Does L-carnitine prevent cadmium-induced damage in gastrointestinal contractility and histological changes in prepubertal rat / ¿La L-carnitina previene el daño inducido por cadmio en la contractilidad gastrointestinal y los cambios histológicos en ratas prepúberes?

SUMMARY: Cadmium (Cd) is the industrial and environmental toxic heavy metal which is found in air, water and soil. Cd, adversely affects many organs in humans such as kidney, intestine, liver, testis and lungs. L-carnitine (LC) is an important agent that plays essential role in energy metabolism. In our study, we aimed to work out whether LC application has any protective effect on intestinal contractility and morphologic damage of prepubertal rat duodenum on Cd-induced toxicity. Twenty eight prepubertal female Wistar rats were divided into four groups. The first group is control (C), second group; Cd group; Cadmium chloride was given 2 mg/kg 28 days with a one-day break by i.p. The third group; Cd+LC, which cadmium chloride was given 2 mg/kg i.p. and LC was given orally by gastric lavage. The LC dose was given as 75 mg/kg. The fourth group; LC, which only LC was given orally. The intestinal segments were isolated and suspended in tissue bath. Contractile responses were induced by acetylcholine (ACh) and relaxation was achieved with phenylephrine. Also the segments were examined for histological changes by light microscopy. Ach-induced contractions were higher in Cd+LC, LC, and control group compared to the Cd group in duodenal segments. The phenylephrine-induced relaxations were lower in Cd groups as compared with Control, Cd+LC and LC group in duodenal segments. In Cd group intestinal morphology was observed to be severely damaged whereas in Cd+LC group the damage was noticeably lower. Cd administration caused severe cellular damage and decreased gastrointestinal motility. Treatment with the LC has affected the gastrointestinal contractility and reduced the damage in intestinal morphology, which occured after Cd application.

El cadmio (Cd) es el metal pesado tóxico industrial y ambiental que se encuentra en el aire, el agua y el suelo. El Cd afecta negativamente a muchos órganos humanos, como los riñones, los intestinos, el hígado, los testículos y los pulmones. La L-carnitina (LC) es un agente importante que juega un rol esencial en el metabolismo energético. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar si la aplicación de LC tiene algún efecto protector sobre la contractilidad intestinal y el daño morfológico del duodeno de rata prepuberal sobre la toxicidad inducida por Cd. Veintiocho ratas Wistar hembras prepúberes se dividieron en cuatro grupos. El primer grupo control (C), segundo grupo; grupo cd; Se administró cloruro de cadmio 2 mg/kg durante 28 días con un descanso de un día por vía i.p. El tercer grupo; Cd+LC, al que se administró cloruro de cadmio 2 mg/kg i.p. y LC se administró por vía oral mediante lavado gástrico. La dosis de LC se administró como 75 mg/kg. El cuarto grupo; LC, al cual solo LC se administraba por vía oral. Los segmentos intestinales fueron aislados y suspendieron en baño de tejido. Las respuestas contráctiles fueron inducidas por acetilcolina (ACh) y la relajación se logró con fenilefrina. También se examinaron los segmentos en busca de cambios histológicos mediante microscopía óptica. Las contracciones inducidas por Ach fueron mayores en Cd+LC, LC y el grupo control en comparación con el grupo Cd en los segmentos duodenales. Las relajaciones inducidas por fenilefrina fueron menores en los grupos Cd en comparación con el grupo Control, Cd+LC y LC en los segmentos duodenales. En el grupo Cd se observó que la morfología intestinal estaba severamente dañada mientras que en el grupo Cd+LC el daño fue notablemente menor. La administración de Cd causó daño celular severo y disminución de la motilidad gastrointestinal. El tratamiento con LC afectó la contractilidad gastrointestinal y redujo el daño en la morfología intestinal, que ocurría después de la aplicación de Cd.

