The influence of some anthracene and diphenylmethane derivatives on water and electrolyte movement in rat colon.

The secretagogue activity of 30 different anthracene and diphenylmethane derivatives was investigated by determining their influence on water, sodium and potassium absorption in the gastrointestinal tract of the rat by direct administration into the rat colon. To obtain an effect two phenolic groups are necessary. However the distance between these groups seems to be a major factor for secretagogue activity. In the case of the anthranoids an intact anthraquinone or anthrone structure is a prerequisite.