1H NMR study of metabolic alterations in the small intestine of rats infected with Hymenolepis diminuta.

1H NMR spectra of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum tissues of the small intestine of a rat showed metabolic gradients. 2. The concentrations of metabolites in these gut regions were altered by the presence of the tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta. 3. In the infected duodenum there was significantly less glycogen, glucose and phosphocreatine/creatine, but significantly more lactate than in the corresponding controls. 4. Infected jejunum contained significantly less betaine but significantly more succinate, alanine and lactate. 5. Infected ileum had significantly less glycogen and taurine but significantly more alanine and lactate.