Role of β-Receptors in Sympathetic Regulation of Electrolytes in Rat Submaxillary Saliva. ∗

Abstract

Summary

Electrolyte composition ([K], [Na], [Cl], [HCO₃]) and flow rate have been characterized in rat submaxillary saliva evoked by electrical stimulation of the sympathetic innervation. [K] and [HCO₃] were found to be appreciably higher, and flow rate lower, in sympathetically than in parasympa-thetically evoked saliva. Administration of the β-adrenergic blocking agent, Inderal, prior to sympathetic stimulation resulted in significant reduction in salivary [K] of pilocarpine-evoked saliva but did not affect the electrolytes of saliva obtained by stimulation of the parasympathetic innervation. It is concluded that in rat submaxillary gland β-adrenergic receptors are involved in regulation of electrolyte composition by sympathetic nerves and by the adrenergic component of the action of pilocarpine.