Objective     To investigate the changes of c-Kit/SCF signaling system in gastric antrum of diabetic rats and clarify their effects on interstitial cells of Cajal.       Methods     Wistar rats were randomly divided into diabetic group and control group. The rats in diabetic group were intraperitoneally injected of streptozotocin

while normal saline for control group. Gastric emptying rate was measured

the ultrastructure of antral tissue was observed through transmission electron microscope

the expressions of SCF mRNA and c-kit protein in muscular layer were measured after diabetic rat model establishment for 3 months.      Results     In the diabetic rats

gastric emptying time was significantly longer than that of normal rats. The number of the gap junction of interstitial cells of Cajal in gastric antrum of diabetic rats decreased significantly

the ultrastructure and the organelle were damaged

and vacuoles were formed. The expression of SCF mRNA and c-kit protein in muscular layer in gastric antrum of diabetic rats was significantly decreased as compared with that in normal rats.      Conclusion     c-Kit/SCF signaling system is crucial to the development

phenotype maintenance and function of interstitial cells of Cajal. The degeneration and decrease of interstitial cells of Cajal and loosening of network in gastric antrum of diabetic rats occurred because of impairment of c-kit/SCF signaling system.