The effects of L-carnitine on gastrointestinal contractility and histological changes in rat intestinal ischemia-reperfusion Injury / Efectos de la l-carnitina sobre la contractilidad gastrointestinal y los cambios histológicos en la lesión por isquemia-reperfusión intestinal de rata

SUMMARY: Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) of the small intestine causes serious abdominal pathologies including tissue dysfunction and organ failure. L-carnitine (L-C), a powerful antioxidant, may help lessen the severity of these pathological effects since it plays a key role in energy metabolism. In this work we aimed to study the effects of L-C on the isolated ileal and duodenal contractility and histological changes in intestinal ischemia and reperfusion injury. Twenty eight Wistar rats were divided into four groups. The first group is the control group. Second group, I/R group, had rats submitted to 45-minutes of intestinal ischemia and to 45-minutes reperfusion. The third group, I/R+ L-C group, rats were treated with L-C 5 minutes before reperfusion and than submitted to ischemia. The fourth group, included rats that were treated with L-C without ischemia or reperfusion. Intestinal ischemia was conducted by obstructing superior mesentery arteries by silk loop. The ileal and duodenal segments were isolated and suspended in tissue bath. Contractile responses were induced by acetylcholine (Ach) and relaxation was achieved with phenylephrine. At the same time the terminal ileal and duodenal segments were examined for histological changes. Ach-induced contraction responses were higher in the I/R+L-C group, the L-C group, and the control group compared to the I/R group, in both ileal and duodenal segments. On the other hand, the phenylephrine-induced relaxations were higher in the I/R+L-C and L-C groups, especially in duodenal segments. In I/R group intestinal morphology was observed to be severely damaged whereas in I/R+L-C group the damage was noticeably lower possibly due to protective properties of L-C. I/R injury caused severe cellular damage response within the muscularis resulting in decreased gastrointestinal motility. Treatment with the L-C has significantly affected the gastrointestinal contractility. Also L-C treatment reduced the damage in intestinal morphology that occurs after IR injury.

RESUMEN: La isquemia-reperfusión (I/R) del intestino delgado provoca graves patologías abdominales que incluyen disfunción tisular y falla orgánica. La L-carnitina (L-C), un poderoso antioxidante, puede ayudar a disminuir la gravedad de estos efectos patológicos, ya que desempeña un papel clave en el metabolismo energético. El objetivo de este trabajo fue estudiar los efectos de L-C sobre la contractilidad ileal y duodenal aislada y los cambios histológicos en la lesión por isquemia y reperfusión intestinal. Se dividieron 28 ratas Wistar en cuatro grupos. El primer grupo fue el control. El segundo grupo, grupo I/R, de ratas sometidas durante 45 minutos de isquemia intestinal y a 45 minutos de reperfusión. El tercer grupo, grupo I/R+ L-C, las ratas se trataron con L-C, 5 minutos antes de la reperfusión y luego se sometieron a isquemia. El cuarto grupo, las ratas fueron tratadas con L-C sin isquemia ni reperfusión. La isquemia intestinal se realizó obstruyendo la arteria mesentérica superior con un asa de seda. Los segmentos ileal y duodenal se aislaron y suspendieron en un baño de tejido. Las respuestas contráctiles fueron inducidas por acetilcolina (Ach) y la relajación se logró con fenilefrina. Al mismo tiempo, se examinaron cambios histológicos de los segmentos del íleon terminal y del duodeno. Las respuestas de contracción inducidas por Ach fueron mayores en el grupo I/R+L-C, el grupo L-C y el grupo control en comparación con el grupo I/R, tanto en el segmento ileal como en el duodenal. Por otra parte, las relajaciones inducidas por fenilefrina fueron mayores en los grupos I/R+L-C y L-C, especialmente en los segmentos duodenales. En el grupo I/R se observó que la morfología intestinal estaba dañada significativamente, mientras que en el grupo I/R+L-C el daño fue notablemente menor, posiblemente debido a las propiedades protectoras de L-C. La lesión por I/R causó una respuesta de daño celular severo dentro de la capa muscular que resultó en una disminución de la motilidad gastrointestinal. El tratamiento con L-C afectó significativamente la contractilidad gastrointestinal. Por otra parte, el tratamiento L-C redujo el daño en la morfología intestinal que ocurre después de la lesión por IR.

