Micropuncture localization of the natriuretic effect of interleukin 1

Interleukin 1 (IL-1) has been demonstrated to elicit an increase in renal sodium excretion. This effect occurs in the absence of any increase in the filtered load of sodium, raising the possibility of an IL-1-mediated decrease in tubule sodium reabsorption. To localize the nephron segment(s) responsible for the natriuretic effect of IL-1, we performed micropuncture experiments on rats. Intravenous IL-1 administration caused a marked increase in sodium excretion that was not accompanied by changes in glomerular filtration rate or systemic blood pressure. Single-nephron glomerular filtration rate and fractional and absolute delivery of sodium to the late proximal and mid-distal tubule were not affected by IL-1. Fractional delivery of sodium to the early and late papillary collecting duct, however, was significantly enhanced by IL-1 administration. Sodium reabsorption was inhibited along the papillary collecting duct. These findings demonstrate that the natriuretic effect of IL-1 is due, at least in part, to inhibition of collecting duct sodium reabsorption.