The inner ear produces a natriuretic hormone.

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Cytoplasmic granules have been demonstrated in epithelial cells from the endolymphatic sac, an extraosseus part of the inner ear located in the posterior cranial fossa. Intravenously infused extracts from endolymphatic sacs in anesthetized rats elicited a potent natriuresis and diuresis without effects on blood pressure, glomerular filtration rate, or lithium clearance. Only a minor kaliuresis was observed. Extracts of dural tissue adjacent to the endolymphatic sacs had no effect. It is concluded that the endolymphatic sac contains as endogenous inhibitor of sodium reabsorption and could be the sensory organ/mediator of "cerebral" natriuresis. Furthermore, this substance, tentatively named saccin, may influence the homeostasis of the inner ear fluids and accordingly play a significant role in the pathogenesis of Mèniére's disease.
Original languageEnglish
JournalAmerican Journal of Physiology (Consolidated)
Volume270
Issue number6 Pt 2
Pages (from-to)F1073-7
ISSN0002-9513
Publication statusPublished - 1996

Bibliographical note

Keywords: Absorption; Animals; Blood Pressure; Diuresis; Ear, Inner; Endolymphatic Sac; Injections, Intravenous; Kidney Tubules, Proximal; Lithium; Male; Microscopy, Electron; Natriuresis; Natriuretic Agents; Potassium; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Sodium; Tissue Extracts

ID: 8439616