Factors influencing the motility of the perfused horse intestine.

This research paper investigates the various factors that influence the movement of the intestine in horses, and reveals that elements like oxygen supply, choice of suspension medium, ions in the perfusion fluid, and the use of a suspension of blood cells, play crucial roles in intestinal motility.

Oxygen Supply

• The research observed that the extent of the rhythmic contractions of the perfused ileum (a part of the small intestine) could vary with the availability of oxygen. This suggests that sufficient oxygen supply is essential for the optimal functioning of the horse’s intestines.

Suspension Medium for Red Cells

• The paper states that isotonic sodium chloride solution is as effective as Tyrode’s solution for suspending the red cells in the perfusion fluid. Both mediums allowed the red blood cells to preserve their shape and function while being circulated within the horse’s intestines.

Role of Ions in the Perfusion Fluid

• The study found that changes in the potassium and calcium content of the perfusion fluid didn’t significantly affect the motility of the intestines. However, sodium ions were found to carry a specific function in maintaining motility. This shows the critical role sodium ions play in intestinal performance.
• When chloride ions in the perfusion fluid were exchanged for bromide, phosphate, and sulphate ions, the motility was not impacted, demonstrating the intestines’ resistance to these changes. However, the introduction of iodide ions proved to be toxic.

Perfusion with a Suspension of Blood Cells

• Lastly, the paper demonstrates that when the ileum was perfused with a suspension of blood cells, it was able to propel light balloons at rates of 1-4 cm./sec. in a direction away from the mouth. This finding may help in understanding the propulsion power of the horse intestine under various conditions.

In conclusion, the research expanded our understanding of horse intestine physiology and revealed conditions that are optimal for its functioning. Further studies can extend these findings to understand the physiological functions of intestines in other species.