The effect of probiotics on ıntestinal motility in an experimental short bowel model

Abstract Purpose To investigate the effect of probiotics on spontaneous contractions of smooth muscle isolated from jejunum and ileum of rat model. Methods Four rat groups were created (n=8, in each) including control (Group 1), control+probiotic (Group 2), short bowel (Group 3), and short bowel+probiotic (Group 4). Groups 1 and 2 underwent sham operation, Groups 3 and 4 underwent massive bowel resection. Bifidobacterium Lactis was administered in Groups 2 and 4 daily (P.O.) for three weeks. On postoperative week 3, rats were sacrificed, and jejunum and ileum smooth muscle were isolated for organ bath. Muscle contraction changes were analyzed before and after addition of antagonists. Results Short bowel group exhibited increased amplitude and frequency of spontaneous contractions. The addition of probiotics significantly decreased enhanced amplitude and frequency of bowel contraction in short bowel group and returned to control values. L-NNA increased amplitude and frequency of contractions in all groups. While indomethacin and nimesulide increased the amplitude in all groups, the frequency was only increased in jejunum. Hexamethonium and tetrodotoxin did not change the contraction characteristics in all groups. Conclusion We suggest that early use of probiotics may significantly regulate bowel motility, and accordingly improve absorption of nutrients in short bowel syndrome.

TNF-α inhibits SCF, ghrelin, and substance P expressions through the NF-κB pathway activation in interstitial cells of Cajal

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon where intestinal motility is disturbed. Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are required to maintain normal intestinal motility. In the present study, we assessed the effect of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) on viability and apoptosis of ICC, as well as on the expression of stem cell factor (SCF), ghrelin, and substance P. ICC were derived from the small intestines of Swiss albino mice. Cell viability and apoptosis were measured using CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry, respectively. ELISA was used to measure the concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6, ghrelin, substance P, and endothelin-1. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to measure the expression of SCF. Western blotting was used to measure the expression of apoptosis-related proteins, interleukins, SCF, and NF-κB signaling pathway proteins. TNF-α induced inflammatory injury in ICC by decreasing cell viability and increasing apoptosis and levels of IL-1β and IL-6. TNF-α decreased the levels of SCF, ghrelin, and substance P, but had no effect on endothelin-1. TNF-α down-regulated expressions of SCF, ghrelin, and substance P by activating the NF-κB pathway in ICC. In conclusion, TNF-α down-regulated the expressions of SCF, ghrelin, and substance P via the activation of the NF-κB pathway in ICC.

Lipase Supplementation before a High-Fat Meal Reduces Perceptions of Fullness in Healthy Subjects

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Postprandial symptoms of fullness and abdominal discomfort are common after fatty meals. Gastric lipases hydrolyze 10% to 20% of dietary triglycerides during the stomach trituration period of digestion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of acid-resistant lipase on upper gastrointestinal symptoms, including fullness and bloating, as well as on gastric myoelectrical activity after healthy subjects ingested a high-fat, liquid meal. METHODS: This study utilized a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design with 16 healthy volunteers who ingested either a capsule containing 280 mg of acid-resistant lipase or a placebo immediately before a fatty meal (355 calories, 55% fat). Participants rated their stomach fullness, bloating, and nausea before and at timed intervals for 60 minutes after the meal. Electrogastrograms were obtained to assess the gastric myoelectrical activity. RESULTS: Stomach fullness, bloating, and nausea increased significantly 10 minutes after ingestion of the fatty meal (p<0.01), whereas normal gastric myoelectrical activity decreased and tachygastria increased (p<0.05). With lipase, reports of stomach fullness were significantly lower compared with placebo (p<0.05), but no effect on gastric myoelectrical activity or other upper gastrointestinal symptoms was observed. CONCLUSIONS: The high-fat meal induced transient fullness, bloating, nausea, and tachygastria in healthy individuals, consistent with post-prandial distress syndrome. Acid-resistant lipase supplementation significantly decreased stomach fullness.

Paralytic Ileus and Prophylactic Gastrointestinal Motility Medication after Spinal Operation

