Methods used to study intestinal nutrient transport: past and present

Abstract

Background: Vitally important to the future of surgical care is the study of nutrition and nutrient uptake. Advances in this field of research have become increasingly dependent upon the disciplines of immunology, histology, and molecular biology. The fusion of these sciences has deepened our insight into the relationship between molecular structure and physiologic function. The ability to apply new technologies to this endeavor will enable the surgeon-investigator to further widen our understanding of nutrient transport.

Materials and methods: Medline and current literature review.

Results and conclusions: We summarize many of the methods used to measure the uptake of nutrients by the intestinal epithelium, providing a historical perspective.