PROOF OF A HORMONAL MECHANISM FOR GASTRIC SECRETION—THE HUMORAL TRANSMISSION OF THE DISTENTION STIMULUS

Abstract

Distention of the pyloric portion of the stomach stimulates the secretion of HC1 by the fundic glands. This effect still occurs when all nervous connections between the stimulated portion of the stomach and the portion responding with secretion have been interrupted. This interruption can be accomplished by subcut. transplantation of either the part of the stomach which is to be stimulated, namely the pyloric portion, or the part which responds to the stimulus, the fundic portion. This demonstration of the humoral transmission of the disten-tion stimulus is considered to constitute conclusive evidence for the existence of a hormone for gastric secretion.