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Browning KN, Verheijden S, Boeckxstaens GE. The Vagus Nerve in Appetite Regulation, Mood, and Intestinal Inflammation. Gastroenterology 2017; 152:730-744. [PMID: 27988382 PMCID: PMC5337130 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although the gastrointestinal tract contains intrinsic neural plexuses that allow a significant degree of independent control over gastrointestinal functions, the central nervous system provides extrinsic neural inputs that modulate, regulate, and integrate these functions. In particular, the vagus nerve provides the parasympathetic innervation to the gastrointestinal tract, coordinating the complex interactions between central and peripheral neural control mechanisms. This review discusses the physiological roles of the afferent (sensory) and motor (efferent) vagus in regulation of appetite, mood, and the immune system, as well as the pathophysiological outcomes of vagus nerve dysfunction resulting in obesity, mood disorders, and inflammation. The therapeutic potential of vagus nerve modulation to attenuate or reverse these pathophysiological outcomes and restore autonomic homeostasis is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsteen N. Browning
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Science Penn State College of Medicine 500 University Drive MC H109 Hershey, PA 17033
| | - Simon Verheijden
- Translational Research Center of Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID) KU Leuven Herestraat 49 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Guy E. Boeckxstaens
- Translational Research Center of Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID) KU Leuven Herestraat 49 3000 Leuven, Belgium,Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology University Hospital Leuven Herestraat 49 3000 Leuven, Belgium,Address of correspondence: Prof. dr. Guy Boeckxstaens,
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Zafra MA, Molina F, Puerto A. Chemical afferent vagal axotomy blocks re-intake after partial withdrawal of gastric food contents. Nutr Neurosci 2016; 20:587-597. [DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2016.1208970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- María A. Zafra
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Granada, Campus de Cartuja, Granada 18071, Spain
| | - Filomena Molina
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Granada, Campus de Cartuja, Granada 18071, Spain
| | - Amadeo Puerto
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Granada, Campus de Cartuja, Granada 18071, Spain
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Abstract
A large body of research has been dedicated to the effects of gastrointestinal peptides on vagal afferent fibres, yet multiple lines of evidence indicate that gastrointestinal peptides also modulate brainstem vagal neurocircuitry, and that this modulation has a fundamental role in the physiology and pathophysiology of the upper gastrointestinal tract. In fact, brainstem vagovagal neurocircuits comprise highly plastic neurons and synapses connecting afferent vagal fibres, second order neurons of the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), and efferent fibres originating in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV). Neuronal communication between the NTS and DMV is regulated by the presence of a variety of inputs, both from within the brainstem itself as well as from higher centres, which utilize an array of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators. Because of the circumventricular nature of these brainstem areas, circulating hormones can also modulate the vagal output to the upper gastrointestinal tract. This Review summarizes the organization and function of vagovagal reflex control of the upper gastrointestinal tract, presents data on the plasticity within these neurocircuits after stress, and discusses the gastrointestinal dysfunctions observed in Parkinson disease as examples of physiological adjustment and maladaptation of these reflexes.
