Abstract
The mechanism of increase of taurine concentration in the heart of starved rats was investigated. Starvation for 48 to 72 hr markedly increased the taurine level in heart muscle and serum. Adrenalectomy completely prevented the increase of taurine concentration in the heart during starvation. Incorporation of radioactive taurine into the heart tissue was increased in starved rats. Administration of phenoxybenzamine or propranolol prevented the increase of taurine concentration in heart and the enhanced transport of radioactive taurine during starvation. These observations indicate that adrenal factor, especially epinephrine, may be involved in regulation of cardiac taurine level.
