Ontogeny, growth and development of the small intestine: Understanding pediatric gastroenterology.

Throughout our lifetime, the intestine changes. Some alterations in its form and function may be genetically determined, and some are the result of adaptation to diet, temperature, or stress. The critical period programming of the intestine can be modified, such as from subtle differences in the types and ratios of n3:m6 fatty acids in the diet of the pregnant mother, or in the diet of the weanlings.

Beta-glucan extracts inhibit the in vitro intestinal uptake of long-chain fatty acids and cholesterol and down-regulate genes involved in lipogenesis and lipid transport in rats.

Background: Dietary fiber reduces the intestinal absorption of nutrients and the blood concentrations of cholesterol and triglycerides.

Aim: We wished to test the hypothesis that high-viscosity (HV) and low-viscosity preparations of barley and oat beta-glucan modify the expression of selected genes of lipid-binding proteins in the intestinal mucosa and reduce the intestinal in vitro uptake of lipids.

Methods: Five different beta-glucan extracts were separately added to test solutions at concentrations of 0.

Morphological, kinetic, membrane biochemical and genetic aspects of intestinal enteroplasticity.

The process of intestinal adaptation ("enteroplasticity") is complex and multifaceted. Although a number of trophic nutrients and non-nutritive factors have been identified in animal studies, successful, reproducible clinical trials in humans are awaited. Understanding mechanisms underlying this adaptive process may direct research toward strategies that maximize intestinal function and impart a true clinical benefit to patients with short bowel syndrome, or to persons in whom nutrient absorption needs to be maximized.

Intestinal hormones and growth factors: effects on the small intestine.

There are various hormones and growth factors which may modify the intestinal absorption of nutrients, and which might thereby be useful in a therapeutic setting, such as in persons with short bowel syndrome. In part I, we focus first on insulin-like growth factors, epidermal and transferring growth factors, thyroid hormones and glucocorticosteroids. Part II will detail the effects of glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-2 on intestinal absorption and adaptation, and the potential for an additive effect of GLP2 plus steroids.

Dexamethasone and GLP-2 given to lactating rat dams influence glucose uptake in suckling and postweanling offspring.

Background: Glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) enhances intestinal absorption in adult animals. Glucocorticosteroids accelerate the ontogeny of the intestine and increase sugar uptake in adult animals. Modifying the maternal diet during lactation alters nutrient uptake in the offspring.