TGF-β2, EGF and FGF21 influence the suckling rat intestinal maturation

J Nutr Biochem. 2025 Jan:135:109778. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2024.109778. Epub 2024 Oct 5.

Abstract

Some of the growth factors present in breast milk, such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), play important roles in the development of the intestinal tract. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a supplementation with TGF-β2, EGF and FGF21 on suckling rats intestinal maturation. For this purpose, Wistar rats were supplemented daily with TGF-β2, EGF or FGF21 throughout the suckling period. We evaluated the functionality of the intestinal epithelial barrier through an in vivo dextran permeability assay, and by a histomorphometric and immunohistochemical study. In addition, the intestinal gene expression of tight junction-associated proteins, mucins, toll-like receptors, and maturation markers was analyzed. Moreover, the intraepithelial lymphocyte (IEL) phenotypical composition was established. During the suckling period, the supplementation with TGF-β2, EGF and FGF21 showed important signs of intestinal maturation. These results suggest that these molecules, present in breast milk, play a modulatory role in the maturation of the intestinal barrier function and the IEL composition during the suckling period.

Keywords: Breast milk; Growth factors; Intestinal barrier function; Intestinal immunity; Intraepithelial lymphocytes; Neonatal rats.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Suckling*
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Epidermal Growth Factor* / metabolism
  • Female
  • Fibroblast Growth Factors* / metabolism
  • Intestinal Mucosa / drug effects
  • Intestinal Mucosa / metabolism
  • Intestines / drug effects
  • Male
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar*
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta2* / metabolism

Substances

  • Fibroblast Growth Factors
  • Epidermal Growth Factor
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta2
  • fibroblast growth factor 21