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Endogenous neuropeptide Y regulates thyroid blood flow
M Michalkiewicz1, L J Huffman, M Dey
1Department of Physiology, West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown 26506.
The American Journal of Physiology
|May 1, 1993
Summary
Endogenous Neuropeptide Y (NPY) regulates thyroid blood flow (BF) in normal rats. Blocking NPY with antiserum increased thyroid BF and altered organ BF in hyperthyroid rats, suggesting NPY
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Physiology
- Thyroid Research
Background:
- Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a neurotransmitter found in thyroid sympathetic nerve fibers.
- The role of endogenous NPY in regulating thyroid function and blood flow remains to be fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the involvement of endogenous NPY in the regulation of thyroid function and blood flow (BF).
- To assess the impact of NPY antiserum on thyroidal and organ-specific BF in normal and hyperthyroid rat models.
Main Methods:
- Production and characterization of a rabbit NPY antiserum.
- Administration of NPY antiserum, normal rabbit serum, or saline to anesthetized normal and hyperthyroid rats.
- Measurement of plasma thyroxine, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and organ blood flow (BF) via intravenous administration.
Main Results:
- NPY antiserum administration significantly increased thyroidal BF in normal rats.
- In hyperthyroid rats, NPY antiserum reversed the decrease in thyroid BF and increased duodenal and testicular BF.
- No significant effects on plasma thyroxine, TSH, or arterial blood pressure were observed.
Conclusions:
- Endogenous NPY plays a significant role in regulating thyroid blood flow in normal physiological conditions.
- NPY is implicated in the pathophysiological adjustments of specific organs, such as the thyroid, duodenum, and testes, during hyperthyroidism.