Endothelium-dependent and -independent mechanisms of action of acetylcholine in monkey and dog isolated arteries.

In helical strips of monkey coronary and mesenteric arteries and dog mesenteric arteries partially contracted with prostaglandin (PG)F2 alpha, the mechanism of action of acetylcholine (ACh) has been analyzed by the use of pharmacological antagonists and by the endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF) bioassay and the 6-keto PGF1 alpha radioimmunoassay. In conclusion, ACh releases vasodilator substance(s) from endothelium (EDRF) and also PGs from subendothelial tissues. Vasoconstrictor PGs appear to counteract the dilator action of EDRF in monkey coronary arteries, whereas vasodilator PG, possibly PGI2, appears to facilitate the relaxation caused by EDRF in monkey and dog mesenteric arteries.