Changes of α-transducin expression evoked by fasting and re-feeding in the pig gastrointestinal tract

This study was aimed to establish the effects evoked by fasting (F) and refeeding (R) on the distribution of α-transducin (α-T, the signalling molecule of taste receptors [TRs]) immunoreactive (IR) cells in the mucosa of the pig GI tract. α-T and chromogranin A (CgA) and ghrelin (Grel) colocalizations were also evaluated by double labelling immunofluorescence. The highest density of α-T-IR cells has been shown in the mucosa of cardias, pylorus, and duodenum. The percentage of α-T/CgA-IR cells was reduced in the GI tract of F and R vs controls. Grel/α-T has been detected in the stomach. F/R contribute to TR expression, particularly in the upper GI tract. These data open new perspectives on the role of TRs in the regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis in health and disease state.