Abstract

Abstract Isolated guinea-pig lungs perfused with Krebs solution were found to remove 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT) from the fluid perfusing them. Two processes were involved: (1) the active uptake of 5HT by cells in the lungs, and (2) the metabolism of 5HT to 5-hydroxyindole-acetic acid (5HIAA). The experiments emphasize that the lungs have a metabolic capacity in addition to their passive function of gas diffusion. Derangement of the metabolic functions of the lungs may prove to be as serious clinically as derangement of their respiratory functions. Failure to clear the venous plasma of free 5HT would affect the aggregation of platelets and might thus have a bearing on the problem of deep venous thrombosis in man.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.