Autoradiographic localization of Na(+)-dependent L-valine uptake by the jejunum of streptozotocin-diabetic rats.

The mechanisms involved in the increased Na(+)-dependent nutrient uptake across intestine of diabetic animals are poorly understood. Here we have studied the effect of acute (7d) and chronic (30-40d) diabetes on the autoradiographic localization of 3H-L-valine accumulation by rat jejunal villi and on enterocyte migration rate. In control rats, Na(+)-dependent valine uptake was confined to enterocytes on the upper 20-23% of the villus. In intestine from diabetic rats, however, this area was extended to occupy the upper 42-45% of an enlarged villus surface. Hyperphagia was not responsible for the expanded functional surface and systemic factors are therefore implicated in the adaptive response. Enterocyte migration rate was found to be unaffected by diabetes but an increased villus height in this condition resulted in an additional 13.5 h in enterocyte lifespan. These data are compatible with the hypothesis that during diabetes the earlier maturation of enterocyte absorptive function produces an epithelial surface containing a higher proportion of mature enterocytes.