Photo credit: www.sciencedaily.com
Exploring the Remarkable Intestinal Regeneration of Snakes
All animals have some degree of capability for intestinal regeneration, a process fundamental to maintaining digestive health. In mammals, including humans, this ongoing regeneration involves the continuous turnover of intestinal cells, primarily driven by stem cells situated in specialized areas known as intestinal crypts, or small indentations in the intestinal wall. This cellular replacement allows the intestines to adapt to daily dietary needs effectively.
In a striking contrast, species such as boas and pythons, which experience extended periods without feeding, exhibit extraordinary examples of intestinal regeneration without the presence of intestinal crypts. During fasting periods, their intestines may atrophy, becoming significantly diminished in size and functionality. Yet, following feeding, these snakes can experience a dramatic increase in intestinal mass—more than doubling within just 48 hours—alongside the repair of crucial intestinal structures necessary for digestion and nutrient absorption. This regenerative capability is coupled with substantial physiological and metabolic adjustments.
To investigate this unique adaptation, a collaborative team of scientists from The University of Texas at Arlington, UT Southwestern Medical Center, and the University of Alabama conducted an RNA gene sequencing study on pythons. Their goal is to uncover insights that could enhance understanding and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases in humans, including conditions like diabetes, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and cancer.
“We utilized single-cell RNA sequencing to delve into the intestinal regeneration processes in pythons and discovered that they activate similar developmental pathways seen in humans, albeit in distinct manners,” noted Todd Castoe, a biology professor at UT Arlington and the lead author of the study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
“Interestingly, the signaling pathways governing python regeneration exhibit notable parallels to those that come into play in humans after undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgeries aimed at weight reduction and the management of type 2 diabetes,” added Siddharth Gopalan, co-author and a Ph.D. candidate in Dr. Castoe’s research group.
This research enriches our comprehension of the interconnectedness of intestinal regeneration and the body’s metabolic adaptations in response to factors such as nutrient levels and environmental stressors. Moreover, it provides a framework for understanding how these regenerative pathways may operate similarly across various vertebrates, humans included, suggesting novel avenues for therapeutic development aimed at gastrointestinal and metabolic disorders.
“Our discoveries also underscore the critical role of a particular intestinal cell type known as BEST4+ cells in orchestrating the regeneration process,” Castoe remarked. “These cells are found in both pythons and humans, yet are absent in commonly used animal models like mice. They are essential regulators during the initial stages of intestinal regeneration, facilitating lipid transport and metabolism. This highlights the significant, yet often overlooked, roles BEST4+ cells may play in human digestive health.”
Collectively, these insights deepen our knowledge of intestinal physiology and regeneration.
“Understanding digestive processes in other animal species enhances our grasp of the evolutionary mechanics underlying these essential bodily functions,” concluded Castoe. “This research will contribute to advancing our understanding of human health, ultimately aiming to improve the treatment and prevention of prevalent digestive disorders.”
Support for this project was provided by the National Science Foundation award IOS-655735.
Source
www.sciencedaily.com