Effect of varying the composition of CSF on urinary excretion in the conscious rat

The effect of 4 h intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) infusion of various solutions on the renal excretion of Na and K and urinary flow rate was examined in conscious unrestrained rats not water-loaded. I.c.v. infusion of iso- or hypo-osmotic solutions with low [Na] induced a diuresis but did not alter renal excretion of Na or K. I.c.v. infusion of hyperosmotic solutions with normal or elevated [Na] induced a natriuresis and kaliuresis. Hyperosmotic mannitol solutions caused a diuresis but hyperosmotic NaCl or sucrose solutions caused a diuresis only when the rats drank water and/or sodium solution during the infusion period. I.c.v. infusion of hyperosmotic NaCl but not hyperosmotic mannitol increased blood pressure. The results are consistent with the involvement of cerebral osmosensors in the control of urinary excretion of Na and K, and of cerebral Na sensors in the control of urinary flow rate. Increased blood pressure, as occurred during i.c.v. infusion of hyperosmotic NaCl, may also contribute to the increased excretion of Na and K.