PURPOSE: To investigate the prevalence of paralytic ileus after spinal operation in the supine or prone operative position and to determine the efficacy of prophylactic gastrointestinal motility medications in preventing symptomatic paralytic ileus after a spinal operation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients received spinal surgery in the supine or prone operative position. The study period was divided into two phases: first, to analyze the prevalence of radiographic and symptomatic paralytic ileus after a spinal operation, and second, to determine the therapeutic effects of prophylactic gastrointestinal motility medications (postoperative intravenous injection of scopolamine butylbromide and metoclopramide hydrochloride) on symptomatic paralytic ileus after a spinal operation. RESULTS: Basic demographic data were not different. In the first phase of this study, 27 patients (32.9%) with radiographic paralytic ileus and 11 patients (13.4%) with symptomatic paralytic ileus were observed. Radiographic paralytic ileus was more often noted in patients who underwent an operation in the prone position (p=0.044); whereas the occurrence of symptomatic paralytic ileus was not different between the supine and prone positioned patients (p=0.385). In the second phase, prophylactic medications were shown to be ineffective in preventing symptomatic paralytic ileus after spinal surgery [symptomatic paralytic ileus was observed in 11.1% (4/36) with prophylactic medication and 16.7% (5/30) with a placebo, p=0.513]. CONCLUSION: Spinal surgery in the prone position was shown to increase the likelihood of radiographic paralytic ileus occurrence, but not symptomatic paralytic ileus. Unfortunately, the prophylactic medications to prevent symptomatic paralytic ileus after spine surgery were shown to be ineffective.

Effects of a continuous rate infusion of butorphanol in isoflurane-anesthetized horses on cardiorespiratory parameters, recovery quality, gastrointestinal motility and serum cortisol concentrations

PURPOSE: To assess the cardiorespiratory parametes, recovery, gastrointestinal motility and serum cortisol concentrations in horses anesthetized with isoflurane with or without a continuous rate infusion (CRI) of butorphanol for orchiectomy. METHODS: Twelve adult, intact, male horses weighing 332 ± 55 kg were included in the study. Xilazine was administered as premedication. Anesthesia was induced with ketamine and midazolam and maintained with isoflurane. Butorphanol (0.025 mg kg-1 bolus) or an equivalent volume of saline (0.9%) was given intravenously followed by a CRI of butorphanol (BG) (13 µg kg-1 hour-1) or saline (CG). Cardiorespiratory variables were recorded before (T0) and every 15 minutes for 75 minutes after the start of infusion. Serum cortisol concentration was measured at T0 and 60 minutes, and 30 minutes and 19 hours after the horse stood up. Recovery from anesthesia was evaluated using a scoring system. Gastrointestinal motility was evaluated before anesthesia and during 24 hours after recovery. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between groups in cardiopulmonary variables, or recovery scores or serum cortisol concentrations. A reduction in gastrointestinal motility was recorded for 60 minutes in BG. CONCLUSIONS: Continuous rate infusion of butorphanol in horses anesthetized with isoflurane did not adversely affect the cardiopulmonary variables monitored, or recovery scores. A small but statistically significant reduction in gastrointestinal motility occurred in the butorphanol group. .

usage of opioids and their adverse effects in gastrointestinal practice: a review

Opium is one of the oldest herbal medicines currently used as an analgesic, sedative and antidiarrheal treatment. The effects of opium are principally mediated by the micro-, kappa- and delta-opioid receptors. Opioid substances consist of all natural and synthetic alkaloids that are derived from opium. Most of their effects on gastrointestinal motility and secretion result from suppression of neural activity. Inhibition of gastric emptying, increase in sphincter tone, changes in motor patterns, and blockage of peristalsis result from opioid use. Common adverse effects of opioid administration include sedation, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dependency and tolerance, and respiratory depression. The most common adverse effect of opioid use is constipation. Although stool softeners are frequently used to decrease opioid-induced bowel dysfunction, however they are not efficacious. Possibly, the use of specific opioid receptor antagonists is a more suitable approach. Opioid antagonists, both central and peripheral, could affect gastrointestinal function and visceromotor sensitivity, which suggests an important role for endogenous opioid peptides in the control of gastrointestinal physiology. Underlying diseases or medications known to influence the central nervous system [CNS] often accelerate the opioid's adverse effects. However, changing the opioid and/or route of administration could also decrease their adverse effects. Appropriate patient selection, patient education and discussion regarding potential adverse effects may assist physicians in maximizing the effectiveness of opioids, while reducing the number and severity of adverse effects

