The effect of exogenous leptin on pancreatic enzyme secretion in anaesthetized rats

Abstract

The influence of leptin on the secretion of pancreatic juice was examined in biliary-pancreatic duct-cannulated anaesthetised rats. Exogenous leptin was given in boluses either intravenously or intraduodenally. A low dose of leptin (0.1 μg/kg BW) had no effect on pancreatic secretion. Leptin in a dose of 1 μg/kg BW given intravenously inhibited protein and amylase output only when the exocrine pancreas was stimulated by CCK-8 (12 pmol/kg BW, iv). Leptin in a high, pharmacological dose (10 μg/kg BW) given intravenously inhibited juice secretion, protein and amylase output, whereas given intraduodenally, stimulated them. Intravenous infusion of 2-deoxy-glucose (0.25 g/kg BW per h) induced pancreatic juice secretion, which was abolished by a leptin bolus (10 μg/kg BW). In conclusion, leptin can regulate the exocrine pancreas via different mechanisms.