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Immunostimulating effect of oral glutamine

M R Gismondo1, L Drago, M C Fassina

  • 1Clinical Microbiology Lab, L. Sacco Teaching Hospital, University of Milan, Italy.

Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|September 2, 1998
PubMed
Summary

Oral glutamine supplementation significantly boosted serum interleukin-2 (IL-2) levels and intestinal T-cell populations in mice. This suggests glutamine enhances immune function, potentially aiding gut health during stress.

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Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Nutrition Science
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Glutamine is a key metabolic fuel for rapidly proliferating cells.
  • Its potential immunoregulating properties warrant investigation for therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of oral glutamine on immune markers in mice.
  • Specifically, to assess changes in serum interleukin-2 (IL-2) and intestinal T-cell populations.

Main Methods:

  • 48 athymic mice were divided into two groups: glutamine-supplemented and control.
  • Glutamine was administered orally at a 4% concentration in drinking water for 10 days.
  • Serum IL-2 levels and intestinal T-cell counts were measured.

Main Results:

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  • Glutamine-fed mice showed a significant increase in serum IL-2 concentrations compared to controls.
  • A modest but significant increase in intestinal T-cell counts was observed in the glutamine group.
  • Oral glutamine demonstrated both local and systemic immunostimulating effects.

Conclusions:

  • Oral glutamine administration enhances immune responses, including IL-2 production and T-cell populations.
  • These findings suggest glutamine's potential role in maintaining gut integrity and immune defense during critical illness or physiological stress.
  • Further research may explore glutamine's clinical relevance in conditions like trauma, surgery, and starvation.