The Effects of Prucalopride on Postoperative Ileus in Guinea Pigs

PURPOSE: Postoperative ileus (POI) is an impairment of coordinated gastrointestinal (GI) motility that develops as a consequence of abdominal surgery and is a major factor contributing to patient morbidity and prolonged hospitalization. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 (5-HT4) receptor agonists, which stimulate excitatory pathways, on a POI model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The experimental model of POI in guinea pigs was created by laparotomy, gentle manipulation of the cecum for 60 seconds, and closure by suture, all under anesthesia. Different degrees of restoration of GI transit were measured by the migration of charcoal. Colonic transit was indirectly assessed via measurement of fecal pellet output every hour for 5 hours after administration of various doses of mosapride, tegaserod, prucalopride, and 5-HT. RESULTS: Charcoal transit assay showed that various 5-HT4 receptor agonists can accelerate delayed upper GI transit in a dose-dependent manner. However, fecal pellet output assay suggested that only prucalopride had a significant effect in accelerating colonic motility in POI. CONCLUSION: Although mosapride, tegaserod, and prucalopride produce beneficial effects to hasten upper GI transit in the POI model, prucalopride administered orally restores lower GI transit as well as upper GI transit after operation in a conscious guinea pig. This drug may serve as a useful candidate for examination in a clinical trial for POI.

Does metoclopramide impair anastomotic healing of the left colon of rats? / A metoclopramida prejudica a cicatrização de anastomoses do cólon esquerdo de ratos?

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of metoclopramide on the formation of adhesion and the healing of left colonic anastomoses in rats. METHODS: Forty rats underwent sectioning of the left colon and end-to-end anastomosis and were divided into two groups of 20 animals for the administration of metoclopramide (experimental group - E) or saline solution (control group - C). Each group was divided into subgroups of 10 animals each to be killed on the third (E3 and C3) or seventh postoperative day (E7 and C7). Adhesion was assessed, and a colonic segment containing the anastomosis was removed for analysis of breaking strength and hydroxyproline concentration. RESULTS: There were no deaths or dehiscence on the 3rd postoperative day. There was one death and one blocked anastomotic dehiscence in the E7 group. No significant differences between groups were found in the analysis of clinical outcome, intra-cavity adhesion, adhesion to the anastomosis or breaking strength on the 3rd and 7th postoperative day. Hydroxyproline concentration was higher in the control group on the 3rd (p=0.006) but not on the 7th postoperative day (p=0.241). CONCLUSION: Metoclopramide did not have harmful effects on the healing of intestinal anastomoses in rats.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos da metoclopramida sobre a formação de aderências e a cicatrização de anastomoses de cólon esquerdo de ratos. MÉTODOS: 40 ratos distribuídos em dois grupos contendo 20 animais, para administração de metoclopramida (grupo experimental - E) ou solução de NaCl 0,9 por cento (grupo controle - C). Cada grupo foi dividido em subgrupos contendo 10 animais, para eutanásia no terceiro (E3 e C3) ou sétimo dia (E7 e C7) de pós-operatório. Os ratos foram submetidos à secção do cólon esquerdo e anastomose término-terminal. No dia da re-laparotomia foi avaliada a quantidade total de aderências e removido um segmento colônico contendo a anastomose para análise da força de ruptura e concentração de hidroxiprolina. RESULTADOS: Não houve mortes ou deiscências no 3º dia de pós-operatório. No grupo E7 ocorreram uma morte e uma deiscência de anastomose bloqueada. Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos em relação à evolução clínica, quantidade de aderências intra-cavitárias ou à anastomose e resistência tênsil no 3º ou 7º pós-operatório. A concentração de hidroxiprolina foi maior no grupo metoclopramida no 3º (p=0,006) mas não no 7º dia de pós-operatório (p=0,241) CONCLUSÃO: A metoclopramida não apresenta efeito deletério sobre a cicatrização de anastomoses intestinais em ratos.

