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Glucagon-like peptide-2 induces rapid digestive adaptation following intestinal resection in preterm neonates

Andreas Vegge1, Thomas Thymann, Pernille Lund

  • 1Dept. of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences, Univ. of Copenhagen, 30 Rolighedsvej, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark. psa@life.ku.dk.

American Journal of Physiology. Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology
|June 15, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) treatment significantly improved intestinal adaptation and nutrient absorption in preterm pigs following intestinal resection. This suggests GLP-2 may be a promising therapy for infants with short bowel syndrome.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a common complication in infants after intestinal resection.
  • Intestinal resection leads to reduced intestinal volume and function, impacting nutrient absorption.
  • Endogenous glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) levels are decreased after intestinal resection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) on intestinal adaptation and function in preterm pigs after intestinal resection.
  • To determine if GLP-2 treatment can enhance nutrient absorption and structural integrity in the immediate post-resection period.

Main Methods:

  • Preterm pigs underwent 50% small intestine resection and jejunostomy.
  • Post-resection, pigs received total parenteral nutrition (TPN) with or without GLP-2 treatment.
  • Nutrient balance studies, enzyme activity assays, and measurements of intestinal epithelial volume, DNA, protein content, and synthesis rate were performed.

Main Results:

  • GLP-2 treatment significantly increased the relative absorption of wet weight, energy, and all macronutrients compared to untreated pigs.
  • GLP-2 administration resulted in a 200% increase in sucrase and maltase activities and a 50% increase in small intestinal epithelial volume.
  • Increased DNA and protein content, along with a 100% increase in total protein synthesis rate, were observed in GLP-2 treated pigs.

Conclusions:

  • GLP-2 treatment promotes significant structural and functional adaptation of the intestine following resection in preterm pigs.
  • GLP-2 enhances fluid and macronutrient absorption, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent.
  • GLP-2 may improve digestive function and outcomes for preterm infants with short bowel syndrome and jejunostomy.

Keywords:
glucagon-like peptide-2intestineneonatal short bowel syndromepremature

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