DIRECT EFFECT OF ENDOTOXIN ON GASTRIC MUCOSAL MICROCIRCULATION AND ELECTRICAL GRADIENT

  • 1 January 1976
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 79  (5) , 564-568
Abstract
The effects of intra-arterial infusion of Escherichia coli endotoxin (1.0 mg/min) on the gastric total and mucosal blood flows, electrical potential difference and ionic fluxes across the gastric mucosa were studied in an exteriorized, chambered preparation of canine fundic stomach. .gamma.-Labeled microsphere technique was used in addition to venous drainage and plasma aminopyrine clearance for the measurement of total and mucosal blood flow, respectively. Despite normal systemic blood pressure throughout the experiment, E. coli endotoxin infusion caused a significant decrease in total gastric blood flow and fractional distribution of flow to the mucosae. There was no signifant arteriovenous shunting of microspheres. Significant reduction in potential difference and H+ back diffusion was noted after endotoxin infusion, possibly as a consequence of reduced mucosal blood flow. Significant gastric mucosal ischemia can occur and may represent a mechanism in the development of gastric erosions in endotoxemia, even in the absence of systemic hypotension.