Experimental studies concerning the possible involvement of adenosine in maintaining the hydroelectrolytic balance.

The study focused on the effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of adenosine (10(-7)-10(-5) M) on water metabolism and some electrolytes in adults rats. The i.c.v. administered adenosine decreases both spontaneous and angiotensin II (Ang II) induced ingestion of sodium chloride solution (9/1000). Urinary release was differently influenced. Thus, while the released urinary volume increased in the first 4 hours after adenosine injection, it was not significantly modified on successive administration of adenosine and Ang II. Adenosine decreases the urinary releases of Na+ and K+ and dramatically reduces only Ang II-induced natriuresis. Finally, we can conclude that neural chains involved in the control of uptake and release of water and some ions, include neurons and/or purinergic interneurons.