Response of the rabbit vas deferens in vivo to vasoactive drugs

We evaluated the smooth muscle response to the systemic administration of various vasoactive drugs and hormones in vivo in the rabbit vas deferens. Norepinephrine, epinephrine, and urecholine caused contractions of the vas deferens that caused it to shorten and thicken. Isuprel inhibited contractions that were initiated by obstruction of the vas deferens. Catecholamine depletion from guanethidine caused dilation of the vas deferens, increased intraluminal pressures spontaneous contractions, and a spermpacked lumen. The vas deferens in the immature rabbit showed normal response to norepinephrine and obstruction. Estrogen administration prevented the normal dilation and increased peristalsis observed with obstruction.