PERISTALTIC REFLEX - ANALYSIS OF NERVE PATHWAYS AND THEIR PHARMACOLOGY

Abstract

The enteric reflexes in isolated segments of the distal colon and rectum of the guinea-pig were studied by applying localized distensions and recording the consequent changes in circular muscle activity, and by recording tension changes in the circular muscle during the propulsion of a bolus in vitro. Lesions of the wall of the colon were made to locate nerve pathways involved in the reflexes and pharmacological tests were applied to investigate the natures of transmitters released and the types of receptors involved. Distension produced a transient contraction of the circular muscle on the oral side and sustained relaxation on the anal side. Both reflexes were nervemediated. They were elici..