Vasopressin Regulation and Renal Fluid and Electrolyte Handling in Rat Models of Acute and Chronic alcohol Exposure
Abstract
Fluid and electrolyte balance appears to be affected differently at different stages of alcohol use. In rat models of acute and chronic alcohol exposure and alcohol withdrawal, we systematically elucidated the role of vasopressin, an important hormone in body fluid regulation, in the physiological response to alcohol. Changes in vasopressin circulating levels do not account for altered fluid handling with alcohol exposure. Rather, alcohol-induced changes in renal responsiveness to vasopressin appear to be responsible for the pattern of diuresis, impaired water excretion, and recovery in the different phases of alcohol exposure. The primary mechanisms behind this is the up and down regulation of renal vasopressin V2 receptors involved with renal tubular water reabsorption. In addition, alcohol exposure disrupts the relationships between vasopressin synthesis, brain vasopressin receptors, and blood toxicity, and thus, may affect the ability to respond to physiologic stimuli. The results of this research contribute to a better understanding of alcohol effects on vasopressin regulation of fluid handling, and should be used to implement better strategies for management of fluid and electrolyte imbalance associated with alcohol use.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA436890
Entities
People
- Catherine F. Uyehara
Organizations
- Tripler Army Medical Center