Jejunal function and plasma amino acid concentrations in the segmental trisomic Ts65Dn mouse

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Physiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The Ts65Dn mouse model is trisomic for the distal portion of MMU 16.
• Understanding jejunal function and amino acid metabolism is crucial for physiological studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate differences in jejunal function and plasma amino acid concentrations between Ts65Dn mice and diploid controls.
• To assess O2 consumption, glucose uptake, and jejunal morphology in Ts65Dn mice.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of whole-body and intestinal O2 consumption between Ts65Dn and control mice.
• Measurement of jejunal glucose uptake and plasma amino acid concentrations.
• Histomorphometric analysis of jejunal mucosa.

Main Results:

• Ts65Dn mice showed lower O2 consumption per gram of fasted body weight.
• No significant differences in active or passive glucose uptake were observed.
• Ts65Dn mice exhibited higher apparent energetic efficiency of jejunal active glucose uptake.
• Shorter villus height and decreased villus circumference were noted in Ts65Dn mice.
• Elevated plasma concentrations of tyrosine, phenylalanine, valine, leucine, isoleucine, and citrulline were found in Ts65Dn mice.
• Lower plasma hydroxyproline concentrations were detected in Ts65Dn mice.

Conclusions:

• Ts65Dn mice display anomalies in digestive function, including altered oxygen consumption and jejunal morphology.
• Significant differences in plasma amino acid profiles suggest metabolic disturbances in Ts65Dn mice.
• These findings highlight the physiological impact of trisomy on MMU 16 in mice.