NATRIURETIC AND HYPOTENSIVE EFFECTS OF α‐HUMAN ATRIAL NATRIURETIC POLYPEPTIDE IN ANAESTHETIZED DOCA‐SALT HYPERTENSIVE RATS

Abstract
1. Both natriuretic and hyportensive effects of α‐human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (α‐hANP) were investigated in anaesthetized DOCA‐salt hypertensive rats and control rats. 2. An intravenous injection of two doses (0.3 and 3.0 μg/kg body weight) of α‐hANP produced a rapid and marked increase in natriuresis and fall in blood pressure in DOCA‐salt rats. 3. Natriuretic and hypotensive effects of α‐hANP in DOCA‐salt rats were significantly greater than those in the control rats. 4. It is suggested that DOCA‐salt rats may have an enhanced natriuretic and hypotensive responsiveness to α‐hANP.