This study examines the role of endogenous dopamine (DA) for the regulation of renal tubular sodium (Na) transport. The enzyme L-amino acid decarboxylase (L-AADC) that converts L-dopa to DA has been localized to the proximal tubule cells with immunocytochemistry. Locally formed DA will inhibit the activity of Na-K-ATPase, the enzyme that yields energy to active Na transport. The effect is of physiological importance during high salt diet. The phosphoprotein DARPP-32, a DA1 receptor associated third messenger is abundant in the medullary thick ascending limb of Henle (mTAL). DARPP-32 is phosphorylated after activation of DA1 receptors. DARPP-32 is in its phosphorylated form a potent phosphatase inhibitor. Activation of the DA1 receptor in mTAL with the DA1 agonist SKF 82526 causes dose-dependent inhibition of Na-K-ATPase activity. The effect involves activation of cAMP protein kinase. It is likely that this effect is potentiated by DARPP-32.