Cardiovascular effects of microinjection of adenosine into the nucleus tractus solitarius.

Rats were anesthetized with urethane and limited occipital craniotomy was conducted to expose the caudal medulla in the region of the obex. Microinjections of adenosine were made into the nucleus tractus solitarius and heart rate and blood pressure responses recorded. Adenosine produced dose-related decreases in blood pressure and heart rate. The data indicate that adenosine may play a neuromodulatory role in central cardiovascular control areas.