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Intestinal lipoprotein formation: effect of cholchicine
Gastroenterology
|March 1, 1976
Summary
Microtubules may play a role in intestinal lipid transport. Colchicine, a microtubule inhibitor, impaired lymphatic absorption of fatty acids and suggested an "exit block" for chylomicrons.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Intestinal lipoprotein formation and secretion are critical for lipid absorption.
- The role of cellular structures like microtubules in this process remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential involvement of microtubules in intestinal lipoprotein formation and secretion.
- To determine the effect of colchicine, a microtubule inhibitor, on intestinal lipid absorption.
Main Methods:
- Administered colchicine to rats and measured lymphatic absorption of [14C]oleic acid.
- Analyzed chylomicron apoprotein content using SDS-PAGE.
- Studied micellar lipid absorption in jejunal loops and analyzed residual mucosal lipids.
- Utilized electron microscopy to examine intestinal tissue.
Main Results:
- Colchicine treatment significantly delayed and decreased lymphatic absorption of [14C]oleic acid.
- Residual mucosal lipids increased threefold in colchicine-treated animals, primarily as triglycerides.
- Electron microscopy revealed lipid particles within the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, suggesting an impaired secretion or "exit block".
Conclusions:
- Microtubule disruption by colchicine impairs intestinal lipid transport, potentially by blocking chylomicron secretion.
- These findings suggest a role for microtubules in the intestinal transport of lipids.
- Further research is needed to directly confirm microtubule participation in chylomicron secretion.
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