NaCl modulates captopril effects on glomerular prostaglandin synthesis and glomerular filtration

Captopril stimulates glomerular prostaglandin (PG) synthesis and increases glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in Na-repleted rats, whereas, in Na-depleted rats, it fails to stimulate PG synthesis and decreases GFR. In the present work the influence of chronic and acute NaCl loading on PG synthesis and renal function was studied in Na-depleted rats receiving captopril (LNC rats). Glomerular PGE2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha were not increased in LNC rats and were significantly lower than in Na-depleted rats (LN). Na repletion, while continuing captopril, increased PG synthesis above control levels. Addition of captopril in vitro to the incubation medium stimulated PGE2 synthesis in glomeruli of control rats, whereas it depressed it in LN rats. Acute loading with NaCl in LNC rats increased inulin and PAH clearances to values significantly greater than in control rats and similar to those of normal rats receiving captopril. Comparable volume loading with isotonic mannitol or 3% albumin increased inulin and PAH clearances only to control values. The specific effect of NaCl in acute loading was prevented by cyclooxygenase inhibition and was not mediated by increased systemic blood pressure. The results provide evidence that the effects of captopril on glomerular PG synthesis and renal function depend on the state of Na balance.