Effect and relevant mechanism of compound rhubarb mixture on gastrointestinal peristalsis of mice

AIM To investigate the effect of Compound Rhubarb mixture on gastrointestinal peristalsis of mice and study relevant mechanism. METHODS The effect of Compound Rhubarb Mixture on gastrointestinal peristalsis of mice was observed by small intestine charcoal powder propelling test. The levels of motilin, subtance P and somatostain in small intestine of mice were determinated by radioimmunoassay. RESULTS Different dosage of Compound Rhubarb Mixture can improve gastrointestinal peristalasis of mice and increase the levels of motilin, subtance P, with reduce the content of somatostatin in small intestine of mice significantly. CONCLUSION Compound Rhubarb Mixture can enhance the function of gastrointestinal peristalsis of mice by a mechanism of promoting excretion of motilin, subtance P and lowering the level of somatostatin in intestine.