Table 4

 Direct effects of dexamethasone or antibiotics on visceral sensitivity

Before intrarectal administrationAfter intrarectal administration
*p = 0.03 versus before intrarectal administration. Mice (n = 12/group) were distended three times before and three times after administration of active substances.
Data are median (IQR) of three distensions expressed as percentage of change versus the first distension (1st distension = 100%).
Saline102% (80–145)97% (70–110)
Histamine100% (99–110)152% (130–250)*
Dexamethasone100% (79–108)95% (67–99)
Antibiotic combination100% (88–115)100% (60–115)