[Renal microcirculation].
The blood flow to the kidney averages about 20% of the cardiac output and the renal circulation affects urine formation. The renal microcirculation is unique. Glomerular circulation is mainly regulated by two resistance arterioles, the afferent arteriole and the efferent arteriole. Two capillary beds are arranged in series between the arterial and venous circulation. Many experimental findings show that each arteriole has a different sensitivity to various stimuli. Moreover, several anatomic characteristics of the renal circulation display heterogeneity. Several regional differences in the renal microcirculation may subserve the excretory function of the kidney. Technological advances now permit direct observation of renal arterioles and measurements of microvascular pressure, flows and resistances. In this mini review, we introduce 1) characteristics of renal circulation, 2) techniques for study of renal microcirculation, 3) effects of angiotensin II on the renal microvasculature, and 4) future directions for the study of renal microcirculation.
Department of Pharmacology, University of Tokushima School of Medicine, Japan.
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Tamaki
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Yoshizumi
D000804:Angiotensin II / Q000502:physiology; D057911:Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists; D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D007093:Imidazoles; D008833:Microcirculation / Q000502:physiology; D011725:Pyridines; D012079:Renal Circulation / Q000502:physiology; D014655:Vascular Resistance
D057911:Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists; D007093:Imidazoles; D011725:Pyridines; D000804:Angiotensin II; C073402:PD 123319