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Effect of misoprostol on the enzyme ontogeny of the rat intestine

A Marti1, M J Moreno, M P Fernandez-Otero

  • 1Department of Physiology and Nutrition, School of Pharmacy, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.

Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. Part C, Pharmacology, Toxicology & Endocrinology
|July 1, 1994
PubMed

Insights

Misoprostol, a prostaglandin E1 analog, enhances digestive enzyme activity and alters small intestine weight and composition in young rats. These effects are likely triggered by the release of corticosterone.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) analogs like Misoprostol have known physiological effects.
  • The impact of Misoprostol on the developing small intestine requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the biochemical alterations in the small intestine of suckling rats induced by Misoprostol.
  • To explore the potential role of corticosterone in mediating Misoprostol's effects.

Main Methods:

  • Administration of Misoprostol to suckling rats.
  • Measurement of sucrase activity in proximal and distal small intestine.
  • Assay of jejunal aminopeptidase N activity.
  • Analysis of small intestine relative weight and mucosal DNA/RNA ratio.

Main Results:

  • Misoprostol significantly increased sucrase activity in both proximal and distal small intestine.
  • Jejunal aminopeptidase N activity was elevated in Misoprostol-treated rats.
  • The drug altered small intestine relative weight and the mucosal DNA to RNA ratio.
  • Evidence suggests corticosterone release mediates these observed effects.

Conclusions:

  • Misoprostol modulates key digestive enzyme activities and tissue composition in the suckling rat small intestine.
  • Corticosterone appears to be a significant mediator of Misoprostol's gastrointestinal effects in this model.

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