Altered element concentration in serum, heart, liver and kidney tissues after epinephrine administration in rats

ABSTRACT

The effect of epinephrine administration [1 mg/kg body weight] on trace elements and electrolytes levels of serum, liver, heart and kidney tissues was studied in rats. Epinephrine administration decreased sodium, potassium and calcium in heart, liver and kidney tissues. A significant elevation in copper and zinc levels of serum, heart and kidney tissues was observed in epinephrine injected rats. Iron content was significantly decreased in serum and kidney tissue whereas in liver tissue significant elevation was observed after epinephrine administration. The results suggested that epinephrine administration causes alterations in element concentration both in serum and tissues. The results may help towards an understanding of the relationship between elevated catecholamine levels in emotional stress condition and sudden death through a process of altered elements concentration