Secretin
Also known as: ChiRhoStim, Synthetic human secretin
Secretin is a 27-amino-acid gastrointestinal hormone used as a diagnostic stimulant. Synthetic human secretin provokes measurable pancreatic or gastrin responses rather than serving as an ongoing therapeutic regimen.
Quick Facts
Identity and the first hormone
The small intestine normally releases secretin to stimulate pancreatic bicarbonate-rich fluid, helping neutralize gastric acid. ChiRhoStim is synthetic human secretin; an earlier porcine synthetic product was discontinued.
In 1902, William Bayliss and Ernest Starling demonstrated a blood-borne intestinal signal stimulating the pancreas. Secretin became the first identified hormone, and Starling later coined that term. Its historical importance differs from its modern diagnostic role.
Diagnostic mechanism
Secretin receptors on pancreatic duct and acinar cells stimulate watery bicarbonate-rich output. Sampling or imaging the response helps assess exocrine function. Gastrinoma cells paradoxically release gastrin in response, supporting tumor diagnosis.
A single IV dose is given under controlled test conditions. Secretin-enhanced imaging studies found greater sensitivity for pancreatic-duct abnormalities than imaging alone.
Sources: [1]
Approved diagnostic indications
| Diagnostic use | Measured or procedural role |
|---|---|
| Exocrine pancreatic dysfunction | Stimulates pancreatic secretions. |
| Gastrinoma | Provokes gastrin secretion. |
| ERCP | Facilitates pancreatic-duct identification. |
FDA approved synthetic human ChiRhoStim in 2004 for these uses. It is clinician-administered as part of a specific investigation, not an ongoing home treatment.
Sources: [2]
Adverse effects
The single diagnostic dose most commonly causes nausea, vomiting, flushing or stomach upset according to prescribing information. Test-specific clinical supervision and product instructions remain relevant.
References and further reading
This reference draws on Superpower’s Peptide Library and the research linked below. Peptide Dossier’s editorial team adapted and integrated the material on .
- 10.1053/j.gastro.2014.05.035Diagnostic mechanismCited in: Diagnostic mechanism
- drugs.comApproved diagnostic indicationsCited in: Approved diagnostic indications
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. The information presented is based on published research and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol. Some peptides discussed may not be approved for human use by the FDA or equivalent regulatory bodies.