Effect of Close Arterial Injections of KCl on Gastric Potential Difference. ∗

Abstract

Summary

We determined the effect of increasing K⁺ ion concentration of interstitial fluid on the potential difference across the resting dog's stomach. The chambered gastric segment preparation was used and because of toxic systemic effects of elevated plasma K⁺ ion concentration, local plasma K⁺ ion concentration was elevated by close arterial injection. Close arterial injection of KCl resulted in a decrease in P.D., a decrease in resistance, and a marked blanching of the mucosa. Control experiments with NaCl and NaHCO₃ did not result in blanching and had relatively little influence on P.D. or resistance. That the effects of close arterial KCl injections are not the result of anoxia alone is suggested by the occlusion of blood supply producing a decrease in P.D. but an increase in resistance.