[Impact of WPY on pancreatic microcirculation of acute pancreatitis in mice].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis (AP) and evaluate the effect of a Chinese herb WPY on the course of AP.

METHODS

Intravital fluorescence microscopy was used. The pancreatic microvascular diameter, RBC velocities and functional capillary density (FCD) were estimated following intracutaneous injection of caerulein alone or with gastropipe WPY.

RESULTS

Caerulein mediated a significant decrease in functional capillary density (FCD), RBC velocities and diameter of interlobular arteriole (P < 0.01). Compared with AP group, WPY was effective in restoring functional capillary density, interlobular arteriole diameter and RBC velocity.

CONCLUSION

Impairment of pancreatic microcirculation in the early phase of acute pancreatitis may play a key role in the progression of this disease. Possible contributory mechanisms include reduced blood flow and functional capillary density, interlobular arteriole spasm, and leukocyte-endothelial cell interaction. WPY has a beneficial effect on the course of acute pancreatitis. Possible causes include attenuating microcirculatory failure.