| abstract |
(57) [Summary]nThe present invention relates to a method for controlling water and mucin secretion and fluid transport in the gastrointestinal tract. The present invention relates to a method for treating gastrointestinal disorders in which the gastrointestinal tract mucosal barrier is impaired. The present invention further provides a method for normalizing disorders of fluid secretion or absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, causing either diarrhea or constipation. The method comprises administering to a patient a pharmaceutical composition comprising a purinary P2Y receptor ligand in an amount effective to control water and mucin secretion and fluid transport in the gastrointestinal tract. Pharmaceutical compositions for use in the present invention include P2Y purinergic receptor agonists such as uridine 5'-diphosphate (UDP) and uridine 5'-triphosphate (UTP), cytidine 5'-diphosphate (CDP). And cytidine 5'-triphosphate (CTP), adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP) and adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP), and analogs thereof; and dinucleotide polyphosphate compounds of general formula IV (General formula IV). The compounds are prepared in oral, injectable, or suppository form, and are administered to a patient. |