A unique distribution of laxative-induced spike potentials from the small intestine of the dog

The effects of castor oil and ricinoleic acid on small bowel electrical activity were studied in the fasted conscious dog and were compared to the effects elicited by two nonlaxative oils (triolein and oleic acid). Spike potential activity was monitored at two jejunal sites using unipolar recording electrodes. Castor oil, ricinoleic acid, and triolein produced an increased incidence of basic electrical rhythm (BER) with associated spike potentials when compared to a fasted control; however, the total electrical spiking activity produced by these oils was not statistically different from that induced by feeding. No treatment altered any of the characteristics of BER. A novel pattern of electrical spiking activity was observed in response to the laxatives. This pattern consisted of short repetitive bursts of spike potentials which migrated the length of the recording site. The laxative-induced electrical pattern persisted for several days after treatment with ricinoleic acid or castor oil, and interdigestive patterns were occasionally interrupted for as long as 72 hr. Electrical activity following feeding or the nonlaxative oils consisted of random spike potentials, and normal interdigestive electrical activity resumed within 24 hr. The laxative-induced electrical pattern was shown to be quantitatively distinct from those produced by feeding, fasting, or nonlaxative oils. This pattern may reflect an action of these laxatives on intestinal motility during a diarrheal state.