A Protective Role for Glucagon-like Peptide-2 in Heat-stable Enterotoxin b (STb)-Induced L-Cell Toxicity.

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC)-derived purified heat-stable enterotoxin b (STb) is responsible for secretory diarrhea in livestock and humans. STb disrupts intestinal fluid homeostasis, epithelial barrier function, and promotes cell death. Glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) is a potent intestinotrophic hormone secreted by enteroendocrine L cells.

Impact of the Heat-Stable Enterotoxin b (STb) on Gut Health and Function.

Enterotoxigenic (ETEC) produces the heat-stable enterotoxin b (STb), which is responsible for secretory diarrhea in humans and animals. This toxin is secreted within the intestinal lumen of animals and humans following ETEC colonization, becoming active on enterocytes and altering fluid homeostasis. Several studies have outlined the nature of this toxin and its effects on gut health and the integrity of the intestinal epithelium.