Natriuresis induced by localized perfusion within the third cerebral ventricle of sheep

Push-pull perfusion was performed at four different sites in the third cerebral ventricle of conscious sheep. The recovery of the infused solution was 75-90%, suggesting a localized change in the ionic composition and osmolality restricted to a relatively small area in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Sodium and potassium excretion and urine flow were studied before, during, and after perfusion of 200, 150, and 100 mM Na-CSF. Localized perfusion in the anterior dorsal third ventricle (AD3V) of 200 mM Na-CSF caused an increase in sodium and potassium excretion, in urine flow, and a decrease in free water clearance. Perfusion of 200 mM Na-CSF at the other three perfusion sites, i.e., anterior ventral third ventricle, posterior dorsal third ventricle, and posterior ventral third ventricle, did not influence sodium excretion and urine flow. Perfusions with 150 and 100 mM Na-CSF did not cause any change in sodium, potassium excretion, or urine flow at any of the four perfusion sites. These results suggest that sensors sensitive to changes of sodium concentration are located close to the ventricular surface in the anterior dorsal part of the third cerebral ventricle. When stimulated with increased sodium concentration they will initiate increased sodium excretion.