Multual effect of glucose and calcium on their rates of intestinal absorption in anesthetized rats

In the present experiments the possible interaction between intestinal calcium and glucose absorption was tested in vivo. 54 rats [200-220 gm, each] were used and anaesthetised by thiopental Na 60 mg/kg I.P., abdomen was opened and 2 canulae were inserted at the proximal and distal ends of the small intestine. After preliminary wash with warm N. saline, different solutions containing CaCI[2] isotonic [1.1 gm%] or hypertonic [2.2 gm%], with and without N. saline + glucose 596, were administered into the intestine through the proximal canula and retained for 15 minutes and then pushed out by air. Volume and glucose or calcium content of the administered and collected perfusates were estimated. Calcium absorption was enhanced significantly [P<0.01] in the presence of glucose. Alternatively, hypertonic calcium produced significant inhibition of glucose absorption [P< 0.05]. This inhibitory effect of calcium was almost abolished by the addition of the Ca[++]channel blocker 'verapamil' in 4 mg/kg. Verapamil also decreased intestinal absorption of calcium significantly [P