Effects of the peripherally acting NK3 receptor antagonist, SB-235375, on intestinal and somatic nociceptive responses and on intestinal motility in anaesthetized rats

Abstract

We investigated the effects of the selective NK3 tachykinin receptor antagonist, SB-235375, on noxious signalling from gut and skin and on intestinal motility in anaesthetized rats. We also measured penetrance into brain and spinal cord. Nociceptive responses in reaction to colorectal distension and skin pinch were assessed by recording the electromyogram (EMG) from the external oblique muscle (a visceromotor response). Motility was measured by recording intraluminal pressure waves during changes in baseline pressure in the jejunum. Colorectal compliance was assessed by measuring luminal pressure change during isovolumic distension. SB-235375 (20 mg kg-1, by i.v. bolus) reduced the EMG respo..