MOTOR CONTROL OF THE THORACIC DUCT

Abstract

The cisterna chyli and the venous ending of the thoracic duct were cannulated in cats. The flow through these channels was measured by recording the number of drops per unit time with a constant head of pressure of a perfusing fluid. When acetylcholine was added to the perfusing fluid, the flow decreased, indicating a constrictor effect. Conversely, perfusion with adrenaline resulted in an increased flow, which showed a dilator action. Intraven. inj. of these substances produced effects similar to those obtained when they were added to the perfusing fluid. Stimulation of the vagus nerve, like acetylcholine, had a constrictor action. In confirmation of early studies it is inferred that the lymph channels are contractile organs under nervous control. This contractility is one of the factors which governs the flow of lymph.