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Nawrot-Porąbka K, Jaworek J, Leja-Szpak A, Kot M, Lange S. The role of antisecretory factor in pancreatic exocrine secretion: studies in vivo and in vitro. Exp Physiol 2015; 100:267-77. [PMID: 25641073 DOI: 10.1113/expphysiol.2014.083899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? Antisecretory factor, an endogenous protein detected in many tissues of the body, is known as an inhibitor of intestinal secretion, but its role in pancreatic exocrine secretory function has not yet been investigated. What is the main finding and its importance? In a rodent model, we show that antisecretory factor reduces pancreatic exocrine secretion, probably via its direct action on the pancreatic acini and via modulation of the enteropancreatic reflexes involving cholecystokinin and sensory nerves. Antisecretory factor (AF) regulates ion and water transport through the intestinal cell membrane. Antisecretory factor inhibits intestinal secretion, but its effect on the exocrine pancreas has not yet been shown. We investigated the effect of AF on pancreatic amylase secretion in vivo and in vitro using pancreatic acini isolated by collagenase digestion. For the in vivo study, Wistar rats were surgically equipped with silicone catheters, inserted into the pancreaticobiliary duct and into the duodenum. Capsaicin was used to deactivate the sensory nerves in turn to assess their involvement in the effects of AF on the exocrine pancreas. Antisecretory factor (1, 3 or 10 μg kg(-1) i.p.) was given in basal conditions or following stimulation of pancreatic secretion with diversion of pancreaticobiliary juice. For the in vitro study, rat pancreatic acini were incubated in the presence of increasing doses of AF (from 10(-8) to 10(-5) m) alone or in combination with caerulein (10(-12) m). Cytoplasmic cholecystokinin 1 (CCK1 ) receptor protein was detected by Western blot and immunoprecipitation studies. Antisecretory factor markedly reduced the output of pancreatic amylase both in basal conditions and when stimulated by diversion of pancreaticobiliary juice. Deactivation of the sensory nerves with capsaicin completely reversed the inhibitory effects of AF on the exocrine pancreas. Caerulein-induced enzyme secretion from the pancreatic acini was inhibited by AF, whereas basal secretion was unaffected. Administration of AF to the rats significantly diminished the synthesis of CCK1 receptor protein. We conclude that AF inhibits pancreatic exocrine secretion indirectly via sensory nerves and directly decreases amylase release from isolated pancreatic acini. The direct inhibitory action of AF on the exocrine pancreas could be related, at least in part, to a reduction of CCK1 receptors on pancreatic acinar cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Nawrot-Porąbka
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
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Babic T, Travagli RA. Acute pancreatitis decreases the sensitivity of pancreas-projecting dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus neurones to group II metabotropic glutamate receptor agonists in rats. J Physiol 2014; 592:1411-21. [PMID: 24445314 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2013.270108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that pancreatic exocrine secretions (PES) are modulated by dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV) neurones, whose activity is finely tuned by GABAergic and glutamatergic synaptic inputs. Group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR) decrease synaptic transmission to pancreas-projecting DMV neurones and increase PES. In the present study, we used a combination of in vivo and in vitro approaches aimed at characterising the effects of caerulein-induced acute pancreatitis (AP) on the vagal neurocircuitry modulating pancreatic functions. In control rats, microinjection of bicuculline into the DMV increased PES, whereas microinjections of kynurenic acid had no effect. Conversely, in AP rats, microinjection of bicuculline had no effect, whereas kynurenic acid decreased PES. DMV microinjections of the group II mGluR agonist APDC and whole cell recordings of excitatory currents in identified pancreas-projecting DMV neurones showed a reduced functional response in AP rats compared to controls. Moreover, these changes persisted up to 3 weeks following the induction of AP. These data demonstrate that AP increases the excitatory input to pancreas-projecting DMV neurones by decreasing the response of excitatory synaptic terminals to group II mGluR agonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Babic
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, 500 University Drive, MC H109, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
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Babic T, Travagli RA. Role of metabotropic glutamate receptors in the regulation of pancreatic functions. Biochem Pharmacol 2013; 87:535-42. [PMID: 24355565 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2013.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Revised: 12/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The pancreas consists of two major divisions, the exocrine and the endocrine pancreas. Recent data from our laboratory have shown that the functions of the two divisions are under modulatory regulation by separate neurocircuits that originate in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV). Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are expressed throughout the central nervous system and have been implicated in the modulation of synaptic transmission. mGluRs consist of three groups of receptors, which can be distinguished based on their pharmacological properties and second messenger systems. Group I mGluRs predominantly increase, whereas group II and III mGluRs decrease synaptic transmission. Group II and group III mGluRs are present on excitatory and inhibitory synaptic terminals impinging on pancreas-projecting DMV neurons. We have shown that group II mGluRs regulate both exocrine pancreatic secretions and insulin release, whereas group III mGluRs only regulate insulin release. Several mGluR agonists and antagonists have been shown to have clinical uses for disorders accompanied by abnormal synaptic transmission, including anxiety and Parkinson's disease. Moreover, a negative allosteric modulator of Group I mGluRs is effective in alleviating symptoms of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Since the role of the three mGluR groups in mediating different gastrointestinal (GI) functions appears to be highly specific, the use of agonists or antagonists directed at a single receptor group could potentially provide highly selective targets for the treatment of GI disorders including GERD, functional dyspepsia and acute pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Babic
- Neural and Behavioral Sciences Penn State College of Medicine, Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, 500 University Drive-MC H109 Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA.
