Physiological Effects of Dietary Amino Acids on Gut Health and Functions of Swine.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review of animal physiological mechanisms
PubMed 31245390 · doi:10.3389/fvets.2019.00169
What was done
This narrative review synthesized literature on the physiological and metabolic roles of dietary amino acids in maintaining gut health, mucosal integrity, and host-microbiota interactions in swine.
What was found
The abstract reports qualitative physiological roles rather than quantitative effect sizes: - Glutamate, glutamine, and aspartate function as primary oxidative fuels for the small intestinal mucosa. - Arginine activates the mTOR signaling pathway in the small intestine. - Glycine acts as a cytoprotectant and precursor for mucosal glutathione synthesis. - Methionine and cysteine metabolism produces glutathione, homocysteine, and taurine, supporting intestinal immune and antioxidant defenses. - Threonine is necessary for mucin synthesis and barrier maintenance; both dietary deficiency and excess reduce mucosal protein and mucin synthesis in young pigs.
Why it matters
This review outlines how specific amino acids support swine intestinal barrier function and immune defenses, informing targeted feed formulations beyond crude protein requirements.
Limits
As a narrative review, it does not use systematic search methodology or risk-of-bias assessment. The abstract reports no numerical effect sizes, sample sizes, or specific dosage recommendations.
Cited by
- context Glutamate from consumed meats helps heal the digestive tract lining.