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Abstract
Background: The endothelial and epithelial barriers are important for maintenance of intestinal barrier function. The present study evaluated the response of these barriers after various challenges. Methods: Mucosal endothelial and epithelial barrier integrity was evaluated by the leakage of human serum albumin, labeled with different isotopes, from the circulation to the interstitium and the intestinal lumen, or from the intestinal lumen to the interstitium and the circulation, in rats with endothelial or epithelial challenge. Results: Epithelial barrier dysfunction and alterations in epithelial microvillous ultrastructure showed a pattern dependent on the dose of the intraluminal detergents, whereas only higher doses induced an increase in endothelial barrier permeability. Intravenous challenge with CHAPS or Triton caused a dose-dependent increase in both endothelial and epithelial barrier permeability. The development of endothelial barrier dysfunction was related to a decrease in blood pH values. Conclusions: The results indicate that capillary endothelial barrier integrity may play an important role in maintaining intestinal barrier function and that endothelial injury may initiate or at least be involved in the development of intestinal barrier failure.