| | - R Alberto Travagli
- Neural and Behavioral Sciences Penn State College of Medicine, Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, 500 University Drive-MC H109 Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA
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Babic T, Bhagat R, Wan S, Browning KN, Snyder M, Fortna SR, Travagli RA. Role of the vagus in the reduced pancreatic exocrine function in copper-deficient rats. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2013; 304:G437-48. [PMID: 23275611 PMCID: PMC6842873 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00402.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 12/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Copper plays an essential role in the function and development of the central nervous system and exocrine pancreas. Dietary copper limitation is known to result in noninflammatory atrophy of pancreatic acinar tissue. Our recent studies have suggested that vagal motoneurons regulate pancreatic exocrine secretion (PES) by activating selective subpopulations of neurons within vagovagal reflexive neurocircuits. We used a combination of in vivo, in vitro, and immunohistochemistry techniques in a rat model of copper deficiency to investigate the effects of a copper-deficient diet on the neural pathways controlling PES. Duodenal infusions of Ensure or casein, as well as microinjections of sulfated CCK-8, into the dorsal vagal complex resulted in an attenuated stimulation of PES in copper-deficient animals compared with controls. Immunohistochemistry of brain stem slices revealed that copper deficiency reduced the number of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive, but not neuronal nitric oxide synthase- or choline acetyltransferase-immunoreactive, neurons in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV). Moreover, a copper-deficient diet reduced the number of large (>11 neurons), but not small, intrapancreatic ganglia. Electrophysiological recordings showed that DMV neurons from copper-deficient rats are less responsive to CCK-8 or pancreatic polypeptide than are DMV neurons from control rats. Our results demonstrate that copper deficiency decreases efferent vagal outflow to the exocrine pancreas. These data indicate that the combined selective loss of acinar pancreatic tissue and the decreased excitability of efferent vagal neurons induce a deficit in the vagal modulation of PES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Babic
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
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Browning KN, Babic T, Holmes GM, Swartz E, Travagli RA. A critical re-evaluation of the specificity of action of perivagal capsaicin. J Physiol 2013; 591:1563-80. [PMID: 23297311 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.246827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Perivagal application of capsaicin (1% solution) is considered to cause a selective degeneration of vagal afferent C fibres and has been used extensively to examine the site of action of many gastrointestinal (GI) neuropeptides. The actions of both capsaicin and GI neuropeptides may not be restricted to vagal afferent fibres, however, as other non-sensory neurones have displayed sensitivity to capsaicin and brainstem microinjections of these neuropeptides induce GI effects similar to those obtained upon systemic application. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that perivagal capsaicin induces degeneration of vagal efferents controlling GI functions. Experiments were conducted 7-14 days after 30 min unilateral perivagal application of 0.1-1% capsaicin. Immunohistochemical analyses demonstrated that, as following vagotomy, capsaicin induced dendritic degeneration, decreased choline acetyltransferase but increased nitric oxide synthase immunoreactivity in rat dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV) neurones. Electrophysiological recordings showed a decreased DMV input resistance and excitability due, in part, to the expression of a large conductance calcium-dependent potassium current and the opening of a transient outward potassium window current at resting potential. Furthermore, the number of DMV neurones excited by thyrotrophin-releasing hormone and the gastric motility response to DMV microinjections of TRH were decreased significantly. Our data indicate that perivagal application of capsaicin induced DMV neuronal degeneration and decreased vagal motor responses. Treatment with perivagal capsaicin cannot therefore be considered selective for vagal afferent C fibres and, consequently, care is needed when using perivagal capsaicin to assess the mechanism of action of GI neuropeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- K N Browning
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, 500 University Drive, MC H109, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
