Understanding and augmenting human intestinal adaptation: a call for more clinical research

Abstract

Since its description in the early 20th century, the phenomenon of intestinal adaptation has been the focus of considerable interest. However, there is a paucity of evidence documenting the significance of this phenomenon in man. Indeed, our understanding of intestinal adaptation is based almost exclusively on extrapolations from studies of laboratory rodents. Given the possibility of pharmacologically modifying select components of adaptation as a therapeutic strategy for patients with intestinal insufficiency, a clear understanding of human intestinal adaptation is of paramount importance.

We critically review the evidence for the existence of postresection intestinal adaptation in human patients and the efficacy of pharmacological strategies for augmenting components of this process.