Glucagon-like peptidel and sympathetic vasomotor function

Abstract

Glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) is a member of the superfamily of glucagon‐related peptides. GLP‐1 increases Fos expression in RVLM presympathetic neurons and adrenal medulla chromaffin cells and it has been proposed that this may account for the pressor and tachycardic effects of systemic GLP‐1 administration. In this study we have tested the hypothesis that systemic GLP‐1 activates RVLM presympathetic neurons and sympathetic vasomotor outflow. In separate groups of halothane‐anesthetized, paralysed male Sprague‐Dawley rats, we recorded the discharges of RVLM presympathetic neurons and splanchnic sympathetic discharge (SSND) along with arterial blood pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR). GLP‐1..