Immunohistochemical demonstration of somatostatin-positive cells in the canine gut.

Somatostatin-immunoreactive cells in the canine gut were investigated by an indirect immunofluorescent technique. Somatostatin-positive cells were demonstrated in the neck portion of the pyloric gland and in the bottom of the intestinal crypt, and these cells were distinguished from those in other organs by the presence of a cytoplasmic process reaching the gut lumen (external environment). Possible functional meaning of this cytoplasmic process was discussed.