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Training Rats to Voluntarily Dive Underwater: Investigations of the Mammalian Diving Response
Published on: November 12, 2014
B-type natriuretic peptide secretion following scuba diving
Claudio Passino1, Enrico Franzino, Alberto Giannoni
1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Fondazione G Monasterio, Pisa, Italy. passino@ifc.cnr.it
Biomarkers in Medicine
|April 9, 2011
Summary
Scuba diving causes a slight increase in B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) fragments and norepinephrine. This neurohormonal response is linked to adrenergic activation and cardiac changes during the dive.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Environmental Medicine
Background:
- The B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) precursor releases various peptide fragments, including BNP, aminoterminal pro-BNP, and pro-BNP.
- Scuba diving involves significant physiological stress, potentially impacting neurohormonal systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute neurohormonal effects of a scuba dive.
- To specifically examine changes in plasma concentrations of BNP precursor fragments following a dive.
Main Methods:
- 12 healthy scuba divers underwent a 15-m saltwater dive for 30 minutes.
- Plasma samples were collected pre- and post-dive to measure BNP fragments and catecholamines.
- Continuous electrocardiography monitored cardiac activity throughout the protocol.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in plasma concentrations of BNP, aminoterminal pro-BNP, and pro-BNP were observed post-dive.
- Norepinephrine levels also significantly increased, correlating with BNP fragment elevations.
- No significant changes were noted in total plasma proteins, hematocrit, or osmolality.
- Persistent sinus tachycardia was detected during the dive.
Conclusions:
- A 15-m scuba dive triggers a mild, acute release of BNP precursor fragments.
- This release is likely mediated by adrenergic activation and cardiac chamber dilation.
- The findings suggest a neurohormonal response to the physiological demands of scuba diving.
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