Pharmacological study of aqueous extract of Scoparia dulcis L. on gastrointestinal tract

The research study was conducted in an attempt to analyze the relative pharmacological effect of the aqueous extracts of Scoparia dulcis L. on the gastrointestinal tract. The Gastrointestinal Motility [GI-Motility] test, Castor oil and MgS0[4] induced diarrhoeal tests were performed utilizing laboratory mice. Scoparia dulcis L. showed laxative effect as revealed by the GI-Motility test, the Castor oil induced and MgSO[4] induced diarrhoeal tests

Histamine receptors; responses and modulations towards agonist and antagonist on the rabbit ileum, in vitro study

This research work deals with the mechanism of action involved in determining the therapeutic potential of histamine and its blockers in gastrointestinal motility. Rabbits of equal weights were used in this study. They were brought from the animal house of BMSI, sacrificed in the Pharmacology Research laboratory. lleum strip were isolated and with special recommended methodology, longitudinal and circular muscles were separated. Individual muscle strip were then exposed separately to the desired drugs in the organ bath and reading were recorded on the polygraph machine. Basic Medical Sciences Institute, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi. 1996 to 1998. Histamine increases the contractile effects of longitudinal and circular muscle. H[1] and H[2] blockers potentiate its effects on longitudinal muscle while in circular muscle no change was observed with H[1] blocker whereas H[2] blocker antagonized the histaminic effects. However when H[1] blocker applied directly it increases the amplitude of contraction in longitudinal and circular muscle whereas H[2] blocker decreases the height of contractions. Histamine in the presence of H[1] and H[2] blocker augmented their effects in longitudinal muscle and antagonizes in circular layer. Gastrointestinal motility can be controlled through histamine and its antagonist. New drugs can be formulated on the basis of this study for the regulation of intestinal motility

Verapamil and loperamide; to compare the inhibitory effects on isolated guinea pig ileum

In smooth muscle cells, an increase in cytosolic free calcium concentration is an essential step for the cells to contract. The increase in calcium concentration occurs by influx from the extra cellular medium through calcium ion channels. Calcium channels have potential role in regulation of motility in gastrointestinal tract so there is growing interest in calcium channel blockers as a potential pharmacological approach to the treatment of various gastrointestinal motor disorders. In this study we evaluate the inhibitory effects of verapamil on spontaneous contractions of isolated guinea pig ileum and compare them with inhibitory effects of loperamide. Isolated intestinal segments of sixteen guinea pigs were used in this study. Serial dilutions [10-18 -10-3 gm/ml] of loperamide and verapamil were administered; effects observed and recorded by 7B Grass Polygraph machine. We observed that at lower concentrations, loperamide showed more inhibitory effects than verapamil while at higher concentrations [10-4 and 10-3 gm/ml] verapamil showed more inhibitory effects than loperamide on the contractions of isolated guinea pig ileum. This study gave us a clue that verapamil found a potent inhibitor of small intestinal contractions as loperamide. However one can presume further that calcium channel blocker verapamil acting on calcium channel receptor on GIT will be developed with more specific effects on smooth muscle of intestinal tract

Efeito do tratamento convencional da constipação crônica funcional no tempo de trânsito orocecal e colônico total e segmentar / Effects of conventional treatment of chronic functional constipation on total and segmental colonic and orocecal transit times

