Protein Malnutrition Essay Discussion: Alterations in Cellular Processes

Protein Malnutrition Essay Discussion: Alterations in Cellular Processes

Genetics: A Key Player in Individuality and Disease

Our genetic makeup defines our uniqueness and contributes significantly to our physical structure. Furthermore, it sheds light on the role of genes in the development of diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of understanding genetic factors and genetic disorders as crucial for promoting health and preventing diseases (CDC, 2021).

Exploring Scenario 3: Protein Malnutrition

In Scenario 3, we delve into the topic of Protein Malnutrition. Considering the case’s age factor, which is 83 years old, and the genetic correlations presented in the articles below, we gain insight into the implications of genetics in Protein Malnutrition (Title: Protein Malnutrition Essay Discussion: Alterations in Cellular Processes).

Aging and Cellular Dysfunction

Throughout life, cells face continuous exposure to detrimental environmental factors. The cumulative damage to cells contributes to the functional decline that characterizes the aging process. Progeroid syndromes serve as a prime example of how DNA damage can accelerate aging. These syndromes result from deficiencies in DNA repair mechanisms and manifest symptoms early in life (Li et al., 2009; Agherbi et al., 2009).

NRNP 6540 Week 5 Case Assignment – Case Title: A 67-year-old With Tachycardia and Coughing

Moreover, numerous genetic factors are implicated in the aging process. Specific gene combinations determine the lifespan, with alterations in a single gene leading to dramatic changes in duration, as seen in human progeroid syndromes (Navarro, Cau, & Levy, 2006). Mutations in genomic and mitochondrial DNA, resulting from reduced repair efficiency, partly contribute to the decline in somatic stem cell function, emphasizing the interaction between genetics and aging (Sharpless & DePinho, 2007).

Aging and its Impact on Nutrition

Aging also affects the perception of taste and smell, reducing the pleasure associated with eating for the elderly. These age-associated changes can lead to a fair to poor appetite, as elderly individuals frequently report a loss of both taste and smell, affecting food intake (Busse, 1980). Additionally, the loss of teeth due to bone changes further complicates chewing and swallowing, while reduced appetite is linked to medication-related reductions in saliva production, diminished taste ability, and poor oral health (Pilgrim, Robinson, Sayer & Roberts, 2015).

The Role of the Small Intestine

The small intestine plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption due to its extensive surface area provided by numerous microvilli. Proper absorption requires intact digestive organs, adequate blood supply, motility, and a healthy microflora. Malabsorption occurs when any of these components malfunction, leading to the failure of nutrient absorption from various causes (Babbin, Crawford, Sitaraman, 2006).

Meeting the Increased Nutrient Needs

Insufficient food intake necessitates increased protein and energy requirements for the body. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines malnutrition as deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in energy and nutrient intake (World Health Organization, 2016).

Venous Edema: An Indicator

Venous edema, characterized by swelling due to an increase in protein-poor interstitial fluid resulting from increased capillary filtration, is the most common type of leg edema (Blankfield, Finkelhor, Alexander, et al., 1998).

The Process of Protein Digestion and Absorption

At the cellular level, protein digestion and absorption initiate with proteolysis in the stomach, activated at low pH levels in an acidic environment. Proteolysis extent depends on pH levels, gastric motility, and dietary constituents present during the process. For instance, the release of cholecystokinin (CCK) in the duodenum and jejunum relies on amino acids’ presence in the stomach, stimulating the release of pancreatic enzymes. The duodenum further contributes to amino acid release through additional proteases’ action. Pancreatic enzymes break down proteins to amino acids, dipeptides, and tripeptides ready for absorption via brush border sodium-dependent amino acid co-transporters (Goodman, 2010).

The Global Impact of Malabsorption

Malabsorption affects millions globally, with multiple etiologies making its prevalence and incidence challenging to quantify. For instance, gluten-sensitive enteropathy (GSE) is most prevalent in Europeans and North Americans, with varying prevalence in other regions. Tropical sprue predominantly affects specific regions, further illustrating the complexity of malabsorption (Owens & Greenson, 2007) Protein Malnutrition Essay Discussion: Alterations in Cellular Processes.

References

CDC. (2021). Basics of genetics and genomics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/about/basics.htm

Li, B., Jog, S., Candelario, J., Reddy, S., & Comai, L. (2009). Altered Nuclear Functions in Progeroid Syndromes: A Paradigm for Aging Research. Scientific World Journal, 9, 1449–1462.

Agherbi, H., Gaussmann-Wenger, A., Verthuy, C., Chasson, L., Serrano, M., & Djabali, M. (2009). Polycomb-Mediated Epigenetic Silencing and Replication Timing at the INK4a/ARF Locus during Senescence. PLoS One, 4(3), e5622.

Navarro, C. L., Cau, P., & Levy, N. (2006). Molecular Bases of Progeroid Syndromes. Human Molecular Genetics, 15(Spec No 2), R151–R161.

Sharpless, N. E., & DePinho, R. A. (2007). How Stem Cells Age and Why This Makes Us Grow Old. Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 8(9), 703–713.

Busse, E. W. (1980). Eating in Late Life: Physiological and Psychological Factors. American Pharmacologist, 20, 36-38.

Pilgrim, A. L., Robinson, S. M., Sayer, A. A., & Roberts, H. C. (2015). An Overview of Appetite Decline in Older People. Nursing Older People, 27(5), 29–35.

Babbin, B. A., Crawford, K., & Sitaraman, S. V. (2006). Malabsorption Work-up: Utility of Small Bowel Biopsy. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 4(9), 1193–1198.

World Health Organization. (2016). Malnutrition. WHO. http://www.who.int/features/qa/malnutrition/en/

Blankfield, R. P., Finkelhor, R. S., Alexander, J. J., et al. (1998). Etiology and Diagnosis of Bilateral Leg Edema in Primary Care. American Journal of Medicine, 105(3), 192–197.

Goodman, B. E. (2010). Insights into Digestion and Absorption of Major Nutrients in Humans. Advances in Physiology Education, 34(2), 44-53.

Owens, S. R., & Greenson, J. K. (2007). The Pathology of Malabsorption: Current Concepts. Histopathology, 50(1),64-82.