Proteome changes are caused by aging and diet in the intestinal epithelium
The small intestine forms one of the most vital interfaces between our environment and body. The small intestine is not only responsible for the absorption of nutrients, but it also acts as a barrier to potentially harmful environmental stimuli. A team of researchers led by the Leibniz Institute on Aging (FLI), in Jena, Germany investigated the effects that aging and diet had on the intestinal epitheliums of old and young mice. The researchers were able show age-related impairments and region-specific effects of the proteome. The results of their study provide a comprehensive picture of the spatial organisation of the small intestinal proteome of mice. The results have been published in Cell Reports.
The small intestine is one of our most important interfaces with the environment. It performs two main functions: it absorbs nutrients from food and acts as a barrier that prevents harmful substances from entering the body. The SI is an organ that adapts quickly to changes in diet or nutrient intake. Every 3-5 days, the intestinal epithelium goes through a continuous renewal process.
The effects of diet and aging on the small intestine has already been studied. The epithelium is known to be less able to absorb nutrients as we age, contributing to malnutrition among elderly people. The SI is divided into different regions, and the differences in anatomy are well-known. However, the effects of diet, aging, and region-specific changes on the proteins that make up the intestinal epithelium have not yet been studied.
Source:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-05-aging-diet-proteome-intestinal-epithelium.html
