Influence of somatostatin on gastric motility and meal absorption in rhesus monkeys, Macaca mulatta.

The effects of somatostatin on gastric motility and nutrient absorption from a mixed meal were evaluated in conscious rhesus monkeys (M. mulatta). Continuous saline or somatostatin (0.8 microgram/kg X min) infusions were carried out prior to and for 2 hr following an intragastric infusion of a complete liquid diet trace-labeled with 3H-3-glucose and 3H-9, 10-triolein. Gastric motility was assessed from recordings of gastric pressure and from extraluminal strain gauges. Intravenous somatostatin did not alter gastric motility or the rate of absorption of the labeled glucose; lipid absorption, however, was markedly impaired.