Processes of formation and absorption of volatile fatty acids (VFA) in the rumen of sheep, and their effect on the size of the epithelial layer.

摘要

A study was made of the formation and transport of volatile fatty acids (VFA) and the relationship between these processes and morphostructural changes of the mucous membrane in the rumens of 2- to 4-year-old Tsigay sheep (38-40 kg liveweight). Blood and rumen fluid samples were collected before feeding with hay + balanced concentrates and afterwards at 1, 3, 5, and 7 h intervals. Results indicated that an increase in VFA concentration in the rumen fluid from 8 to 12.5 mmol/100 ml stimulated the formation of intercellular cytoplasmic bridges. An increase in dimensions of intercellular space by 1.7 times indicated intensive transport of metabolic products from the rumen cavity into the blood stream. VFA content during this period increased from 1.3to 2.5 mmol/litre. It is suggested that nutrient transfer through rumen mucosa to the bloodstream takes place by several routes, including intercellular spaces and cytoplasmatic membranes.