Release of gastrointestinal peptides during E. coli endotoxinaemia.

We have earlier reported an elevation of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) plasma levels during endotoxinaemia in pigs (Revhaug et al., 1983). In the present study the plasma levels of pancreatic polypeptide (PP), somatostatin, gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) and insulin have been measured by sensitive Ria methods during E. coli endotoxin (Difco) shock in six anaesthetized pigs. The plasma samples were drawn from the vena porta, cava superior, internal jugular vein and the aorta. A significant increase in plasma levels of PP, somatostatin, and insulin was observed in this model. The increased plasma levels were higher in the portal vein than in the other sampling site. GIP did not present any change in this model.