Effects of monensin on the Na+ pump activity and the release of amylase and sialic acid in dog submandibular glands.

The effects of monensin on the Na+,K+-ATPase activity and the release of amylase and sialic acid were investigated in dog submandibular gland pieces. Monensin stimulated the Na+,K+-ATPase activity and amylase release in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, this agent increased the Na+,K+-ATPase activity and the release of amylase and sialic acid induced by pilocarpine. These results suggest that monensin increases the release of amylase and sialic acid in dog submandibular glands, in part, through the Na+ pump activated due to the Na+ influx.