies were performed in rabbits on a normal diet and in desoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)- or KCl-loaded animals. In the state of mineralocorticoid excess, basal prostaglandin synthesis was 63% lower, and vasopressin-stimulated prostaglandin synthesis 76% lower, than the synthesis observed in rabbits on a normal diet. Cyclooxygenase inhibition exposed a significant hydroosmotic response to a submaximal dose of vasopressin in CCT from DOCA- or KCl-loaded animals. With arachidonic acid in the bath, the same dose of vasopressin failed to elicit a hydroosmotic response in CCT from rabbits on a normal diet even in the presence of a cyclooxygenase inhibitor. However, removal of exogenous arachidonic acid, with a consequently lower rate of prostaglandin synthesis, allowed the cyclooxygenase inhibitor to enhance the hydroosmotic response to vasopressin in these tubules.We conclude from these studies that the rabbit CCT has the capacity to synthesize all of the major prostaglandins and that the rate of synthesis of these lipids is enhanced by vasopessin. Prostaglandin synthesis by the CCT is postulated to modulate the antidiuretic action of vasopressin via a closed feedback loop. The effectiveness of this feedback regulation is dependent upon the mineralocorticoid status of the animal, which determines the level of basal and vasopressin-stimulated prostaglandin synthesis by the CCT.

Animals↗