Cutaneous iontophoresis of adrenergic agonists can mimic in vivo neural effects on vasodilation

Iontophoresis utilizes electrical current to non-invasively deliver agents through the skin. This pilot study sought determine if iontophoresis could be paired with laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) administer adrenergic and cholinergic agonists measure subsequent changes in cutaneous blood flow. We hypothesized that administration would produce vascular tone consistent those seen during other delivery methods. iontophoresed phenylephrine, clonidine, isoproterenol, acetylcholine forearm of one generally healthy 44-year-old female using existing or adapted protocols. also created half-strength protocols goal establishing dose-response relations. quantified erythrocyte flux via LDF beat-by-beat arterial pressure finger photoplethysmography. After baseline, each drug was administered its half full-strength protocols, separated by a washout period. Finally, we stimulated maximal flow at site non-noxious local heating 43°C. Cutaneous conductance (CVC; flux/ mean pressure) calculated baseline following iontophoresis. vehicle (deionized water) alone as control, same analysis. The responses matched our predictions exception which caused vasodilation. Vehicle Full-strength application led more pronounced change CVC, suggesting relation might established additional data. Applications certain higher CVC than “maximal”, possibly raising need alter method for Overall, findings indicate can used effectively non-glabrous skin affect tone. non-invasive technique investigate these whose neural receptor characteristics have been altered consequence disease.