Effect of a homologous series of halogenated methanes on pulmonary uptake of 5-hydroxytryptamine in isolated perfused rat lung.

The potency of halogenated methanes to inhibit uptake of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) from the pulmonary circulation was studied using an isolated, perfused and ventilated rat lung preparation. The agents were vaporized and mixed with the inlet air. The results indicate that the degree of chlorination is the most important factor for potency of the methanes to inhibit lung uptake of 5-HT. When hydrogen was substituted with fluorine the potency was decreased dramatically. Bromine seemed to have the opposite effect. The data also suggested that the degree of chlorination was more important rather than hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance of the solvent molecule. These effects seem to be correlated with the narcotic effects of the substances studied.