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Mechanism of the antidiuretic effect associated with interruption of parasympathetic pathways

R W Schrier, T Berl

    The Journal of Clinical Investigation
    |October 1, 1972
    PubMed

    Insights

    Parasympathetic nervous system involvement in water excretion was studied. Vagotomy caused antidiuresis in normal dogs by increasing vasopressin release, but not in hypophysectomized dogs, indicating parasympathetic afferent pathway mediation.

    Area of Science:

    • Nephrology
    • Physiology
    • Endocrinology

    Background:

    • The parasympathetic nervous system's role in regulating renal solute-free water excretion is not fully understood.
    • Investigating this mechanism is crucial for comprehending water balance and kidney function.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To elucidate the mechanism by which the parasympathetic nervous system influences renal solute-free water excretion.
    • To determine if parasympathetic pathways mediate antidiuretic effects through vasopressin release.

    Main Methods:

    • Bilateral cervical vagotomy was performed on anesthetized normal and hypophysectomized dogs during water diuresis.
    • Renal hemodynamics, glomerular filtration rate, and electrolyte excretion were monitored.
    • Pharmacological blockade of parasympathetic efferent pathways was also employed.

    Main Results:

    • Cervical vagotomy significantly decreased free-water clearance and increased urinary osmolality in normal dogs, indicating an antidiuretic effect.
    • This antidiuresis was not linked to changes in cardiac output, renal perfusion, or renal nerves.
    • In hypophysectomized dogs, vagotomy did not alter free-water clearance or urinary osmolality, suggesting a dependence on pituitary hormones.

    Conclusions:

    • The antidiuretic effect of cervical vagotomy is mediated by the interruption of parasympathetic afferent pathways.
    • This effect is driven by an increased endogenous release of vasopressin.
    • The findings highlight the significant role of parasympathetic signaling in regulating water balance, independent of renal nerves.

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