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[Can macromolecules be absorbed and what effect does the immune status have on it?]
J Seifert1, C Sellschopp, W Sass
1Abt. Allgemeine Chirurgie der Universität Kiel.
Zeitschrift Fur Hautkrankheiten
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Adults can absorb intact, biologically active proteins and particles from the gastro-intestinal tract. This process involves the lymphatic system and immune system, potentially influencing nutrient absorption and immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Context:
- The gastro-intestinal tract's role in nutrient absorption is well-established.
- Intact macromolecule absorption in adults was previously less understood.
- The interplay between the gut, lymphatic system, and immune system is complex.
Purpose:
- To investigate the absorption of intact macromolecules from the gastro-intestinal tract in adult animals and humans.
- To determine if absorbed macromolecules retain biological activity.
- To explore the potential involvement of the lymphatic and immune systems in this absorption process.
Summary:
- Radioactive labeling demonstrated that adult animals and humans absorb intact proteins and particles from the gastro-intestinal tract.
- A significant portion of these absorbed macromolecules maintains its original biological activity.
- The absorption mechanism is hypothesized to involve a rudimentary system within the gastro-intestinal lymphatic system, interacting with immune responses.
Impact:
- This research suggests a novel pathway for macromolecule uptake in the gut.
- It highlights a potential role for the gastro-intestinal lymphatic tissue in processing foreign and self-substances.
- Findings may have implications for understanding nutrient bioavailability, drug delivery, and immune system regulation.