Vagal Influence on Gastric Secretion of Hydrochloric Acid and Sialic Acid-containing Mucoproteins in the Rat on Provocation of Gastric Ulceration

Abstract

The influence of the vagus nerve on the gastric secretion of HCl- and sialic acid-containing mucoproteins was studied in rats subjected to provocation of gastric ulceration by pyloric ligation simultaneous with and 2 and 4 weeks after vagotomy. The vagotomy comprised stripping of the muscular layer in the distal part of the oesophagus. The outputs of HCl and sialic acid were determined and also the tissue concentration of sialic acid in the stomach wall. Histochemical tests for the presence of sialic acid and acid sulphate-containing mucoproteins were also made. The results confirm that ulcer provocation by pyloric ligation gives a large increase of both the HCl and sialic acid output. The HCl increase is inhibited by vagotomy. The simultaneous HCl and sialic acid determinations indicate, further, that the vagal influence is of importance not only for HCl production but also for the production of sialic acid-containing mucoproteins. A decreased vagal tone appears to give an immediate increase of the mucous secretion in the stomach but later on a decreased mucus production.