[Changes in plasma levels of intestinal regulatory peptides following colonic resection in the rat].

The colon is considered as an endocrine organ producing regulatory peptides. Colon resection exerts an influence on remnant bowel including proliferative adaptive phenomena. The aim of this work was to determine the modifications of several regulatory peptides after colectomy and its relation with the gastrointestinal proliferative changes. 75% proximal colectomy was performed in Wistar rats. Seven groups were used according to sacrifice times: 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 7 days, 14 days, 21 days and control group without resection. Results show significant decreases in somatostatin, neurotensin and cholecystokinin plasma levels maintained up to 21 days postsurgery. Gastrin is elevated with a highest peak at 72 h achieving basal levels at 21 day. Peptide YY show significant high levels between 72 h and 7 days. Secretin plasma levels are increased 24 h post-surgery, decreasing significantly at day 14. It is suggested that maintained low plasmatic levels of somatostatin, a known mucosal growth inhibitor, after colectomy may help the proliferative adaptation.