Norepinephrine Transporter–Deficient Mice Exhibit Excessive Tachycardia and Elevated Blood Pressure With Wakefulness and Activity

Abstract

Resting mean arterial pressure and heart rate are maintained at nearly normal levels in NET-deficient mice, most likely as a result of increased central sympathoinhibition. However, sympathetic activation with wakefulness and activity apparently overwhelms central modulation, amplifying peripheral catecholaminergic signaling, particularly in the heart.