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Urotensin-II: a novel systemic hypertensive factor in the cat

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Abstract

Urotensin-II, a potent mammalian vasoconstrictor, may play a role in the etiology of essential hypertension. However, a species suitable for assessing such a role, one where a “classical” systemic hypertensive response (increase in mean blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance) is observed following bolus i.v. urotensin-II administration, has yet to be identified. The present study demonstrates that the cat may represent such a species since urotensin-II potently (pEC50s 9.68±0.24–8.73±0.08) and efficaciously (Emax 73±15%–205±21% KCl) constricts all feline isolated arteries studied (aortae, renal, femoral, carotid, and mesenteric conduit/resistance). Accordingly, exogenous urotensin-II (1 nmol/kg, i.v.) effectively doubles both mean blood pressure (from 99±14 to 183±15 mmHg) and systemic vascular resistance (from 0.36±0.12 to 0.86±0.20 mmHg/ml/min) in the anaesthetized cat (without altering heart rate or stroke volume). Thus, in view of these profound contractile effects, the cat could be suitable for determining the effects of urotensin-II receptor antagonism on cardiovascular homeostasis in both normal and diseased states.

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Correspondence to David J. Behm.

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Behm, D.J., Doe, C.P.A., Johns, D.G. et al. Urotensin-II: a novel systemic hypertensive factor in the cat. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Arch Pharmacol 369, 274–280 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00210-004-0873-1

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