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Parotid protein secretion from the rabbit during feeding
M Ikawa1, M P Hector, G B Proctor
1Department of Child Dental Health, London Hospital Medical College.
Experimental Physiology
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Propranolol reduced rabbit salivary protein secretion, indicating beta-adrenergic control. Different feeding stimulated varied protein output, suggesting parasympathetic nervous system involvement in salivary gland function.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Salivary gland secretion is regulated by neural and hormonal factors.
- Understanding the specific roles of different neural pathways in salivary secretion is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of beta-adrenergic pathways in rabbit parotid gland secretion.
- To examine the effects of propranolol on salivary protein and fluid secretion.
- To explore the neural control of salivary protein secretion during feeding.
Main Methods:
- Rabbits were fed a standardized diet and parotid ducts were cannulated.
- Saliva was collected before and after propranolol administration during feeding on pellets and carrots.
- Salivary total protein and amylase concentrations were measured; protein composition was analyzed using SDS-PAGE.
Main Results:
- Propranolol significantly reduced salivary protein secretion but not fluid secretion, indicating partial beta-adrenergic control.
- A transient increase in protein secretion occurred 8 hours post-propranolol, suggesting distinct mechanisms for secretion and synthesis.
- Pellet feeding resulted in higher protein output than carrot feeding, highlighting the parasympathetic nervous system's role.
Conclusions:
- Salivary protein secretion in rabbits is partly regulated by beta-adrenergic pathways.
- The parasympathetic nervous system plays a significant role in regulating salivary protein output, especially during feeding.
- Distinct neural mechanisms may govern salivary protein secretion versus synthesis.