Vasopressin regulates adrenal functions by acting through different vasopressin receptor subtypes

Abstract

In mammals, vasopressin is known to be synthesized in the hypothalamus and released in the blood stream at the pituitary level. This neuropeptide is also synthesized and secreted by the adrenal medulla in many species including human. Moreover, agents like acetylcholine and corticotropin releasing factor stimulates its basal secretion. V1a vasopressin receptors are present in the adrenal cortex and are involved in steroids secretion (aldosterone in the zona glomerulosa and glucocorticoids in the zona fasciculata of some species). These receptors are coupled to phospholipase Cβ and to dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium channels via heterotrimeric G proteins differing by their sensitivities to pertussis toxin. The adrenal medulla, from many species, exhibits V1 a vasopressin receptors. In rat adrenal medulla, functional V1b vasopressin receptors could also be characterized. These receptors stimulate catecholamines secretion via activation of phospholipase Cβ and subsequent mobilization of intracellular calcium. The adrenal medulla secretes AVP and exhibits functional vasopressin receptors. The adrenal cortex also possesses functional vasopressin receptors and is in contact with adrenal medulla via 'medullary rays'. We may thus reasonably conclude that AVP physiologically regulates adrenal gland functions via autocrine/paracrine mechanisms.