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Babic T, Browning KN, Kawaguchi Y, Tang X, Travagli RA. Pancreatic insulin and exocrine secretion are under the modulatory control of distinct subpopulations of vagal motoneurones in the rat. J Physiol 2012; 590:3611-22. [PMID: 22711959 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.234955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Brainstem vago-vagal neurocircuits modulate upper gastrointestinal functions. Derangement of these sensory-motor circuits is implicated in several pathophysiological states, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), functional dyspepsia and, possibly, pancreatitis. While vagal circuits controlling the stomach have received more attention, the organization of brainstem pancreatic neurocircuits is still largely unknown. We aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo modulation of brainstem vagal circuits controlling pancreatic secretion. Using patch clamp techniques on identified vagal pancreas-projecting neurones, we studied the effects of metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) agents in relation to the effects of exendin-4, a glucagon-like peptide 1 analogue, cholecystokinin (CCK) and pancreatic polypeptide (PP). An in vivo anaesthetized rat preparation was used to measure pancreatic exocrine secretion (PES) and plasma insulin following microinjection of metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) agonists and exendin-4 in the brainstem. Group II and III mGluR agonists (2R,4R-4-aminopyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylate (APDC) and L(+)-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid (L-AP4), respectively) decreased the frequency of miniature inhibitory and excitatory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs and mEPSCs, respectively) in the majority of the neurones tested. All neurones responsive to L-AP4 were also responsive to APDC, but not vice versa. Further, in neurones where L-AP4 decreased mIPSC frequency, exendin-4 increased, while PP had no effect upon, mIPSC frequency. Brainstem microinjection of APDC or L-AP4 decreased plasma insulin secretion, whereas only APDC microinjections increased PES. Exendin-4 microinjections increased plasma insulin. Our results indicate a discrete organization of vagal circuits, which opens up promising avenues of research aimed at investigating the physiology of homeostatic autonomic neurocircuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Babic
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, 500 University Drive, MC H109, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
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Mussa BM, Verberne AJM. The dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus and regulation of pancreatic secretory function. Exp Physiol 2012; 98:25-37. [PMID: 22660814 DOI: 10.1113/expphysiol.2012.066472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Recent investigation of the factors and pathways that are involved in regulation of pancreatic secretory function (PSF) has led to development of a pancreatic vagovagal reflex model. This model consists of three elements, including pancreatic vagal afferents, the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV) and pancreatic vagal efferents. The DMV has been recognized as a major component of this model and so this review focuses on the role of this nucleus in regulation of PSF. Classically, the control of the PSF has been viewed as being dependent on gastrointestinal hormones and vagovagal reflex pathways. However, recent studies have suggested that these two mechanisms act synergistically to mediate pancreatic secretion. The DMV is the major source of vagal motor output to the pancreas, and this output is modulated by various neurotransmitters and synaptic inputs from other central autonomic regulatory circuits, including the nucleus of the solitary tract. Endogenously occurring excitatory (glutamate) and inhibitory amino acids (GABA) have a marked influence on DMV vagal output to the pancreas. In addition, a variety of neurotransmitters and receptors for gastrointestinal peptides and hormones have been localized in the DMV, emphasizing the direct and indirect involvement of this nucleus in control of PSF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashair M Mussa
- University of Melbourne, Department of Medicine, Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics Unit, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084 Australia
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Viard E, Rogers RC, Hermann GE. Systemic cholecystokinin amplifies vago-vagal reflex responses recorded in vagal motor neurones. J Physiol 2011; 590:631-46. [PMID: 22155934 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2011.224477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a potent regulator of visceral functions as a consequence of its actions on vago-vagal reflex circuit elements. This paper addresses three current controversies regarding the role of CCK to control gastric function via vago-vagal reflexes. Specifically: (a) whether CNS vs. peripheral (vagal afferent) receptors are dominant, (b) whether the long (58) vs. short (8) isoform is more potent and (c) whether nutritional status impacts the gain or even the direction of vago-vagal reflexes. Our in vivo recordings of physiologically identified gastric vagal motor neurones (gastric-DMN) involved in the gastric accommodation reflex (GAR) show unequivocally that: (a) receptors in the coeliac-portal circulation are more sensitive in amplifying gastric vagal reflexes; (b) in the periphery, CCK8 is more potent than CCK58; and (c) the nutritional status has a marginal effect on gastric reflex control. While the GAR reflex is more sensitive in the fasted rat, CCK amplifies this sensitivity. Thus, our results are in stark contrast to recent reports which have suggested that vago-vagal reflexes are inverted by the metabolic status of the animal and that this inversion could be mediated by CCK within the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard Viard
- Pennington Biomedical Research Centre, 6400 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
