Abstract
Nasal blood flow is finely regulated by local release of neurotransmitters. neuropeptides and other bioactive molecules acting via paracrine mechanisms. We have investigated the effects of endothelin-l (ET-l), a potent vasoconstrictor peptide, on the blood perfusion of rabbit nasal mucosa by laser Doppler flowmetry. After injection with ET-l, a potent and prolonged nasal vasoconstriction was observed. ET-immunoreactivity has previously been detected in nasal tissues and it is therefore suggested that ET-l may participate in the regulation of nasal blood flow via paracrine mechanisms.
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