Effects of pancreatic polypeptide on basal and meal stimulated secretion of gastrointestinal, pancreatic and adrenocortical hormones in the dog.

We have assessed the effects of intravenous infusion of bovine pancreatic polypeptide (PP) (1 microgram kg-1 h-1) on the basal and postprandial secretion of gastrointestinal, pancreatic and adrenocortical hormones in normal dogs. Bovine PP within the physiological range increased plasma cortisol levels transiently but significantly. PP elicited an inhibition of insulin response to a protein-rich meal, and tended to reduce the gastrin response. There were, however, no significant changes in basal or postprandial plasma concentrations of motilin and pancreatic glucagon during PP infusion. These results suggest that PP may have a role in controlling insulin secretion from the pancreas. The possible mechanisms are discussed mainly on the basis of vagal innervation.