The effect of PGI2 on canine renal function and hemodynamics.

The effect of prostaglandin I2 (prostacyclin) on renal and intrarenal hemodynamics and function was studied in mongrel dogs to elucidate the role of this novel prostaglandin in renal physiology. Starting at a dose of 10(-8) g/kg/min, PGI2 decreased renal vascular resistance and redistributed the blood flow away from the outer cortex (zone 1) and towards the juxtamedullary cortex (zone 4). At 3 X 10(-8) g/kg/min, the renal vascular resistance decreased even further, but at this dose the mean arterial blood pressure also declined 13% indicating recirculation of this prostaglandin. PGI2 infusion at a vasodilatory dose resulted in natriuresis and kaliuresis. With a decline in filtration fraction, these changes were most likely secondary to the hemodynamic effects of this prostaglandin. Unlike PGE2, PGI2 had no direct effect on free water clearance indicating lack of activity at the collecting duct. PGI2 may be the important renal prostaglandin involved in modulating renal vascular resistance and intrarenal hemodynamics as well as influencing systemic blood pressure.