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito do tratamento convencional da constipação crônica funcional no tempo de trânsito colônico total e segmentar e no tempo de trânsito orocecal. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos 34 pacientes com constipação funcional atendidos consecutivamente em ambulatório especializado. O tempo de trânsito colônico total e segmentar foi avaliado com marcadores radiopacos. O tempo de trânsito orocecal da lactulose e do feijão foi avaliado com teste do hidrogênio no ar expirado. O tratamento constou de desimpactação, orientações gerais e de consumo de dieta rica em fibra alimentar e administração de óleo mineral. RESULTADOS: Na admissão, dismotilidade colônica foi encontrada em 71,9 por cento (23/32) dos pacientes. Todos os pacientes que realizaram corretamente o tratamento apresentaram melhora clínica na sexta semana do tratamento quando 82,6 por cento (19/23) daqueles com dismotilidade na admissão apresentaram normalização ou diminuição da gravidade no padrão de trânsito colônico. Observou-se redução do tempo de trânsito (medianas) entre a admissão e a oitava semana de tratamento: trânsito orocecal da lactulose (de 70 para 50 minutos, p = 0,002), orocecal do feijão (de 240 para 220 minutos, p = 0,002) e colônico total (de 69,5 para 37,0 horas, p = 0,001). A necessidade de uso de óleo mineral para controle da constipação aos 12 meses de tratamento associou-se com persistência de trânsito colônico total superior a 62 horas na oitava semana de tratamento (p = 0,014). CONCLUSÃO: O programa terapêutico convencional proporcionou bons resultados independentemente da presença ou não de dismotilidade colônica na admissão ao estudo. As anormalidades da motilidade digestiva na constipação funcional da criança podem apresentar reversibilidade e ser de natureza secundária.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of conventional treatment of chronic functional constipation on total and segmental colonic transit times and on orocecal transit time. METHODS: A total of 34 consecutive patients with functional constipation attending a specialized outpatient clinic were included in the study. Total and segmental colonic transit times were assessed using radiopaque markers. Hydrogen breath test was used to evaluate lactulose and bean orocecal transit times. Treatment consisted of disimpaction, general and dietary fiber intake instruction, and mineral oil administration. RESULTS: At admission, colonic dysmotility was found in 71.9 percent (23/32) of patients. All patients who complied with the treatment showed improvement of clinical symptoms after 6 weeks of treatment, when 82.6 percent (19/23) of those with dysmotility at admission returned to normal or reduced the severity of colonic transit patterns. Transit time decreased (medians) between admission and eighth week of treatment: lactulose orocecal transit (from 70 to 50 minutes, p = 0.002), bean orocecal transit (from 240 to 220 minutes, p = 0.002), and total colonic transit (from 69.5 to 37.0 hours, p = 0.001). The need for mineral oil therapy for constipation after a 12-month treatment was associated with persistence of total colonic transit higher than 62 hours at the eighth week of treatment (p = 0.014). CONCLUSION: The conventional therapeutic approach yielded good results regardless of the presence or not of colonic dysmotility at inclusion in the study. Digestive tract motility abnormalities in functionally constipated children may be reversed, and may be secondary to constipation.

Effects of mosapride on motility of the small intestine and caecum in normal horses after jejunocaecostomy

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the prokinetic effects of mosapride with non-invasive assessment of myoelectrical activity in the small intestine and caecum of healthy horses after jejunocaecostomy. Six horses underwent celiotomy and jejunocaecostomy, and were treated with mosapride (treated group) at 1.5 mg/kg per osos once daily for 5 days after surgery. The other six horses did not receive treatment and were used as controls (non-treated group). The electrointestinography (EIG) maximum amplitude was used to measure intestinal motility. Motility significantly decreased following surgery. In the treated group, the EIG maximum amplitude of the small intestine was significantly higher than in the controls from day 6~31 after treatment. These findings clearly indicate that mosapride could overcome the decline of intestinal motility after jejunocaecostomy in normal horses.

Effect of cuminum extract on the motility of isolated rabbit jejunum

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of decoction of Syrian cuminum seeds [1:3 W/V] was evaluated on the isolated rabbit's jejunum. 2 ml of the extract was added to the [100mL] nutrient solution of the jejunum. Two parameters were used to evaluate the effect of cuminum extract: the frequency and width of the intestinal motility within 5 mints on the strip. Cuminum extract showed a significant inhibition on the width of the motility of isolated rabbit's jejunum [P< 0.05]. However this extract had no significant effect of the frequency of the motility. Cuminum cyminum water extract can inhibit the motility of rabbit's jejunum that support the traditional use of this plant as antispasmodic herb in the Syrian traditional medicine

Effect of Itopride Hydrochloride on the Ileal and Colonic Motility in Guinea Pig In Vitro

PURPOSE: Itopride hydrochloride (itopride) inhibits acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and antagonizes dopamine D(2) receptor, and has been used as a gastroprokinetic agent. However, its prokinetic effect on the small bowel or colon has not yet been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of itopride on motor functions of the ileum and colon in guinea pigs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The distal ileum was excised and the activity of peristaltic contraction was determined by measuring the amplitude and propagation velocity of peristaltic contraction. The distal colon was removed and connected to the chamber containing Krebs-Henseleit solution (K-H solution). Artificial fecal matter was inserted into the oral side of the lumen, and moved toward the anal side by intraluminal perfusion via peristaltic pump. Colonic transit times were measured by the time required for the artificial feces to move a total length of 10cm with 2-cm intervals. RESULTS: In the ileum, itopride accelerated peristaltic velocity at higher dosage (10(-10)-10(-6)M) whereas neostigmine accelerated it only with a lower dosage (10(-10)-10(-9)M). Dopamine (10(-8)M) decelerated the velocity that was recovered by itopride infusion. Itopride and neostigmine significantly shortened colonic transit at a higher dosage (10(-10)-10(-6)M). Dopamine (10(-8)M) delayed colonic transit time that was also recovered after infusion of itopride. CONCLUSION: Itopride has prokinetic effects on both the ileum and colon, which are regulated through inhibitory effects on AChE and antagonistic effects on dopamine D(2) receptor.

