Primary role of volume expansion in stimulation of rectal gland function

Chloride secretion by the in vivo rectal gland of the shark is stimulated by the intravascular infusion of salt solutions of varying osmolar and sodium concentration. In a cross-perfused and denervated rectal gland, the infusion of a small amount of a hypertonic salt solution raises plasma osmolality but does not increase plasma volume in the donor fish. Under these conditions, rectal gland chloride secretion is not stimulated. A subsequent infusion of isotonic shark Ringer solution increases plasma volume 50%, decreases plasma osmolality, and produces a fourfold increase in chloride secretion and a threefold decrease in vascular resistance within the gland. Both the vasodilatory and secretory responses also follow the infusion of a hypotonic shark Ringer solution. The data further support the hypothesis that the rectal gland of the shark is involved in the regulation of intravascular volume rather than in osmoregulation.