Non-parallel secretion of pancreatic amylase and trypsinogen following hepatectomy in rats.

To explore the changes in exocrine pancreatic function in the stages of active regeneration and recovery after hepatectomy, we measured the caerulein-stimulated amylase and trypsinogen output in anesthetized rats 4 days and 8 days after about 70% hepatectomy. Both 4 days and 8 days after hepatectomy, the amylase output was significantly greater than in the control groups. On the other hand, 4 days after hepatectomy, the trypsinogen output was almost the same as in the control groups, and 8 days after hepatectomy, it was significantly lower than in the control groups. Thus, the secretion of amylase and trypsinogen 8 days after hepatectomy was not parallel. The amylase content of the pancreas was significantly larger after hepatectomy than in the control groups, but the trypsinogen content was significantly smaller. These results indicate a non-parallel secretion of pancreatic digestive enzymes, as well as differences in the functions of the acinar cells after partial hepatectomy, and the important role of amylase in glucose metabolism after hepatectomy.