Effects of EDTA and verapamil on renin release in dogs

EDTA or verapamil was infused into the renal artery of the anesthetized dog, and the effects on renin release and renal function were examined in an attempt to elucidate the role and action site of calcium ion in the renin secretory system. Both EDTA (25 mg/min) and verapamil (50 micrograms/min) increased RSR and RBF with a concomitant increase of urine flow, although there was no change in systemic arterial pressure. An infusion of verapamil in combination with ouabain produced a significant increase in RBF which was similar to that seen with verapamil alone. Urine flow and urinary excretion of electrolytes were also increased, but these changes did not differ from those seen with ouabain infusion alone. Ouabain alone did not affect RSR, but its infusion combined with verapamil resulted in a significant increase in RSR. Therefore, the effects of EDTA and verapamil on renin release may reflect the action of both drugs on the vascular component of the juxtaglomerular apparatus. If a change in calcium movement similar to the one in vascular smooth muscle occurs in the juxtaglomerular cells, the altered concentration of calcium may be considered to induce, in part, the stimulation of renin release by EDTA or verapamil.