Regulation of intestinal blood flow

The gastrointestinal system anatomically is positioned to perform two disti nct functions: to digest and absorb ingested nutrients and to sustain barri er function to prevent transepithelial migration of bacteria and antigens, Alterations in these basic functions contribute to a variety of clinical sc enarios. These primary functions intrinsically require splanchnic blood dow at both the macrovascular and microvascular levels of perfusion. Therefore , a greater understanding of the mechanisms that regulate intestinal vascul ar perfusion in the normal state and during pathophysiological conditions w ould be beneficial. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current understanding regarding the regulatory mechanisms of intestinal blood how i n fasted and fed conditions and during pathological stress. (C) 2000 Academ ic Press.