Glutamine and the preservation of gut integrity

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#adult #aged #female #glutamine #humans

Glutamine and the preservation of gut integrity

van et al., 1993 | Lancet | Rct

Citation

van der Hulst R R, van Kreel B K, ... Soeters P B. Glutamine and the preservation of gut integrity. Lancet. 1993-May-29;341(8857):1363-5

Abstract

Parenteral glutamine dipeptide improves nitrogen balance in postoperative patients on total parenteral nutrition (TPM). Animal studies show that the structure and function of the gut is preserved by glutamine. It is not known if this is the case in human beings. 20 patients admitted to hospital for total parenteral nutrition were randomly allocated to receive parenteral nutrition enriched with glycyl-L-glutamine (Gln TPN), or standard parenteral nutrition (STPN). Mucosal biopsy specimens were taken from the second part of the duodenum before starting parenteral nutrition, and after two weeks. The ratio between the urine concentrations of lactulose and mannitol after enteral administration was used to measure intestinal permeability. After two weeks of parenteral nutrition in the GlnTPN group, intestinal permeability was unchanged, whereas permeability in the STPN group increased. Villus height was unaltered in the GlnTPN group but in the STPN group it decreased. The addition of glutamine to parenteral nutrition prevents deterioration of gut permeability and preserves mucosal structure.

Key Findings

The addition of glutamine to parenteral nutrition prevents deterioration of gut permeability and preserves mucosal structure.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 20
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Glutamine
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Mucosa
  • Lactulose
  • Male
  • Mannitol
  • Middle Aged
  • Parenteral Nutrition, Total
  • Permeability

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Rct
  • Publication Types: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Vertical: glutamine-gut

Provenance

  • PMID: 8098788
  • DOI: (not available)
  • PMCID: Not in PMC
  • Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09