UTP (Study 2 – in vitro)

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of UTP on contractility of gastric smooth muscle in vitro.

Background

Previous studies have shown that UTP reduces gastric ulcer score in racehorses. The current study was undertaken to determine potential mechanism of action of this effect. Gastric hypermotility has been associated with the development of gastric ulceration in nonequine species, and reduction of hypermotility may be protective against their development.

Methods

Stomachs from 12 pigs processed for food at a provincially inspected abattoir were collected within 1 hour of slaughter. Explants of nonglandular gastric tissue were prepared and suspended in a tissue bath, attached to a force transducer, in the
presence or absence of a simulated digest extract of UTP. Tissue was stimulated to contract using increasing doses of acetylcholine. Peak and mean contractile force over 1 and 2 minutes after exposure to acetylcholine were measured.

Results

Exposure of gastric smooth muscle to UTP significantly reduced contractility of the tissue (Fig 1). These data provide support for the use of this nutraceutical to reduce contractility of nonglandular gastric smooth muscle and may indicate a protective
effect of this nutraceutical in horses with mechanically induced gastric ulcers.

Fig 1: Change in force of two pigs following addition of 10 6 (a), 10 5 (b), 10 4 (c), 10 3 (d) acetylcholine. Baths 1 and 2 contained tissue from Pig 1, and baths 3 and 4 contained tissue from Pig 2.

Conclusions

These data provide evidence that UTP significantly reduces contractility of gastric smooth muscle. This effect likely contributes to the anti-ulcer effect of the product.