FASEB J. 18: Abstr. 269.6.
The objective of this experiment was to determine the effects of diet and age on fermentative end-product concentrations in the proximal, mid, and distal regions of the dog colon. Twelve old (age = 11 yr) and 12 young adult (age = 1.2 yr) beagles were randomly assigned to one of two dietary treatments: an animal product-based diet (APB) and a plant product-based diet (PPB). Digesta samples were analyzed for ammonia, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), branched-chained fatty acids (BCFA), and indoles. Ammonia concentrations decreased (P < 0.05) from proximal to distal colon and were greater in older dogs (P < 0.10) and in those consuming APB (P < 0.05). Although total SCFA and BCFA concentrations were not different between groups, differences were observed in certain individual SCFA and BCFA. Age and treatment affected butyrate concentrations, with old dogs and dogs consuming APB having higher (P < 0.05) values. Animals consuming APB had greater (P < 0.0001) indole concentrations than those consuming PPB. Concentrations of indole increased from proximal to distal colon. These results have implications regarding incidence of intestinal disease and cancer in the elderly and in those consuming animal-based, high protein diets. This research was supported by Pyxis Genomics, Inc.