Cholinergic manipulation of digestive function in ruminants and other domestic livestock: a review.

Exocrine secretions in the digestive tract of domestic livestock are controlled by a combination of neural and endocrine inputs. The parasympathetic domain of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for efferent signals that regulate most exocrine secretory processes. Exocrine tissues possess cholinergic muscarinic receptor subtypes that are different from those found in brain, heart and muscle tissues. Cholinergic stimulation of specific muscarinic receptor subtypes has enhanced secretions of the salivary glands and pancreas. These changes in output of exocrine glands can alter digestive function that may benefit production of cattle and swine.