MULTIPLE SHORT-TERM EFFECTS OF LEAD ON THE RENIN-ANGIOTENSIN SYSTEM

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 97  (2) , 251-263
Abstract
Pb (3 mg/kg i.v.) sharply raises PRA [plasma renin activity] in dogs. Here, the short-term effects of the same dose of Pb on renin secretion, hepatic removal of renin and arterial AII [angiotensin II] levels were measured in anesthetized dogs. Despite large increases in PRA in all 9 Pb-treated dogs, renin secretion increased in only 3 out of 9 Pb-treated animals (those with the lowest baseline renin secretion). Hepatic extraction of renin was eliminated by Pb, and so total hepatic removal of renin became zero by 2 or 3 h after Pb administration. Despite large increases in PRA, AII levels did not rise after Pb. The linear relationship of AII to PRA seen in animals not treated with Pb was changed, so that after Pb, AII levels were disproportionately low for the corresponding level of PRA. Pb may increase renin secretion in animals otherwise unstimulated to secrete, but that the major mechanism for the short-term rise in PRA after Pb is elimination of hepatic removal of renin; Pb prevents AII from rising proportionately with PRA, presumably by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme.