The effect of perivascular denervation on endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine.

We have examined the effect of perivascular denervation on the ability of acetylcholine to produce endothelium-dependent relaxation in the isolated perfused mesenteric arterial bed. Treatment with capsaicin prevented the development of substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide containing perivascular nerve fibres. Treatment with 6-hydroxydopamine prevented the development of catecholaminergic perivascular nerve fibres. In the arterial beds from capsaicin treated rats there was a depression of the ability of Acetylcholine to produce endothelium dependent relaxation. No change in endothelium-dependent relaxation to ACh was found in 6-hydroxydopamine treated rats.