AIM: The effect of ethacrynic acid on pancreatic exocrine secretion function and potential mechanisms of interference with the secretory process in pancreatic acinar cells were investigated. METHODS: After incubation with ethacrynic acid for 30 min, caerulein-stimulated amylase release and cholecystokinin (CCK) receptor binding characteristics were assessed in isolated rat pancreatic acini. The level of thiol groups (glutathione and protein thiols ) and cytosolic free calcium were measured in pancreatic acinar cells. RESULTS:Ethacrynic acid decreased caerulein (0. 1 nmol/L )-stimulated amylase release and the level of pancreatic acinar glutathione in a concentration-dependent fashion without a marked increase in cell damage. Ethacrynic acid also inhibited the caerulein (1 nmol/L)-induced Ca2+ mobilization in pancreatic acinar cells. But neither protein thiol nor CCK-receptor binding characteristics was altered by ethacrynic acid. CONCLUSION: Ethacrynic acid inhibit pancreatic exocrine secretion by depletion of glutathione and down-regulation of caerulein-induced Ca2+ mobilization. Glutathione might play a potential role in the secretory process in pancreatic acinar cells and in the secretory blockade observed in acute pancreatitis.