Effects of Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibitors on Gastric Alkaline Secretion in Rats

Abstract

The effects of N^G-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), the nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor, on gastric HCO₃^- secretion were examined in anesthetized rats. Intravenous administration of L-NAME (1, 2.5, 5 mg/kg) increased HCO₃^- secretion in a dose-related manner. This effect of L-NAME was mimicked by N^G-mono-methyl-L-arginine (50 mg/kg, i.v.) and was antagonized significantly by concurrent administration of L-arginine but not D-arginine (200 mg/kg, i.v.). These results indicate that gastric HCO₃^- secretion is stimulated by inhibition of NO biosynthesis.