Effects of agar and Ficus awkeotsang makino on mucin degradation and intestinal permeability of phenol red in rats
Shiau, S.Y.; Yue, J.
Journal of the Formosan Medical Association 85(9): 869-877
1986
ISSN/ISBN: 0371-7682 PMID: 3031198 Document Number: 282982
The role of agar, and Ficus awkeotsang makino in the protection of intestinal mucus and intestinal permeability were investigated. Rats fed 15% agar gained significantly (P < 0.01) less weight than the rats receiving all other diets. Specific mucinase activity was higher in rats fed 15% agar, 5% agar or fiber-free diet, and lower in 5% or 15% of Ficus awkeotsang makino. The difference between the 15% agar group and the 5% or 15% Ficus awkeotsang makino was significant (P < 0.05). Specific .beta.-glucuronidase activity was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in rats receiving 15% agar or fiber-free basal diet than the rats receiving 15% cellulose diet or 15% Ficus awkeotsang makino diet. Total .beta.-glucuronidase activity followed the same trend, however, the differences were not significant (P > 0.05). Urinary dye recovery was higher in the fiber-free group and lower in 15% cellulose group, but the differences were not significant (P < 0.05). These data suggest that dietary fiber deficiency and/or agar in the diet may enhance mucin degradation by the microflora and the intestine so that it might permit invasion of foreign compounds such as toxic substances.