Urocortin 2 sustains haemodynamic and renal function during introduction of beta-blockade in experimental heart failure.

OBJECTIVES

The challenge in management of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is relieving congestion and improving symptoms while preserving renal and systemic perfusion at a level that can tolerate introduction of drugs such as beta-blockers which may have adverse effects acutely yet have proven benefit in the longer term. Urocortin 2 (Ucn2) is a novel peptide with therapeutic potential in heart failure. The present study investigated the effects of combined Ucn2 and beta-blockade in heart failure.

METHODS

Ucn2 and metoprolol were administered for 3 h, separately and together, in eight sheep with pacing-induced congestive heart failure.

RESULTS

Compared with time-matched controls, metoprolol significantly reduced heart rate (HR), left ventricular contractility, cardiac output (CO) and mean arterial pressure (MAP), together with increases in peripheral resistance and left atrial pressure (LAP). In contrast, Ucn2 elevated HR, contractility, CO and MAP, and decreased peripheral resistance and LAP. Combined Ucn2 + metoprolol produced intermediate haemodynamic effects closer to those observed with Ucn2 than with beta-blockade. All three active treatment regimes decreased plasma renin activity, whereas only Ucn2 and Ucn2 + metoprolol significantly reduced plasma aldosterone. Compared with metoprolol alone (which tended to reduce urine output and creatinine excretion/clearance), Ucn2 + metoprolol increased urine volume, sodium and creatinine excretion and clearance.

CONCLUSION

Ucn2 coupled with beta-blockade in experimental heart failure improves CO and MAP, sustains HR, reduces peripheral resistance, LAP and aldosterone and augments renal function. These results suggest a role for Ucn2 as a short-term parenteral therapy in the initial stages of managing ADHF that improves tolerance to introduction of beta-blockers.