The Effect of Breast Feeding on Plasma Cholecystokinin in Neonates

Cholecystokinin (CCK), a gastrointestinal hormone, is secreted by the duodenum in response to the presence of gastric acid, amino acids and nutrients in particular fat in the duodenal lumen (1). The half life of this hormone is about 2.5 minutes and the kidney is considered the major site of its uptake from the systemic circulation. Cholecystokinin is responsible for stimulating gallbladder contraction and pancreatic secretion. Gallbladder function is under the control of various neural and hormonal actions. In dogs, truncal vagotomy reduces the sensitivity of the gallbladder to CCK. However, truncal vagotomy may not alter the rate of gallbladder emptying. In man, the post contraction volume of the gallbladder is greater after complete vagotomy, suggesting a parasympathetic role in emptying. Vagal stimulation may also regulate the response of gallbladder to CCK.