Effect of Neurotensin on Exocrine Pancreatic Secretion in Dogs

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Abstract
The effects of various doses of synthetic neurotensin on exocrine pancreatic secretion were investigated in dogs prepared with pancreatic fistulae. Increasing doses of neurotensin infused intravenously caused a dose-dependent stimulation of exocrine pancreatic secretion. Plasma neurotensin levels determined with a radioimmunoassay kit for neurotensin were significantly correlated to the amount of neurotensin infused. Significant stimulation of exocrine pancreatic secretion was observed when 2.5 pmol kg-1 min-1 neurotensin were infused. This dose resulted in neurotensin plasma levels comparable to those observed after a meal. Combined infusions of neurotensin and the cholecystokinin analogue cerulein had synergistic effects on pancreatic bicarbonate output and raised the HCO-3: protein ratio. These observations suggest that neurotensin may play a role in the early phase of postprandial stimulation of exocrine pancreatic function.