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Effects of hydrocortisone and cholecystokinin-octapeptide on neonatal rat pancreas
Insights
Newborn rats treated with hydrocortisone and cholecystokinin-octapeptide (CCK-8) showed increased pancreatic growth and enzyme activity. However, hydrocortisone later reduced pancreatic amylase secretion, while CCK-8 enhanced it.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Developmental Biology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- The development and function of the pancreas are crucial for digestion.
- Hormonal regulation plays a significant role in organ development during early life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of hydrocortisone and cholecystokinin-octapeptide (CCK-8) on the growth and secretory capacity of the newborn rat pancreas.
- To understand the distinct roles of glucocorticoids and CCK-8 in pancreatic development.
Main Methods:
- Newborn rats were injected with hydrocortisone or CCK-8 from days 1-5 of life.
- Pancreatic weight, protein, and DNA content were measured.
- Specific activities of digestive enzymes (amylase, chymotrypsinogen, lipase) were assessed.
- Pancreatic amylase secretion in response to carbachol and basal secretion were measured at 7 days of age.
Main Results:
- Both hydrocortisone and CCK-8 significantly increased pancreatic weight, protein, and DNA content.
- Specific activities of amylase, chymotrypsinogen, and lipase were elevated by both agents.
- Hydrocortisone administration at 7 days decreased the pancreas's ability to secrete amylase in response to carbachol.
- CCK-8 administration at 7 days increased basal pancreatic secretion.
Conclusions:
- Glucocorticoids and cholecystokinin are key regulators of newborn rat pancreatic growth.
- These hormones differentially influence the secretory capacity of the developing pancreas.
- Early-life hormonal exposure has lasting effects on pancreatic function.
Abstract:
Hydrocortisone and cholecystokinin-octapeptide (CCK-8) were injected into newborn rats on days 1-5 of life. Both agents induced significant increases in pancreatic weight, protein, DNA, and specific activities of amylase, chymotrypsinogen, and lipase. The ability of the pancreas to secrete amylase in response to carbachol was decreased by the administration of hydrocorticosterone at age 7 days. CCK-8 increased basal secretion at 7 days. We conclude that growth and secretory capacity of the newborn rat pancreas are under the control of both glucocorticoids and cholecystokinin.