PEPTIDERGIC AND ADRENERGIC-INNERVATION OF PANCREATIC GANGLIA

Abstract

Immunocytochemical studies have revealed the presence of nerves showing vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), substance P (SP), enkephalin and COOH-terminal gastrin/CCK [cholecystokinin] immunoreactivity in the feline pancreas. Most peptide-containing nerve fibers are detected in ganglia of the pancreas, where they appear to innervate the ganglionic cell bodies. Adrenergic nerve fibers are also detected in pancreatic ganglia. The peptidergic and adrenergic nerves are only occasionally detected in the vicinity of pancreatic exocrine cells. VIP, SP, enkephalin and gastrin/CCK exert strong effects on the secretory functions of the pancreas. The ganglia may represent an important physiological site of action for these peptides and for norepinephrine.