Role of supplementation of a nucleic acid solution on the intestinal mucosa under total parenteral nutrition.

Since dietary nucleotides play an important role in the growth and development of the intestine, supplementation of a nucleic acid solution (OG-VI) may support the optimal growth and integrity of the intestine under total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Supplementation of OG-VI to a TPN solution improved mucosal morphologic and functional changes, increased mucosal proliferation, and decreased mucosal permeability of the intestine. After 80% small bowel resection, OG-VI supplementation to a TPN solution attenuated the initial mucosal atrophy and improved intestinal cell turnover. Nucleic acid supplementation may be clinically beneficial in certain situations.