EFFECTS OF DIABETES AND DIETARY MANIPULATION ON RAT PAROTID-GLAND SECRETORY RESPONSE TO SYMPATHETIC-NERVE STIMULATION

1. The effects of streptozotocin-diabetes, bulk-diet, low protein diet (8%) and protein-calorie malnutrition on parotid gland response to sympathetic nerve stimulation were studied in male Wistar rats. 2. Mean body weights were considerably less in diabetic and protein-calorie malnourished rats than in the other groups, but parotid gland weight was reduced only in animals placed on a low-protein diet. 3. Salivary flow rate (mu-l/min/g tissue) and total protein output (mg secreted/g tissue) were reduced in diabetic rats. 4. Salivary composition was altered in diabetes and protein-calorie restriction, and the specific changes were unique to each condition. 5. Thus, with the possible exception of gland weight the effects of diabetes on parotid gland structure and function are not related to either hyperphagia or nutritional status.