Intestinal absorption processes

"Intestinal absorption processes" refer to the concerted physiological mechanisms by which dietary nutrients, water, electrolytes, and drugs are transported from the intestinal lumen, across epithelial cells, into the bloodstream or lymphatics[1][3][4]. These processes employ a variety of molecular systems, including **transporters** (e.g., SGLT1 for glucose, PEPT1 for peptides, NHE3 for sodium), **channels** (e.g., ENaC for sodium), **enzymes** (e.g., brush border hydrolases), and **tight junction** structures composed of proteins such as claudins, occludins, and ZO1/2/3[1][4][5]. Absorption can be **active** (requiring energy) or **passive** (diffusion), and can occur transcellularly (through cells) or paracellularly (between cells), with regional specialization along the intestine[3][5]. Individual inherited or acquired defects in the molecules mediating these processes can result in disease (e.g., mutations in SLC26A3 causing congenital chloride diarrhea, SLC9A3 for sodium absorption defects), underlining their physiological and clinical importance[1]. **No unique molecular entity** corresponds to "intestinal absorption processes," making this an inappropriate entry for therapeutic target databases or structured molecular target ontologies.

Other names

Intestinal absorptionAbsorption processes of the intestineNutrient absorption (intestine)Intestinal uptake

Not applicable to the overall process. Drugs can: - Inhibit or modulate specific transporters/channels (e.g., sodium-glucose cotransport, Na^+/H^+^ exchange) - Alter tight junction permeability - Modify absorption via changes in solubility or intestinal motility