Role of AMP activated protein kinase signaling pathway in intestinal development of mammals

Intestinal tract is an important digestive organ, which takes on the functions of nutrient absorption, bile and metabolic waste excretion. Impaired intestinal barrier function might lead to inflammatory and intestinal diseases. Structure and function of intestinal tract is closely related to differentiation and development of intestinal cells. Differentiation and development of intestinal cells are coordinated and regulated via signaling pathways such as adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), Wnt and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways. AMPK signaling pathway plays an important role in energy balance of intestinal cells and provides a theoretical basis for the treatment of intestinal diseases. Herein, we systematically summarizes the respective morphological characteristics of intestinal development in mammals, molecular mechanisms of intestinal development, AMPK signaling pathway and AMPK signaling pathway involved in intestinal tissue cell development.