Genetic evidence for role of DPP IV in intestinal hydrolysis and assimilation of prolyl peptides

Japan F344 rats, deficient in dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV) were employed in examining DPP IV influence on intestinal hydrolysis and prolyl peptide uptake. Brush-border membrane hydrolysis was lesser in the Japan specimens. Control rats possessed greater resistance to weight loss than Japan F344 rats. In Japan rat's intestinal lumen, hydrolysis-resistant morphiceptin impact was higher. These Japan rat-specific reactions are attributed to the lack of DPP IV in the Japan rat-system.