The effect of catecholamines on branchial and cardiac electrical recordings in adult lampreys (Geotria Australis)

Macey, D.J., Epple, A., Potter, I.C. and Hilliard, R.W. (1984) The effect of catecholamines on branchial and cardiac electrical recordings in adult lampreys (Geotria Australis). Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part C: Comparative Pharmacology, 79 (2). pp. 295-3000.

Abstract

1. A method is described for injecting CAs into the caudal vein of unanaesthetized lampreys and monitoring any subsequent changes in branchial and cardiac electrical recordings.

2. While a dose of 5–6 μg kg−1 body wt of norepinephrine increased the rate and amplitude of branchial and cardiac electrical recordings, the same dose of epinephrine produced a comparable effect only on the heart recordings.

3. A dose of 5–6 μg kg−1 body wt of dopamine had a relatively small effect on branchial and cardiac electrical recordings.

4. The response to CAs by lampreys is apparently dose related.

5. The above results have been used to suggest possible ways by which CAs influence cardiac and respiratory functions in lampreys.