Expression of Tissue IGF 1, TGFß and EGFR in the Sequential Steps of Intestinal Adaptation in a Rat Model of Short Bowel Syndrome

Abstract

Background : The long-term morphological changes and the expression of tissue growth factors IGF 1, TGFß and EGFR in the gut mucosa, during the process of intestinal adaptation were examined.

Methods : Four groups of rats were used: a. Sham rats (n = 10) underwent bowel transection and reanastomosis, b. SBS rats underwent an 80% small bowel resection: group A rats (n = 10) were sacrificed 15 days after surgery, group B (n = 10), 30 days after surgery, and group C (n = 10), 60 days after surgery. Morphological small bowel parameters (villus height, lumen diameter and others) of adaptation were examined sequentially. Tissue samples were studied immunohistochemically for the detection of IGF 1, TGFß, and EGFR.

Results : There was a significant increase in all morphological parameters at day 15, in the intestinal samples; a further increase followed at day 30 and day 60 (p < 0.0001). Accordingly, an increase in the expression of IGF 1, TGFß and EGFR was noted at day 15 (p < 0.05), and at day 30 (NS).

Conclusion : Intestinal adaptation is an ongoing process lasting more than 2 months after massive small bowel resection. Peptide growth factors are expressed in the intestine continuously during this period, but the first two weeks are the most critical for the mucosal growth.

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E.P. Misiakos

E. P. Misiakos, M.D., F.A.C.S. Assist. Professor of Surgery 76 Aigeou Pelagous Street Agia Paraskevi Athens 15 341, Greece Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone] E-mail: [email protected]