Effect of prostaglandins E1 and E2 on intestinal motility in the guinea‐pig and rat

Abstract

1 . Prostaglandins E₁ and E₂ affected intestinal activity both in vitro and in vivo. 2 . Serosal application of prostaglandin to guinea-pig isolated ileum stimulated the longitudinal muscle but reduced peristaltic contractions of the circular muscle and the propulsion of fluid through the gut. Intraluminal application had little effect. 3 . Injection of prostaglandin into the bloodstream of anaesthetized rats stimulated the longitudinal muscle of the ileum and increased the intraluminal pressure. A similar response sometimes occurred in the guinea-pig, but in general the effect was variable. 4 . Release of prostaglandin in the gut wall, but probably not into the blood or into the lumen of the gut, may play a part in controlling intestinal motility.