INCREASE IN ALDOSTERONE SECRETION BY CAROTID ARTERY CONSTRICTION IN THE DOG AND ITS PREVENTION BY THYROCAROTID ARTERIAL JUNCTION DENERVATION *

Abstract

Constriction of the common carotid arteries low in the neck produces increased secretion of aldosterone in dogs. This effect is independent of changes in peripheral arterial pressure, but is abolished by bilateral denervation of the thyrocarotid arterial junctions. The rise in aldosterone normally seen with constriction of the inferior vena cava is also prevented by denervation of this region. It is suggested that aldosterone secretion is regulated by a dual mechanism, in which decreases in secretion are mediated by the vagus nerves, while increases in secretion are mediated primarily by receptors located at the thyrocarotid arterial junction. Aldosterone secretion may thus be increased by local decrease in intracarotid volume, independent of total extracellular or even intravascular volumes.