Dopaminergic mediation of the diuretic and natriuretic effects of ANF in the rat

Abstract Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) increases sodium (Na + ) and water excretion 8–10 fold on repeated administration to anesthetized rats. SCH-23390 (80 μg/kg i.v.) and R-sulpiride (80 μg/kg i.v.), selective antagonists of dopamine receptors in the renal vasculature, inhibited diuresis and natriuresis induced by AP III and dopamine. These findings suggest that ANF exerts its effects on renal Na + and water handling via a dopaminergic mechanism; however, changes in intrarenal hemodynamics secondary to dopamine receptor blockade may attenuate the actions of ANF.