The effects of dietary protein on the canine colonic microstructure and mucosal energetics

Abstract

Fifteen adult mongrel dogs were fed one of three diets which varied in the level of dietary protein (12, 24 or 36%). Dogs were maintained on their respective diets for a minimum of 14 days prior to experimentation. Mucosal tissues were collected from the proximal, mid and distal colon for analysis of oxygen consumption rate, protein content and morphometric analysis. Colonic mass, protein content and mucosal energetics were lower (P<0.05) in dogs fed 12% versus 24 & 36% protein diets. In addition, tissue energetics increased with the level of dietary protein fed (P<0.05). Morphometric studies revealed an increased (P<0.05) in colonic surface area to mucosal volume ratio in dogs fed the 24 and 36% protein, over dogs fed 12% dietary protein.