Glycine Regulates Expression and Distribution of Claudin-7 and ZO-3 Proteins in Intestinal Porcine Epithelial Cells

Glycine traditionally is classified as a nutritionally nonessential amino acid in humans and animals. Because of its abundance in the body and its extensive use via multiple pathways, requirements for glycine are particularly high in neonates. Our recent studies show that dietary glycine supplementation is needed for optimal intestinal development in piglets. Importantly, reduced concentrations of glycine in the lumen of the small intestine are associated with gut dysfunction in low-birth-weight piglets. However, the mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects of glycine on the intestinal mucosal barrier are largely unknown.