Quantitative aspects of response of canine pancreas to duodenal acidification

Abstract

The pancreatic response to the introduction of hydrochloric acid into the duodenum at various rates was studied in conscious dogs. The flow rate of pancreatic secretion and the bicarbonate output were found to be related to the amount of titratable acid introduced into the duodenum per unit time, and there was no apparent relationship to the volume or concentration of acid infused. High rates of acid introduction caused an increase in the pancreatic protein output. The peak rates of pancreatic secretion in response to secretin or histamine were higher than could be attained with exogenous duodenal acidification. The pancreatic response to a meat meal was increased when the food was given in divided portions at intervals of 30 min.