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Enkephalin-like immunoreactivity in the human gastrointestinal tract
Lancet (London, England)
|May 7, 1977
Summary
Enkephalin, an opiate-like peptide, is present in the gut, particularly the antrum and upper small intestine. This finding suggests enkephalin may play a role in regulating gastrointestinal physiology.
Area of Science:
- Neurogastroenterology
- Gastrointestinal Physiology
Background:
- Morphine exerts significant effects on both the brain and the gastrointestinal tract.
- Opiate-like peptides, such as endorphins and enkephalins, are recognized constituents of the brain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and distribution of enkephalin-like immunoreactivity within the gastrointestinal tract.
- To explore the potential role of enkephalin as a locally acting hormone in gastrointestinal regulation.
Main Methods:
- Immunocytochemistry was employed to detect enkephalin-like immunoreactivity.
- Analysis was performed on 1-micron serial sections of various gastrointestinal tissues.
Main Results:
- Enkephalin-like immunoreactivity was detected throughout the gut, with high concentrations in the antrum and upper small intestine.
- Specific localization included antral mucosal cells, duodenal and pancreatic cells, and the myenteric plexus in the gallbladder and bile ducts.
Conclusions:
- Enkephalin is a constituent of the gut, suggesting a potential role in local gastrointestinal regulation.
- The presence of enkephalin in the gut aligns with the known effects of morphine on the alimentary tract, hinting at its physiological function.