The functions of cyclic AMP and calcium as alternative second messengers in parotid gland and pancreas

Biochemical and ultrastructural studies of rat parotid gland slices have led to the identification of alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors and a cholinergic receptor, all operating within the same secretory cell. While cyclic AMP serves as the second messenger in the beta-adrenergic response of enzyme secretion, Ca++ serves as the second messenger in the alpha-adrenergic and in the cholinergic responses which both lead to K+ release and water secretion. Ca++ also serves as a second messenger for the muscarinic cholinergic receptor in rat pancreas slices in which it causes enzyme secretion. Analysis of this information leads to the conclusion that neither the neurotransmitter, nor the receptor, nor the second messenger are unique for a certain type of response. The latter seems to be dictated by a component of the specific response pathway which is affected by the second or a subsequent messenger. By having different neurotransmitters operate the same response and a single neurotransmitter operate different responses diversity of control is achieved.