A STUDY OF THE VAGO-ENTERIC MECHANISM BY MEANS OF NICOTIN

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Abstract
The observation by Bayliss and Starling that small doses of nicotin cause a loss of the effects of vagus stimulation on the small intestine in dogs is confirmed. However, if nicotin is given in gradually increasing doses the loss of vagus function is only temporary and is fully reestablished when 25-50 mgm. per kgm. have been administered. After still larger doses the response of the intestine to vagus stimulation becomes greater than before nicotin was given. The view is proposed that the temporary loss of vagus function is not due to paralysis of the vagus mechanism but is a manifestation of inhibition. The possible functional arrangements of the intestinal vagus mechanism permitting of such inhibitory phenomena are discussed. The arrangement which appears to be most in harmony with the available data comprises local reflex arcs in the myenteric plexus, with the vagus fibers acting as association pathways between the central nervous system and local reflex centers in the intestine.

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