Modification of the cytoprotective effect of prostacyclin on gastric epithelial cells of rats by colchicine.

The effect of prostacyclin (PGI2) and colchicine on fundic gastric mucosa of sexually mature female Wistar rats was investigated histochemically after restraint stress. Under PGI2 treatment the ulcer index decreased significantly; this effect was moderately inhibited by colchicine. The mucus content of epithelial cells was decreased during restraint and was increased by PGI2 treatment. This protective action was also inhibited by colchicine. The nuclear volume of fundic epithelial cells increased significantly in restraint and decreased following colchicine application. These phenomena were not influenced by PGI2. According to our results the cytoprotective effect of PGI2 is not accompanied by nuclear volume changes.