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Characterization of actin and myosin in the developing stomach
M Ayas1, K N Bitar, C Hillemeier
1University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor 48109-0658, USA.
Pediatric Research
|February 1, 1995
Summary
Gastric smooth muscle in kittens has less actin and myosin than adults. Changes in myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms during stomach development may influence gastric motility in growing animals.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Developmental Biology
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Dietary changes from liquid to solid meals alter stomach function during development.
- Gastric smooth muscle undergoes developmental changes in its contractile mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate structural changes in actin and myosin during gastric smooth muscle development.
- To determine age-related alterations in contractile protein composition in the stomach.
Main Methods:
- One-dimensional SDS-PAGE was used to identify and quantify actin and myosin in newborn kitten and adult gastric smooth muscle.
- Myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms were analyzed to assess developmental changes.
Main Results:
- Newborn kittens had significantly lower total amounts of actin and myosin per mg protein compared to adults.
- The ratio of actin to myosin did not differ significantly between age groups.
- Two myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms (MHC1 and MHC2) were identified; MHC2 increased with age, decreasing the MHC1 to MHC2 ratio in adults.
Conclusions:
- Decreased actin and myosin quantities in kitten stomachs may contribute to developmental changes in gastric motility.
- Altered ratios of MHC isoforms during stomach maturation are linked to functional adaptations in gastric motor activity.