Central inhibitory action of prostaglandin E2 on gastric secretion in the rat.

The central nervous system action of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on gastric secretion was studied in conscious pylorus-ligated rats. It was found that 1-10 micrograms of PGE2 given i.c.v. reduced the gastric output of acid, pepsin and fluid in a dose-dependent manner whereas 30-300 micrograms was required for inhibition when given subcutaneously. Given i.c.v. 400 micrograms of indomethacin, a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin biosynthesis, enhanced gastric secretion but not when given intramuscularly. It is concluded that PGE2 has a central inhibitory action on gastric secretion in conscious rats. In addition, the possibility that PGE2 may be involved as inhibitory modulator in the central control of gastric secretion warrants further attention.