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Eating lowers defecation threshold in pigs through cholinergic pathways

M D Crowell1, F Musial, A W French

  • 1Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224.

Physiology & Behavior
|May 1, 1993
PubMed
Summary

Eating lowers the defecation threshold, as shown by reduced volume and pressure needed for defecation post-meal. Cholinergic pathways mediate these effects, with atropine blocking the postprandial decrease in defecation threshold.

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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Physiology

Background:

  • The defecation threshold, influenced by feeding, plays a role in bowel function.
  • Understanding the physiological mechanisms behind postprandial defecation is crucial for gastrointestinal health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of atropine on the defecation threshold pre- and postprandially in pigs.
  • To elucidate the role of cholinergic pathways in mediating postprandial changes in defecation.

Main Methods:

  • Four pigs underwent stepwise rectal balloon distention to determine the defecation threshold.
  • Measurements included balloon volume, rectal pressure, rectal compliance, and contractile activity.
  • Atropine was administered to assess its effects compared to placebo, both pre- and postprandially.

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Main Results:

  • Postprandial defecation occurred at significantly lower volumes and pressures compared to preprandial conditions under placebo (p < 0.05).
  • Atropine abolished the postprandial decrease in defecation threshold and the increase in contractile activity observed near the threshold.
  • Rectal compliance remained unaffected by feeding or atropine.

Conclusions:

  • Eating lowers the defecation threshold, indicated by reduced distention volume and rectal pressure.
  • These postprandial changes are mediated by cholinergic pathways.
  • Atropine administration blocks the effects of eating on the defecation threshold and associated contractile activity.