ATP-MgCl2 restores gut absorptive capacity early after trauma-hemorrhagic shock

The aim of this study was to determine whether ATP-MgCl2 as an adjunct to resuscitation has any beneficial effect on the depressed gut absorptive capacity (GAC) after hemorrhage and, if so, whether alterations in whole blood viscosity (WBV) are, in part, responsible for those effects. Rats were anesthetized, a laparotomy was performed (i.e., trauma induced), and blood vessels were cannulated. The animals then underwent fixed pressure (40 mmHg) hemorrhage, followed by resuscitation with lactated Ringer solution. One group received 50 mumol/kg ATP-MgCl2 and another received saline during resuscitation. At 2 and 4 h after the end of hemorrhage, a 1-h D-xylose absorption test was performed. Viscosity determinations were made at corresponding time points in another set of rats subjected to sham hemorrhage, acute hemodilution, or hemorrhage and resuscitation. Results show that xylose absorption is depressed after hemorrhage and resuscitation and that ATP-MgCl2 restored it to normal. D-Xylose absorption was inhibited by glucose, indicating a facilitated transport process. Furthermore, WBV was reduced by the administration of ATP-MgCl2. Thus ATP-MgCl2 improves GAC early after hemorrhage and resuscitation, possibly by reducing WBV, and may be a useful adjunct to resuscitation, allowing for early enteral nutrition.