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Endogenous digitalis-like compounds in essential and experimental hypertension
M A Devynck1, M G Pernollet, P Meyer
1Dept of Pharmacology, INSERM U7, Hôp Necker, Paris, France.
International Journal of Radiation Applications and Instrumentation. Part B, Nuclear Medicine and Biology
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Elevated levels of endogenous digitalis-like compounds in plasma are linked to increased blood pressure in humans and rats. These compounds, interacting with digoxin antibodies, may play a role in hypertension and sodium homeostasis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Endocrinology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Endogenous digitalis-like compounds (EDLCs) are hypothesized to influence sodium and water balance.
- Investigating EDLCs is crucial for understanding blood pressure regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the presence and levels of digoxin-like compounds in human and rat plasma.
- To correlate these levels with blood pressure and sodium-related parameters.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of digoxin-equivalents in plasma using digoxin antibodies.
- Assays for ouabain binding to erythrocyte Na+ pumps and renal Na+,K+-ATPase activity.
- Studies in human subjects with hypertension and end-stage renal failure, and in rat models of hypertension.
Main Results:
- Plasma digoxin-equivalents were significantly higher in patients with essential hypertension and end-stage renal failure compared to controls.
- Elevated levels were also observed in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and rats with experimental hypertension.
- Plasma immunoreactivity correlated positively with blood pressure and negatively with renal Na+,K+-ATPase activity.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the presence of cardioactive steroid-like compounds in plasma, associated with elevated blood pressure.
- These findings suggest a potential role for EDLCs in the pathophysiology of hypertension.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms and clinical implications of these compounds.