PEPTIC ACTIVITY AND GASTRODUODENAL MUCOSAL DAMAGE

This contribution reviews briefly the history of the discovery and cha racterization of peptic activity; secretory models and current concept s regarding the regulation of pepsinogen secretion; and evidence that pepsin is a necessary co-factor for gastroduodenal mucosal injury. Sev eral animal studies indicate that peptic activity is required for acid - and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced gastroduodenal ulcer ation. A more vigorous approach to the development of anti-peptic drug s for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease is encouraged.