Effects of glucagon on in vitro liquid production by lungs from fetal guinea pigs

Abstract

Background-Lung liquid reabsorption in newborns with respiratory distress syndrome can be deficient. Respiratory distress syndrome is often seen in infants of diabetic mothers, in whom the neonatal surge of glucagon is suppressed. Aim-To investigate the possible eVects of glucagon on lung liquid reabsorption. Methods-Lungs from near term fetal guinea pigs (62 (2) days gestation; term = 67 days) were supported in vitro for three hours; lung liquid production and reabsorption were monitored by a dye dilution method. Conclusions-The results suggest that the surge of glucagon at birth may help to drain the lungs of fluid. As glucagon liberates cAMP, which also stimulates surfactant, glucagon is worth consideration for possible use in neonatal respiratory distress. (Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2000;83:F28-F34) Results-Untreated

Estimation of lung liquid production in fetal sheep with blue dye dextran and radioiodinated serum albumin

“…For the first time, fluid production and reabsorption could be detected, followed in its time course, and quantified (24,27). Since then, we have come to understand many complex factors such as epinephrine (35), arginine vasopressin (6), 3,5,3Ј-triiodothyronine and hydrocortisone (1,7), glucagon (10), expansion (14,28), fall in temperature (13), and products of the pulmonary neuroendocrine system (8,9), which may help to drain the lungs at birth.…”