Discuss Systemic Mechanisms of Blood Pressure Control

In this summative assessment, you will interpret the effects of two different drugs Phenylephrine (PE) and Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) on blood pressure (BP). Use the trace obtained from a computer simulation experiment (shown in Figure 1 below) to calculate and interpret the effects of both PE and GTN on the simulated cardiovascular responses of heart rate and blood pressure. Your report should be a maximum of 500 words in length excluding any figures, figure legend or reference list. When preparing your report, please use the following template as a guide to structure. The word count indicated should be used only for guidance.

INTRODUCTION
Describe briefly the primary determinants of blood pressure.

RESULTS
Figure 1 shows the effects of PE (20g/kg) and GTN (10mg/kg). Considering only mean arterial pressure (MAP), calculate the effect of PE on baseline BP and the subsequent effect of GTN (you MUST construct an appropriate figure to help explain your words).

DISCUSSION
What mechanisms underpin the data presented in Figure 1; what are the underlying cellular and systemic mechanisms that cause the effect of GTN on BP in this experiment (Figure 1)?

From the experimental data presented in figure 1, has this experiment been conducted in a pithed model or a normal model? (Justify your answer by referring to the effects observed in Figure 1)

Again, using the experimental data presented in figure 1, where is the site of action of PE? (Justify your answer by referring to the effects observed in Figure 1)

References
Figure 1. Shows the effect of PE (phenylephrine) and GTN (Glyceryl trinitrate) on heart rate (BPM), heart force of contraction (HF) and arterial blood pressure (ABP) in a simulation model of cardiovascular function.