THE REGULATION OF THE FLOW OF BILE

Abstract

Rhythmical to-nus changes were obtained from the gall bladder of dogs under barbital anesthesia. These were only slightly affected by drugs given intravenously. Edema of the gall bladder prevents the appearance of tonus changes. Contractions of the gall bladder that could be considered an important factor in bile flow following a fat meal were not obtained. No evidence was found that would lend support to the theory of a reciprocal activity between the gall bladder and sphincter of Oddi. It would seem that the gall bladder plays a passive role in bile flow and that peristalsis and tonus of the duodenum are important factors.