title: Vasodilator activity of human alpha-calcitonin gene-related peptide in the feline mesenteric vascular bed.
abstract: Human alpha-calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a substance immunohistochemically present in a number of organ systems; however, the biologic significance of this peptide is uncertain. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of CGRP in the feline mesenteric vascular bed under conditions of controlled blood flow. Bolus injections of CGRP decreased mesenteric perfusion pressure in a dose-related fashion. When compared with nitroglycerin, CGRP possesses markedly greater vasodilator activity in the intestinal vascular bed of the cat. Because circulating levels of CGRP have been identified, the present data suggest CGRP may play a role in the regulation of systemic vasomotor tone and regional hemodynamics, as well as involve altered calcium metabolism seen with other calcium-regulating hormones in hypertensive states.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001794:Blood Pressure; D015740:Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide; D002415:Cats; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006801:Humans; D007269:Injections, Intra-Arterial; D008970:Molecular Weight; D009479:Neuropeptides / Q000494:pharmacology*; D005996:Nitroglycerin / Q000494:pharmacology; D013152:Splanchnic Circulation / Q000187:drug effects*; D014655:Vascular Resistance / Q000187:drug effects; D014664:Vasodilation
chemical_list: D009479:Neuropeptides; D005996:Nitroglycerin; D015740:Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide