3-0 methylglucose uptake as a marker of nutrient absorption and bowel length in pediatric patients

Inert carbohydrate probes are commonly used to assess intestinal permeability; we have previously shown that the actively transported moiety 3-0 methylglucose (3-0 MG) is a useful marker of intestinal surface area and nutrient absorption in animal models of short bowel syndrome (SBS). This study examines the correlation of 3-0 MG absorption with nutrient absorption, bowel length, and the tolerance of enteral feeds in pediatric patients.

Fifteen children (1 month to 15 years in age) were studied after intestinal surgery. All had a stoma, 2 were > 1 year of age, the remainder had surgical intervention as a neonate or within the first month of life. Eight had SBS (50% expected bowel length for age). Bowel length was measured intraoperatively. Nutrient absorption was quantified with a 48-hour bowel study, measuring fat, protein, and carbohydrate output directly. 3-0 MG absorption and intestinal permeability were quantified using a solution containing 30 mg/mL 3-0 MG, 20 mg/mL mannitol and 30 mg/mL lactulose (osmolarity 352, given at 1 mL/kg via feeding tube). Subsequent urine production was collected for 8 hours, and probe recovery measured using HPLC.

3-0 MG absorption was significantly correlated with nutrient absorption. The correlation with protein absorption was r2 = .59, fat r2 = .62 and carbohydrate r2 = .56. The correlation between 3-0 MG absorption and bowel length was r2 = .58. 3-0 MG absorption was significantly lower in SBS patients vs patients with normal bowel length (15.8 +/- 6.7 vs 30.5 +/- 10.2%). 3-0 MG absorption also correlated with the ability to tolerate enteral feeds (r2 = .38; p < .03 for all comparisons).

3-0 MG may be a useful marker of nutrient absorption and bowel length in pediatric patients with short bowel syndrome. The simplicity and reproducibility of the method make it an attractive option for following patient outcomes. Further studies are suggested to determine the utility of these markers in directing the clinical management of patients.