Gastrin-releasing peptide: effect on exocrine secretion and release from isolated perfused porcine pancreas

The effect of gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) on pancreatic exocrine secretion was studied by infusing it at four dose levels (0.01, 0.1, 1.0, and 10 nmol/l) into the arterial line of the isolated perfused porcine pancreas. At 1.0 nmol/l GRP stimulated protein (37-fold), fluid (13-fold), and bicarbonate secretion (12-fold). Atropine at 1 mumol/l diminished the protein secretion in response to infusion of GRP at a dose of 1 nmol/l to 45% of control. Fluid and bicarbonate responses were not affected by atropine treatment. Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerves resulted in an increase in pancreatic output of GRP and a concomitant stimulation of exocrine secretion. Infusions of acetylcholine, carbachol, pilocarpine, or dimethylphenylpiperazinium had no effect on the output of GRP, although hexamethonium abolished the response to vagal stimulation. It is concluded that GRP in conjunction with acetylcholine is likely to play a prominent part in parasympathetic regulation of pancreatic exocrine secretion.