Influence of prostaglandin E1 on cerebral mechanisms involved in the control of fluid balance.

The effects of infusions of PGE1 (30 ng/kg min-1) into the lateral cerebral ventricle were studied in the conscious, hydrated goat. The infusions caused release of antidiuretic hormone and increased renal sodium excretion. When PGE1 was infused together with hypertonic NaCl these effects became markedly enhanced and the infusion also induced drinking and a rise in the arterial blood pressure. Much weaker effects were obtained by the infusion of the hypertonic NaCl alone. This sodium-PGE1 interaction is discussed in relation to previously observed, central sodium-angiotensin II interaction. A more pronounced drinking effect was obtained in response to the intraventricular infusion of PGE1 + angiotensin II, than to the infusion of either substance separately. The PGE1 administered into the lateral cerebral ventricle did not induce any febrile response.