Studies on Facial Temperature Rise and Involvement of Serotonin in the Respiratory Stimulation by CRH

Summary

Following an intravenous injection of 100 ug hCRH a facial flushing can frequently be observed along with respiratory stimulation. Both effects can be mediated by a common transmitter. Serotonin is well known to produce facial flush as well as to modulate respiration. In order to clarify if serotonin is a common mediator for facial flush and respiratory stimulation after i. v. application of hCRH, we studied the time course of facial skin temperatures and respiratory stimulation after intravenous injection of 100 ug hCRH in 10 healthy subjects. Furthermore, we measured respiratory stimulation after i. v. administration of 100 ug hCRH in 10 healthy subjects pretreated with the serotonin antagonist cyproheptadine. Facial skin temperatures reached maximum levels 9 min after CRH administration and remained raised for more than 60 min. Respiratory stimulation occurred within the first minute after CRH administration and reached a maximum during the second minute, but could no longer be observed after 10 min. Serum serotonin levels did not change after CRH stimulation (in doses up to 3 ug/kg body weight), and cyproheptadine did not abolish the respiratory stimulation effect of hCRH in a dosage sufficient to suppess CRH.-induced cortisol secretion.

We thus conclude, that facial flushing and respiratory stimulation after intravenous administration of hCRH are not mediated through serotonin.

Key words

Facial Skin Temperature - Serotonin - CRH