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Endothelin involvement in respiratory centre activity.
M Albertini1, C L Lafortuna, B Ciminaghi
1Dipartimento di Patologia Animale, Istituto di Tecnologie Biomediche Avanzate del CNR, Milano, Italy. maralbe@mailserver.unimi.it
Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids
|December 1, 2001
Summary
Blocking endothelin (ET) receptors with bosentan improved respiratory mechanics and altered breathing patterns in pigs. This suggests ET plays a role in both the mechanical and neural control of respiration.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Endothelin (ET) is implicated in cardiovascular regulation.
- The role of ET in respiratory homeostasis is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of ET receptor blockade on respiratory mechanics and control.
- To elucidate the role of ET in maintaining respiratory homeostasis.
Main Methods:
- Seven anesthetized, spontaneously breathing pigs were administered bosentan (ET(A) and ET(B) receptor antagonist).
- Respiratory mechanics, diaphragmatic electromyography, and arterial blood gases were monitored for 180 minutes.
Main Results:
- Bosentan significantly increased respiratory system compliance and decreased resistance.
- Tidal volume increased, while respiratory frequency decreased, without altering overall ventilation or blood gas levels.
- Diaphragmatic activity decreased, and both inspiratory and expiratory times increased, suggesting central respiratory modulation.
Conclusions:
- ET receptor blockade improves respiratory system mechanics in pigs.
- ET appears to influence both peripheral and central respiratory control mechanisms.
- ET receptor antagonism demonstrates a significant role for endothelin in respiratory homeostasis.