Aging-Associated Pancreatic Exocrine Insufficiency in the Unanesthetized Rat

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Abstract
Pancreatic functions may be diminished with aging. Pancreatic fluid, protein and amylase output were measured as a function of aging in the rat. Surgical preparations of the rats included external drainage of pancreatic secretions without obstructing normal bile flow and complete diversion of gastric acid out of the duodenum to prevent endogenous secretin release. Pancreatic secretions were collected in the basal state in unanesthetized animals 24 h after surgery. Protein and amylase output were highest at 3 mo. of age and decreased to < 20% of maximal values by 27 mo. of age. For example, amylase output decreased from 4354 to 105 U/h per kg and protein output fell from 33.5 to 1.7 mg/h per kg between 3 and 27 mo. of age. Aging in the rat apparently is associated with diminished pancreatic exocrine functions. Further careful assessment of pancreatic functions in aging individual is advisable.