Effect of adrenaline on sugar transport in the perifused left atrium

Abstract

The effect of adrenaline on the membrane transport of 3-methylglucose was studied in perifused isolated rat left atria that had been fully arrested. In this preparation a high concentration of adrenaline stimulated and a low one decreased sugar transport. The stimulatory effect was strongly inhibited by the β-adrenergic blocker propranolol and by the antilipolytic agent nicotinic acid. As the atria were not beating, the effects were not mediated by changes in the rate or strength of muscular contraction. The possible mechanisms of these effects of adrenaline on sugar transport are discussed.