Effects of L-glutamic acid and kainic acid on central cardiovascular control.

L-Glutamic acid and kainic acid injected into the cisterna magna of dogs, produced a dose-dependent increase in blood pressure and a decrease in heart rate. In contrast, intravenous injection of both compounds was ineffective. The hypertension was probably due to an increase in sympathetic tone as guanethidine prevented the rise in blood pressure induced by central administration of L-glutamic acid and kainic acid. Kainic acid was 1 000 fold more potent than L-glutamic acid.