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Glutamine-supplemented total parenteral nutrition improves gut immune function
D J Burke1, J C Alverdy, E Aoys
1Department of Surgery, Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60616.
Archives of Surgery (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|December 1, 1989
Summary
Glutamine supplementation in parenteral nutrition enhances gut immune function, protecting against bacterial translocation. This may involve boosting secretory IgA levels, crucial for gut health.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Glutamine is a vital fuel source for the gastrointestinal tract.
- Gut immune function can be compromised by standard nutritional support methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of glutamine-enriched parenteral nutrition on gut immune responses.
- To assess glutamine's role in preventing gut barrier dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-six female Fischer rats were divided into three dietary groups: chow, standard total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and glutamine-supplemented TPN.
- Diets were administered for two weeks.
- Mesenteric lymph nodes, bile, and bowel tissue were analyzed for immune markers and bacterial adherence.
Main Results:
- Glutamine-supplemented TPN significantly reduced bacterial translocation compared to standard TPN.
- Bile assays showed elevated levels of secretory IgA in the glutamine group.
- Reduced bacterial adherence was observed in the gut of rats receiving glutamine.
Conclusions:
- Glutamine-supplemented parenteral nutrition offers protective benefits against gut bacterial translocation.
- The secretory IgA immune system likely plays a key role in mediating these protective effects.
- Glutamine is a promising nutrient for maintaining gut integrity during nutritional support.