The glucagon like peptide-2 ‘axis’: Capacity for production and response following intestinal resection or repair of gastroschisis in infants

Abstract Purpose This study investigates the relationship between the enteric hormone glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2) production, sensitivity, and intestinal adaptation in infants following resection or repair of gastroschisis. Methods With IRB approval (UCalgary #10656), consent was obtained from families of infants undergoing surgery for prospective monitoring of nutritional status, GLP-2 levels, and where possible, tissue sampling. Results Infants who adapted and weaned from parenteral nutrition (PN) had increased GLP-2 (86±32) n=24 vs. controls: 45±20 n=10 and vs. patients on prolonged PN: 42±6 pM, n=10). This was maintained to one year: weaned patients: 72±49 vs. non-weaned: 35±15 pM (p Conclusion GLP-2 levels correlate with intestinal adaptation in infants, and with recovery of intestinal function in gastroschisis. GLP-2 productive capacity (L-cell expression) and GLP-2 receptor expression do not vary with maturity. The findings support a role for GLP-2 in regulating intestinal function. Further study is suggested.