Quantitative real-time RT-PCR measurement of mRNA encoding alpha-chain, pIgR and J-chain from canine duodenal mucosa.

IgA is the predominant immunoglobulin class in mucosal secretions and secretory deficiencies may predispose to chronic enteropathies. The polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) facilitates the transport of IgA across the epithelial border. Critical to the transport of IgA by pIgR is the presence of a polypeptide joining chain (J-chain) linking the IgA monomers of the dimeric IgA molecule.

Relationships between fecal consistency and colonic microstructure and absorptive function in dogs with and without nonspecific dietary sensitivity.

Objective: To determine relationships between fecal consistency and colonic microstructure and absorptive function in dogs with and without nonspecific dietary sensitivity.

Animals: 12 dogs with nonspecific dietary sensitivity (affected) and 9 healthy dogs (controls).

Procedure: Affected dogs were fed 4 test diets and control dogs, 3 diets for 4 weeks each in a crossover design.

Net protein oxidation is adapted to dietary protein intake in domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus).

Cats have a requirement for dietary protein two to three times that of omnivores and herbivores. This was reported to be due to the hepatic catabolic enzymes of this species being set to a permanently high level and, therefore, showing little adaptation to low dietary protein. A major mechanism for adapting to dietary protein in other species is amino acid oxidation (hereafter referred to as protein oxidation), and the objective of this study was to determine whether protein oxidation in cats was correlated with protein intake.