Effect of stimulating right atrial receptors on urine flow in the dog

1. Complex unencapsulated nerve endings (right atrial receptors) have previously been found in the endocardium of the right atrial appendage and the junction between the superior vena cava and the right atrium.2. Distension of balloons located in the right atrial appendage and at the junction between the superior vena cava and the right atrium resulted in an increase in urine flow. This diuresis was accompanied by a small increase in the excretion of sodium.3. Cooling the right cervical vagus caused a reduction in the response to distension of the right atrial appendage.4. It is concluded that stimulation of right atrial receptors by the distension of balloons located in the right atrial appendage and at the junction between the right atrium and the superior vena cava results in a reflex increase in urine flow.