The Role of Endorphins in the Pathophysiology of Hemorrhagic and Endotoxic Shock in the Subhuman Primate.
Abstract
In order to investigate the role of endorphins (short for endogenous morphine-like substances) in the pathophysiology of cardivascular depression in primate shock we subjected cynomulgus monkeys to hemorrhage or endotoxemia. Blockade of opiate receptors with naloxone improved cardiovascular performance(mean arterial pressure and left ventricular contractility) and survival in both endotoxic and hemorrhagic shock--provided pH and temperature were maintained. Physiological antagonism of endorphins with thyrotropin-releasing hormone resulted in improved cardiovascular function in both forms of shock and increased survival in hemorrhage. Intact adrenal glands and cardiac autonomic innervation are necessary for naloxone's full effects to obtain, at least in the dog. Central nervous system injection of an endorphin produced bradycardia and hypotension which were reversed by naloxone, but central injection of naloxone did not reverse hemorrhagic shock in the monkey. Opiates failed to release histamine in vivo (rat) and in vitro (rat peritoneal mast cells). The mechanisms of endorphin-mediated cardiovascular dysfunction in shock and its reversal by naloxone are central and not peripheral and involve central nervous system centers controlling autonomic nervous system function or integration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA159810
Entities
People
- C. V. Gisolfi
- D. G. Reynolds
- N. J. Gurll
- T. Vargish
Organizations
- University of Iowa