Ewha Med J.  2004 Mar;27(1):3-9. 10.12771/emj.2004.27.1.3.

Evaluation of Colonic Physiologic Properties in Old Rats using in vitro and in vivo Techniques

• Kim SE
• Jung SA

• KMID: 2171135
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2004.27.1.3

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
As the lifespan of men have been extended, the interest in functional aging process of each organs is increasing. The aim of this study was to investigate lbjectively several physiological changes in aged colon, using rats.
METHODS
We used old healthy Sprage-Dawley rats(n=33, over 17months), and young rats(n=28, 8 - 10weeks). Glass bead expulsion tests were done in vivo, and colon transit and muscle tension were measured in vitro.
RESULTS
For glass bead expulsion, more time was needed significantly in young rat group (p=0.028). The speed of colon transit was accelerated in distal colon significantly regardless of age, but the number of rats with complete transt was superior in young rat group. Development of tension in respose to Carbachol was not different significantly between two groups (p=0.345).
CONCLUSION
Colonic functional decline with age was observed through in vivo and in vitro study. Further studies are required to determine the real influences on a living body and the mechanisms involved in this motor change.

Keyword

Age; Colonic function; Rat

MeSH Terms

Aging
Animals
Carbachol
Colon*
Glass
Humans
Male
Muscle Tonus
Rats*
Carbachol