BIPHASIC ADAPTATION OF INTESTINAL MUCOSA UNDER HYPOKINESIA: EXPERIMENT IN WHITE RATS

Abstract

This study focuses on the phase-specific morphological changes in the small intestinal mucosa under prolonged hypokinesia using a model of outbred white rats. It was found that hypokinetic exposure induces a biphasic response in the intestinal wall. In the early phase (days 1–10), compensatory mechanisms are activated, manifested by increased mucus production, a rise in the number of goblet cells, and partial remodeling of the crypt-villus apparatus. In the late phase (days 30–60), signs of decompensation develop, including progressive shortening of villi, suppression of mitotic activity, disruption of cellular differentiation, and disorganization of mucosal architecture. Morphometric data reliably confirm the phase-dependent nature of these changes. The findings enhance understanding of intestinal adaptation mechanisms to reduced motor activity and emphasize the importance of early preventive intervention in conditions of physical inactivity.