Cardiovascular Effects of SK&F 64139, a PNMT Inhibitor, in Rats

PNMT catalyzes NE to Ep in the final steps of catecholamine synthesis. Pendleton et al. (1980) have reported that SK&F 64139 (SKF) is a potent and reversible inhibitor of PNMT (1). Because of the ability of SKF to cross the blood brain barrier (1), this compound lowers Ep levels both in the adrenal gland and in the CNS. The BP lowering effect of SKF was accompanied with a marked decrease in central PNMT activity. This further supports the interpretation that this is its main hypotensive mechanism (2). The present study was undertaken to elucidate the effects of SKF on BP, HR and adrenal catecholamine contents in rats. In order to elucidate the mechanism of cardiovascular effects induced by SKF, ICNA was also determined.