PLASMA ADENOSINE CONCENTRATIONS ARE ELEVATED IN DAHL SALT-SENSITIVE RATS

We measured plasma levels of adenosine in Dahl salt-sensitive rats (DS ) and Dahl salt-resistant rats (DR) to examine the potential role of a denosine in cardiovascular regulation in this type of hypertension. Pl asma adenosine concentrations were significantly higher in DS than in DR. The NaCl content in the diet did not affect plasma adenosine conce ntration in either DS or DR. Significant positive correlation was foun d between adenosine concentrations and systolic blood pressure when th e data for DS and DR were analyzed together. These results suggest tha t adenosine may play an important role in the pathophysiology of hyper tension in DS.