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Tong M, Qualls-Creekmore E, Browning KN, Travagli RA, Holmes GM. Experimental spinal cord injury in rats diminishes vagally-mediated gastric responses to cholecystokinin-8s. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2011; 23:e69-79. [PMID: 20950355 PMCID: PMC3021002 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2010.01616.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have shown recently that our model of experimental high-thoracic spinal cord injury (T3-SCI) mirrors the gastrointestinal clinical presentation of neurotrauma patients, whereby T3-SCI animals show diminished gastric emptying and dysmotility. In this study we used cholecystokinin as a model peptide to test the hypothesis that the T3-SCI induced gastroparesis is due, in part, to an impaired vagally-mediated response to gastrointestinal peptides. METHODS We measured the responses to sulfated cholecystokinin (CCK-8s) in control and T3-SCI (3 or 21 days after injury) rats utilizing: (i) c-fos expression in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) following peripherally administered CCK-8s; (ii) in vivo gastric tone and motility following unilateral microinjection of CCK-8s into the dorsal vagal complex (DVC); and (iii) whole cell recordings of glutamatergic synaptic inputs to NTS neurons. KEY RESULTS Our results show that: (i) medullary c-fos expression in response to peripheral CCK-8s was significantly lower in T3-SCI rats 3 days after the injury, but recovered to control values at 3 weeks post-SCI, (ii) Unilateral microinjection of CCK-8s in the DVC induced a profound gastric relaxation in control animals, but did not induce any response in T3-SCI rats at both 3 and 21 days after SCI, (iii) Perfusion with CCK-8s increased glutamatergic currents in 55% of NTS neurons from control rats, but failed to induce any response in NTS neurons from T3-SCI rats. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Our data indicate alterations of vagal responses to CCK-8s in T3-SCI rats that may reflect a generalized impairment of gastric vagal neurocircuitry, leading to a reduction of gastric functions after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kirsteen N. Browning
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033
| | - R. Alberto Travagli
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033
| | - Gregory M. Holmes
- Corresponding Author: Dr. Gregory M. Holmes, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, 6400 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808, Tel: +1 225 763 2520, fax; +1 225 763 2525,
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Qualls-Creekmore E, Tong M, Holmes GM. Gastric emptying of enterally administered liquid meal in conscious rats and during sustained anaesthesia. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2010; 22:181-5. [PMID: 19735361 PMCID: PMC2806511 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2009.01393.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric motility studies are frequently conducted with anaesthetized animal models. Some studies on the same animal species have reported differences in vagal control of the stomach that could not be explained solely by slightly different experimental conditions. A possible limitation in the comparison between similar studies relates to the use of different anaesthetic agents. Furthermore, anaesthetic effects may also limit generalizations between mechanistic studies of gastric function and the gastric function of conscious animals. In the present study, we used the [(13)C]-breath test following a liquid mixed-nutrient test meal (Ensure), 1 ml) with the aim to investigate the rate of gastric emptying in animals that were either conscious or anaesthetized with either Inactin or urethane. METHODS One week after determining the maximum (13)CO(2) concentration, time to peak [(13)C] recovery and gastric half emptying time in control, conscious rats, we repeated the experiment in the same rats anaesthetized with Inactin or urethane. KEY RESULTS Our data show that Inactin anaesthesia prolonged the time to peak [(13)C] recovery but did not significantly reduce the maximum (13)CO(2) concentration nor delay gastric half emptying time. Conversely, urethane anaesthesia resulted in a significant slowing of all parameters of gastric emptying as measured by the maximum (13)CO(2) concentration, time to peak [(13)C] recovery and half emptying time. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Our data indicate that Inactin(R) anaesthesia does not significantly affect gastric emptying while urethane anaesthesia profoundly impairs gastric emptying. We suggest that Inactin(R), not urethane, is the more suitable anaesthetic for gastrointestinal research.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Qualls-Creekmore
- Neurotrauma and Nutrition Laboratory, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
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Browning KN, Travagli RA. Modulation of inhibitory neurotransmission in brainstem vagal circuits by NPY and PYY is controlled by cAMP levels. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2009; 21:1309-e126. [PMID: 19622099 PMCID: PMC3062491 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2009.01367.