The specific galanin receptor 3 antagonist SNAP-37889 (SNAP) ameliorates caerulein-induced acute Pancreatitis (AP) in mice

Background & Aim: We have shown that galanin plays a role AP, however the receptor sub-type(s) involved are unclear. To determine if galanin receptor 3 participates, we evaluated the specific antagonist SNAP for its ability to ameliorate cerulein-induced AP in mice. Methods: AP was induced by 7 hourly intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of caerulein (50μg/kg) with or without concurrent i.p. administration of SNAP (20 or 40nmol/kg) (n = 6-7). Control mice (n = 4-6) received SNAP alone or saline. Pancreata were harvested at 12 h for histological examination and estimation of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Plasma amylase activity was measured pre- and post-treatment. Histological sections were examined to determine the % abnormal acinar cells and edema using point counting. Statistical analysis used the Mann-Whitney test. Results: Treatment with SNAP reduced the AP-induced elevation in amylase activity by 75% (P < 0.05). The control groups' amylase activity was not different from pre-treatment. SNAP reduced the MPO activity by 75% compared with AP alone (P < 0.05), but alone did not increase MPO activity compared with the saline group. SNAP treatment reduced the AP-induced % abnormal acinar cells by 80% (P < 0.05), whereas edema was unaffected. The % abnormal acinar cells were comparable in all control groups. Conclusion: These data suggest that galanin receptor 3 may be involved in AP. SNAP was a gift from LA Blackshaw.