Polyamines are inhibitors of gastric acid secretion.

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Abstract
The naturally occurring organic polycations such as spermine and spermidine inhibit histamine-stimulated gastric acid secretion by bullfrog [Rana catesbeiana] gastric mucosa in vitro; spermine was more potent than spermidine. Unlike the H2 receptor antagonists, the polyamines are completely ineffective from the nutrient side and are effective only from the secretory side of the chambered mucosa. The polyamine effects could be reversed by increasing K+ concentration in the secretory solution. Studies with isolated gastric microsomal vesicles demonstrate that the polyamines do not inhibit the gastric H+, K+-ATPase but greatly decrease the ATPase-mediated uptake of H+ under appropriate conditions. For the latter effects of presence of polyamine within the vesicle interior was essential. An uncoupling of the gastric H+, K+-ATPase system by the polyamines was suggested. The therapeutic potential of these and similar compounds in the treatment of hyperacidity and peptic ulcer is discussed.