Effects of neuropeptide Y on lung vascular permeability in the pulmonary circulation of rats.

ABSTRACT

The effects of neuropeptides on the capillary filtration coefficient in the vessels of the pulmonary circulation were examined, using isolated lung perfusion preparations from rats. Neuropeptide Y and neurokinin A elevated the filtration coefficient, and calcitonin gene related peptide diminished it. Neurotensin and substance P did not affect the value at concentrations less than 10(-7) M. The number of extravasated carbon particle deposits subsequent to tracheal application of neuropeptide Y during spontaneous respiration increased in a dose-dependent manner. From these results, we conclude that neuropeptide Y may increase vascular permeability in the pulmonary circulation.