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Trophic factors for the gastrointestinal tract
1Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, USA.
Clinics in Perinatology
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Growth factors in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are vital for development and repair. Human milk contains bioactive compounds that protect breast-fed infants from GI illnesses, highlighting their therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Developmental Biology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Gastrointestinal (GI) trophic factors are identified that influence coordinated pre- and postnatal GI tract growth and development.
- Studies in animals and humans show GI trophic factors initiate cellular growth, differentiated function, and are crucial for adaptation and repair after injury.
- Systemic and enteral administration of growth factors stimulate GI growth and maturation, suggesting neonatal serum trophic factors may modulate GI growth via enterocyte receptors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of GI trophic factors in GI tract development, maturation, and repair.
- To explore the protective effects of human milk growth factors against GI illnesses in infants.
- To discuss the therapeutic potential of GI trophic factors for enhancing GI maturation and repair, especially in premature or postsurgical infants.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on GI trophic factors in animal models and human infants.
- Analysis of the impact of human milk growth factors on infant GI health.
- Discussion of potential therapeutic applications and areas for future research.
Main Results:
- GI trophic factors, whether endogenous or from milk, are critical for GI development and adaptation.
- Human milk growth factors contribute to the protective effect of breastfeeding against GI illnesses like diarrhea and necrotizing enterocolitis.
- GI trophic factors show potential for therapeutic use in enhancing GI maturation and repair.
Conclusions:
- GI trophic factors play a significant role in GI tract development, function, and protection.
- Human milk bioactive compounds offer protective benefits against GI diseases in infants.
- Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms, optimize administration, and establish safety limits for therapeutic applications of GI trophic factors.