Effects of an extract from the centipede Scolopendra moristans on intestine, uterus and heart contractions and on blood glucose and liver and muscle glycogen levels

Abstract

scolopendra extract caused initial inhibition of rabbit intestine followed by a marked excitation and finally a prolonged phase of inhibition. This effect was abolished by atropine and cyproheptadine (blockers of acetylcholine and serotonin respectively) but not by adrenergic blockers (hydergine and propranolol). The extract induced relaxation of the non-gravid uterus and slight inhibition of the normal contraction of the gravid uterus. These effects were blocked by the adrenergic blocking agents. The extract causes an inhibitory effect on the isolated heart of the toad which appeared to be due to the release of acetylcholine and was blocked by atropine. Scolopendra extract causes hyperglycaemia simultaneously with liver and muscle glycogenolysis. It is suggested that both effects are mediated through a serotonin like action of the extract. © 1980.