Abstract
1. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) has been reported to enhance diuresis and natriuresis in anaesthetized rats although it is a potent renal vasoconstrictor in vitro in vivo in several species. Therefore, we have investigated anaesthetized rats to see whether reduction in renal blood flow (RBF) and enhancement of diuresis and natriuresis can occur concomitantly, and how diuresis and natriuresis might be enhanced despite reduced RBF. 2. Systemic or intrarenal NPY infusion (0.03-3 micrograms kg-1 min-1) had only a small effect on mean arterial pressure (maximal increase 15-20 mmHg) and heart rate (maximal decrease 30 beats min-1) but dose-dependently reduced RBF (maximal peak reduction 3 ml min-1) Endogenous creatinine clearance was not significantly altered. 3. In anaesthetized rats systemic infusion of 1 or 3 micrograms kg-1 min-1 NPY enhanced urine formation and sodium and calcium excretion by a maximum of 110, 110 and 45%, respectively, but did not alter potassium excretion. Enhancement of diuresis was also detectable in conscious rats. 4. The diuretic and natriuretic effects of systemically infused NPY were at least partly maintained in rats with decapsulated kidneys and in rats where NPY-induced increase of renal perfusion pressure was excluded mechanically by an adjustable clamp placed on the abdominal aorta. 5. Intrarenal infusion of 0.3 or 1 microgram kg-1 min-1 NPY reduced RBF to a greater extent than systemic infusion (maximal peak reduction 4 ml min-1) but caused a smaller enhancement or even a reduction of urine formation and sodium excretion. 6. We conclude that systemic infusion of NPY reduces RBF by a direct effect on the renal vasculature. Systemic NPY infusion enhances urine formation and sodium and calcium excretion. This occurs independently (at least in part) of pressure natriuresis by formation and/or release of an extrarenal factor which might act on distal tubules and/or collecting ducts.