Gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) has a wide range of biological actions
, including stimulation of the frequency of antral contractions and de
laying gastric emptying. The present study was designed to evaluate th
e role of GRP in the control of gastric emptying of liquid test meals
in the rat. The emptying of methyl cellulose given by gavage to fasted
rats, or of saline given via the fistula to conscious gastric fistula
rats was not influenced by the GRP antagonists, NC-8-89 (Leu(13)-psi-
(CH2NH)-Leu(14)-bombesin) and 2258U89 ((de-NH2)Phe(19),D-Ala(24),D-Pro
(26)psi (CH2NH)Phe(27)(-GRP (19-27)), at 2 mg/kg, s.c. However, both a
ntagonists (0.02, 0.2 and 2 mg/kg) reversed the inhibitory effect of H
Cl on gastric emptying in gastric fistula rats (P < 0.05-0.001). When
peptone was administered after a preload, but not otherwise, the inhib
ition of emptying was also partly reversed by both antagonists at all
doses used (P < 0.05-0.001). Interestingly, the delay in the emptying
of hyperosmolal saline compared to saline, was enhanced at a dose of 0
.2 mg/kg of both antagonists (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01). Food intake did
not change significantly with the two lower doses of antagonists, but
was decreased by the highest dose of NC 8-89. We conclude that GRP spe
cifically inhibits gastric emptying of acid and peptone solutions in t
he conscious rat.