A dynamic model of protein digestion in the small intestine of pigs

A dynamic mathematical model of the digestion of proteins in the small intestine of pigs was developed. The model integrates current knowledge on the transit of digesta along the small intestine, endogenous secretions, digestion of proteins, and absorption of amino acids into a mechanistic representation of digestion. The main characteristics of the model are the following: the small intestine is divided into several segments of variable length but with equal digesta retention time; the rate of transfer of digesta between segments is based on the progression of myoelectric migration complexes; pancreatic and biliary secretions are poured into the first segment, whereas intestinal secretions enter all intestinal segments; protein hydrolysis is described by first-order equations; and an intestinal absorption capacity is used to estimate absorption of hydrolyzed protein. Simulation results are consistent with observed data, although more information is needed to represent reality more closely. The sensitivity analysis shows that parameters for protein hydrolysis largely determine protein digestibility. The absorption capacity of the small intestine limits the absorption of amino acids at the beginning of a meal and modulates the appearance of amino nitrogen in the portal vein. It also shows that amino acid absorption can be limiting to protein digestibility when large amounts of protein are eaten in a single daily meal. The model is useful in evaluating the dynamics of protein digestion and absorption of feedstuffs. The model can be used in evaluating protein digestion of different feedstuffs and feeding strategies.