Protein turnover—what does it mean for animal production?

Abstract

The dynamics of protein turnover confer great advantages for homeothermy, plasticity and metabolic function in mammals. The different roles played by the various organs have led to aspects of protein synthesis and degradation that aid the various functions performed. The so-called “non-productive” organs such as the gastro-intestinal tract and liver produce large quantities of export proteins that perform vital functions. Not all these proteins are recovered, however, and thus function can result in lowered net conversion of plant protein to animal products. The splanchnic tissues also oxidize essential amino acids (AA). For example, the gut catabolizes leucine, lysine and methionine, but not threonine and phenylalanine, as part of a complex interaction between AA supply and tissue metabolic activity. Losses by oxidation and endogenous secretions can markedly alter the pattern of absorbed AA. The fractional rates of extraction of total AA inflow to the liver are low and this allows short-term flexibility in controlling supply to peripheral tissues. Recent evidence suggests that the role of the liver in AA catabolism is more a response to non-use by other tissues rather than an immediate regulation of supply to the periphery. Neither arterial supply of AA nor the rate of transport into peripheral tissues limits protein gain, except when supply is very limited. Rather, control is probably exerted via hormone-nutrient interactions. Key words: Protein synthesis, amino acid, gastro-intestinal tract, liver, muscle, mammary gland