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic polypeptides such as neuropeptide Y (NPY) and peptide YY (PYY) exert profound, vagally mediated effects on gastrointestinal (GI) motility. Vagal efferent outflow to the GI tract is determined principally by tonic GABAergic synaptic inputs onto dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV) neurons, yet neither peptide modulates GABAergic transmission. We showed recently that opioid peptides appear similarly ineffective because of the low resting cAMP levels. Using whole cell recordings from identified DMV neurons, we aimed to correlate the influence of brainstem cAMP levels with the ability of pancreatic polypeptides to modulate GABAergic synaptic transmission. Neither NPY, PYY, nor the Y1 or Y2 receptor selective agonists [Leu,Pro]NPY or NPY(3-36) respectively, inhibited evoked inhibitory postsynaptic current (eIPSC) amplitude unless cAMP levels were elevated by forskolin or 8-bromo-cAMP, by exposure to adenylate cyclase-coupled modulators such as cholecystokinin octapeptide (sulfated) (CCK-8s) or thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH), or by vagal deafferentation. The inhibition of eIPSC amplitude by [Leu,Pro]NPY or NPY(3-36) was stable for approximately 30 min following the initial increase in cAMP levels. Thereafter, the inhibition declined gradually until the agonists were again ineffective after 60 min. Analysis of spontaneous and miniature currents revealed that such inhibitory effects were due to actions at presynaptic Y1 and Y2 receptors. These results suggest that, similar to opioid peptides, the effects of pancreatic polypeptides on GABAergic transmission depend upon the levels of cAMP within gastric inhibitory vagal circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- K N Browning
- Neuroscience, PBRC-LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The biology of the pancreas is exquisitely complex and involves both endocrine and exocrine functions that are regulated by an integrated array of neural and hormonal processes. This review discusses recent developments in the regulation of both endocrine and exocrine secretion from the pancreas. RECENT FINDINGS New data suggest that cholecystokinin can stimulate neurons located in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus. Addressing a controversial topic, recent evidence suggests a direct secretory action of cholecystokinin on human acinar cells. An emerging concept is that some hormones and peptides such as melatonin, ghrelin, obestatin and leptin perform dual functions in the pancreas by regulating secretion and maintaining metabolic homeostasis. The regulation of pancreatic secretion by several appetite-controlling neuropeptides such as ghrelin, orexin A and neuropeptide Y is also discussed. Recent data highlight findings that mechanisms of hormone action may be different between species possibly due to a divergence in signaling pathways during evolution. SUMMARY The regulation of the secretory function of the pancreas by numerous hormones suggests that there are multiple and perhaps redundant signals governing the control of this important organ. Understanding these diverse pathways is essential to the treatment of pancreatitis, diabetes and obesity.
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Holmes GM, Tong M, Travagli RA. Effects of brain stem cholecystokinin-8s on gastric tone and esophageal-gastric reflex. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2009; 296:G621-31. [PMID: 19136379 PMCID: PMC2660178 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.90567.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The actions of cholecystokinin (CCK) on gastrointestinal functions occur mainly via paracrine effects on peripheral sensory vagal fibers, which engage vago-vagal brain stem circuits to convey effector responses back to the gastrointestinal tract. Recent evidence suggests, however, that CCK also affects brain stem structures directly. Many electrophysiological studies, including our own, have shown that brain stem vagal circuits are excited by sulfated CCK (CCK-8s) directly, and we have further demonstrated that CCK-8s induces a remarkable degree of plasticity in GABAergic brain stem synapses. In the present study, we used fasted, anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats to investigate the effects of brain stem administration of CCK-8s on gastric tone before and after activation of the esophageal-gastric reflex. CCK-8s microinjected in the dorsal vagal complex (DVC) or applied on the floor of the fourth ventricle induced an immediate and transient decrease in gastric tone. Upon recovery of gastric tone to baseline values, the gastric relaxation induced by esophageal distension was attenuated or even reversed. The effects of CCK-8s were antagonized by vagotomy or fourth ventricular, but not intravenous, administration of the CCK-A antagonist lorglumide, suggesting a central, not peripheral, site of action. The gastric relaxation induced by DVC microinjection of CCK-8s was unaffected by pretreatment with systemic bethanecol but was completely blocked by NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, suggesting a nitrergic mechanism of action. These data suggest that 1) brain stem application of CCK-8s induces a vagally mediated gastric relaxation; 2) the CCK-8s-induced gastric relaxation is mediated via activation of nonadrenergic, noncholinergic pathways; and 3) CCK-8s reverses the esophageal-gastric reflex transiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M. Holmes
- Department of Neuroscience, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
| | - Melissa Tong
- Department of Neuroscience, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
| | - R. Alberto Travagli
- Department of Neuroscience, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
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Pancreatic duct secretion: experimental methods, ion transport mechanisms and regulation. J Physiol Biochem 2008; 64:243-57. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03178846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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