Baroreceptor reflex in the rat after converting enzyme inhibition or angiotensin receptor blockade

1. One component of baroreflex responsiveness was quantitated in conscious rats using the heart rate response to a pressor injection of phenylephrine. 2. Endogenous angiotensin and its effectiveness were manipulated by sodium deprivation, converting enzyme inhibition and infusion of an angiotensin analogue. None of these manoeuvres changed the observed reflex responsiveness. 3. We conclude that endogenous angiotensin has no influence on the component of baroreceptor function that is described by the slope of the arterial pressure-heart rate relationship.