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Developmental changes in the sucrase-isomaltase complex in rat intestinal mucosa
Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology
|January 1, 1978
Summary
Sucrase-isomaltase activity ratios change during rat development. Researchers found increased sucrase to isomaltase activity, with free isomaltase present before weaning.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Developmental Biology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Sucrase-isomaltase is a key enzyme complex in intestinal carbohydrate digestion.
- Understanding its developmental changes is crucial for infant nutrition and digestive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate developmental changes in the sucrase-isomaltase complex in rat intestines.
- To analyze the activity ratios and molecular characteristics of sucrase and isomaltase during development.
Main Methods:
- Sephadex G-200 column chromatography and polyacrylamide disc gel electrophoresis were used.
- Disaccharidases were solubilized using papain treatment.
- Intestinal mucosal homogenates and brush border membranes from rats of different ages were analyzed.
Main Results:
- The molecular weight of the sucrase-isomaltase complex remained constant during development.
- The activity ratio of sucrase to isomaltase significantly increased with age.
- Free isomaltase, not originating from the brush border membrane, was detected in pre-weanling rats.
Conclusions:
- Intestinal sucrase-isomaltase activity undergoes significant developmental regulation.
- The observed increase in sucrase to isomaltase ratio suggests a shift in carbohydrate digestion capacity during maturation.
- The presence of free isomaltase prior to weaning warrants further investigation into its origin and function.