Renin-specific antibody for study of cardiovascular homeostasis.

Antiserum specific for purified canine renal renin was used to inhibit this enzyme in trained, conscious dogs. The antiserum did not affect blood pressure in sodium-replete dogs but decreased plasma renin activity and blood pressure in sodium-depleted animals. The antiserum also reduced blood pressure to control levels concomitant with suppression of plasma renin activity in uninephrectomized dogs with acute renovascular hypertension. These observations establish the role of the renin-angiotensin system in the maintenance of blood pressure in the sodium-depleted state as well as in the initiation of renovascular hypertension.