[Biochemical mechanisms of the regulation of gastric mucus secretion in the rat: the role of prostaglandin E2 and histamine].

Both prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and histamine activated the adenylate cyclase system of rat gastric cells. Parietal acid-producing cells of the stomach were the target-cells for histamine, while PGE2 affected the mucous cells of gastric glands. The stimulating effect of PGE2 on mucus production occurred due to activation of protein synthesis. Electron microscopy of mucous cells detected alterations in structure of cells involved in biosynthesis of mucoids. Histamine appears to cause its effect on secretion of gastric mucus via the activating influence on production of hydrochloric acid.