Changes in relative molecular weight distribution of soluble barley beta-glucan during passage through the small intestine of pigs

• Barley soluble beta-glucans are depolymerized in pigs during passage through the small intestine.
• Significant depolymerization has occurred already at the duodenum.
• The depolymerization continues throughout the small intestine.
• Degree of depolymerization varies with barley variety.

The relative molecular weight distribution of soluble barley beta-glucans (SBB) was monitored through the small intestine in pigs by analyzing water extracts of duodenal- and ileal digesta with HPLC-SEC. Variations among four diets, based on four different barley varieties, were documented as well as variations between animals fed the same diet. The results showed depolymerization of the SBB throughout the whole small intestine independent of diet. The average molecular weight of the SBB was reduced to approximately 50% in duodenum in all the experimental animals.

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