In vivo D-glucose absorption in the developing rat small intestine

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Developmental Biology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Glucose absorption is crucial for infant nutrition.
• Intestinal glucose transport mechanisms mature postnatally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the developmental changes in intestinal glucose absorption capacity in rats.

Main Methods:

• In situ perfusion of D-glucose solutions (1-20 mg/ml) in rat jejunum and ileum.
• Assessment of glucose absorption rates normalized for intestinal weight across different age groups (suckling, weanling, adult).

Main Results:

• Glucose absorption rate per unit weight significantly increased from suckling to weanling stages.
• Absorption rates plateaued at lower glucose concentrations in suckling rats compared to weanling rats.
• Absorption rates were approximately double in weanling rats (21-23 days) versus 7-8 day old pups.

Conclusions:

• Rat intestinal glucose absorption capacity per unit weight approximately doubles around weaning.
• Post-weaning, glucose absorption efficiency remains relatively stable into adulthood.