Dietary-dependent changes in the enteric nervous system and endothelium of premature piglets

Chris J.D. Van Ginneken, Els R. Van Haver, Per Torp Sangild, Leen Van Brantegem, Andre Weyns

    Abstract

    After birth, intestinal morphology and function have to adapt at a high pace. This remodelling is more challenging in low birth weight neonates or in preterms, where it may result in necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). We hypothesized that in the preterm piglet, feeding induces maladaptations of the enteric nervous system (ENS) and vasculature. Using image analysis, the densities of neurons expressing VIP, glial cells containing GFAP and the endothelium containing eNOS on immunohistochemically stained small intestinal sections of preterm 1) unfed piglets, 2) piglets receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for 2-3. days and 3) piglets fed 2. days sow's colostrum (SOW) or formulated milk (FOR) following TPN were estimated.After enteral feeding, the ENS and vascular endothelium grew in the same order as the intestine. However, feeding formula increased the density of VIP'ergic myenteric neurons, lowered eNOS in the endothelium and resulted in a reactive gliosis. In conclusion, formula induces destructive changes in the immature small intestine, whereas colostrum prevents their occurrence. These conditions may be among the factors that predispose to NEC.

    OriginalsprogEngelsk
    TidsskriftLivestock Science
    Vol/bind133
    Udgave nummer1-3
    Sider (fra-til)23-25
    Antal sider3
    ISSN1871-1413
    DOI
    StatusUdgivet - sep. 2010

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