Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Mesenteric Artery Contraction and Relaxation Studies Using Automated Wire Myography
Published on: September 22, 2011
Adrenal medulla as a mediator of diet-induced hypertension
L N Kaufman1, H Y Li, M M Peterson
1Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
Abstract:
Male Sprague-Dawley rats fed either a high-fat or glucose-enriched diet for 10 wk developed higher blood pressure (BP) and higher urinary catecholamine excretion than rats fed a control diet. After 10 wk of diet treatment, systolic BP was 164 +/- 3, 156 +/- 2, and 145 +/- 4 mmHg in rats fed the high-fat, glucose, and control diets, respectively (P < 0.02 vs. control). During weeks 7-9 of diet treatment, excretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine was increased in hypertensive rats (those fed the high-fat or glucose diet) when compared with rats fed the control diet (P < 0.001). The purpose of this study was to determine whether the hypertensive response to nutrients could be prevented by prior surgical removal of the adrenal medulla. Adrenal demedullation nearly abolished epinephrine excretion, attenuated norepinephrine excretion, and completely blocked the hypertensive response to dietary fat and glucose. These findings suggest that adrenal medullary catecholamines play a role in the hypertensive response to nutrients.
Related Concept Videos
Hormonal Regulation
Hormones of the Adrenal Glands
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosterone...
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure
Antihypertensive Drugs: Action of β1 Blockers
Hormonal Regulation of Blood Pressure
Epinephrine and Norepinephrine
The adrenal medulla releases epinephrine and norepinephrine, catecholamines that enhance and extend the sympathetic or "fight or flight" physiological response. These hormones escalate heart rate and the force of contraction while...
Hypertension II: Pathophysiology