Subchronic and acute preclinic toxicity and some pharmacological effects of the water extract from leaves of Petiveria alliacea (Phytolaccaceae)

We tested the effects of the aqueous extract of Petiveria alliacea leaves on acute and sub-chronic toxicity, hematocrit and blood glucose level and intestinal motility of male albino NGP mice of 20 to 25 g mean weight. Treatments were in all cases doses of 1,000 and 2,000 mg/kg animal weight and a control treatment with 0.5 ml distilled water, using 10 animals per treatment and administered orally every day (5 days per week). Experimental periods were 18 and 70 days for acute and sub chronic toxicity, respectively. No mortality nor any toxicity signs could be observed. A slight but significant increase in the glucose levels during the first three weeks was observed with the 1,000 mg/kg dose but not for the higher 2,000 mg/kg dose. After administering the doses once after a starving period of six hours, no significant differences in intestinal motility could be found.

Se evaluaron los efectos del estracto acuoso de las hojas de Petiveria alliacea, en la toxicidad aguda y toxicidad subcrónica, hematocritos, niveles de glucosa en la sangre y motilidad intestinal del ratón macho albino NGP, con un peso promedio de 20 a 25g. En todos los casos los tratamientos fueron dosis de 1 000 y 2 000 mg/kg de peso del animal y un tratamiento control con 0.5 ml de agua destilada, usando 10 animales por tratamiento y administrado oralmente cinco días por semana. Los períodos experimentales fueron de 18 y 70 días para toxicidad aguda y toxicidad subcrónica, respectivamente. No se observaron signos de mortalidad ni de toxidad en ambas pruebas. Con la dosis de 1 000 mg/kg hubo un leve pero significativo incremento en los niveles de glucosa durante las primeras tres semanas, pero no con la dosis más alta de 2 000 mg/ kg. Después de administrar las dosis luego de un período de hambre de seis horas, no se encontraron diferencias significativas en la motilidad intestinal.

Role of 5HT in the modification of intestinal motility, in vitro study

To determine with the mechanism of action involved in the therapeutic potential of serotonin and its blocker on gastrointestinal motility. The standard method was used for obtaining the longitudinal and circular muscles strip of rabbit ileum for in vitro studies. Each muscle strip was exposed to serotonin and its blocker and the result obtained was recorded on polygraph apparatus. The effects were recorded in vice versa fashion i.e. agonist v/s antagonist and antagonist v/s agonist on longitudinal and circular muscle strip separately. Serotonin had depressant effect on the force of contraction. On addition of antagonist in the presence of agonist, the effects were increased. Longitudinal muscle showed more pronounced effect i.e. 52.7% with methysergide in comparison to circular muscle, which was 15.6%. Circular muscle showed reduction in the force of contraction with serotonin, which was increased on addition of antagonist, but still below the level of base line contraction. Serotonin when given from external source in vitro, decreased the force, however, there was minimal increase in the rate of contraction. Hence, serotonin decreases the intestinal motility giving an impression of having antispasmodic effect. The results of this study can be utilized in the development of new drug related to G.I. motility mediated through 5HT receptors

Evaluation of new gastro-intestinal prokinetic (ENGIP-II) study.

Non-ulcer dyspepsia is a common clinical disorder characterised by reduced gastric motility. Safety concerns have restricted use of currently available prokinetic drugs. Itopride is a new safer prokinetic drug with dopamine D2 antagonism and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory actions. The ENGIP-II study was conducted to investigate the efficacy, and safety of itopride in patients of non-ulcer dyspepsia. There were significant reductions in upper abdominal pain, heartburn frequency, gastro-oesophageal regurgitation, nausea, bloating, early satiety after meals at day 3 only; whereas significant improvements were noted in belching, anorexia at day 6 and in vomiting at day 9. Thus, ENGIP-II study shows that itopride was well tolerated patients and appears to be the drug of choice in patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia.