Release of gastrointestinal peptides in response to vagal activation induced by electrical stimulation, feeding and suckling.

This paper contains a discussion and presentation of evidence concerning vagal control of the release of some gastrointestinal peptides, the secretion of gastrin and somatostatin in particular. Some aspects of the regulation of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), substance P, bombesin and insulin release by the vagus nerve are also reviewed. Data were obtained not only by electrical stimulation of the vagi but also by monitoring effects of feeding and suckling. The involvement of vagal afferents, transmitters, neurohormones in release of other hormones and humorally carried activators and inhibitors is analyzed. Particular attention is paid to the chains of reactions induced by physiological stimuli: feeding and suckling.