The present study explored the effects of glutamate (Glu) on the growth, antioxidant capacity, and gene expression of NF-E2-related nuclear factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling molecule in enterocytes of Jian carp (Cyprinus carpio var. Jian). The enterocytes were incubated in media containing 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mM/L Glu for 96 h. The results showed that Glu could promote fish enterocytes proliferation and differentiation. Additionally, activities of alkaline phosphatase, Na(+), K(+)-ATPase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, and creatine kinase were significantly improved with the increase in Glu level up to 6 mM/L. Lactic acid dehydrogenase activity and malondialdehyde content in the medium and cellular protein carbonyls were depressed by Glu. Moreover, optimum Glu significantly enhanced glutathione content and the activities and gene expression of catalase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione peroxidase in enterocytes. Finally, the expression level of Nrf2 in enterocytes was significantly elevated by appropriate Glu content in the medium. Furthermore, optimum Glu significantly decreased Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 mRNA level in enterocytes. In conclusion, Glu improved the proliferation, function, and antioxidant capacity and regulated antioxidant-related signaling molecule expression of fish enterocytes.
Keywords: Antioxidant capacity; Enterocytes; Glutamate; Growth; Signaling molecule.