Renal effect of subcommissural extract

Abstract

A considerable body of experimental evidence now indicates a regulatory role for the uppermost mid-brain in water-electrolyte metabolism, particularly with regard to water consumption and urinary electrolytes. The present investigation is the first in which an isotonic saline extract of the subcommissural organ alone has been assayed for effects upon urinary excretion of Na, Cl, and K. In each dog receiving the subcommissural organ extract, a marked and selective fall in Na excretion was noted over the ensuing 24-hour period, and this was followed by a progressive elevation of the urinary Na. The highest levels of total urinary Na, occurring on the 5th day following parenteral administration of subcommissural extract, were approximately twice normal values. The investigative and clinical implications of these findings are discussed.