FURTHER STUDIES ON CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM IN THE VITAMIN-B6-DEPRIVED RAT

Abstract

Earlier studies in this laboratory demonstrated abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism in the vitamin-B6-deprived rat. The results of further studies are reported in this communication. Following three weeks of vitamin B6 restriction, rats have significantly elevated levels of inorganic phosphorus and glutathione in blood and liver. These elevations in blood inorganic phosphorus and glutathione levels have been similarly demonstrated after only one week of vitamin B6 deprivation. Contrary to changes in liver glycogen levels, muscle glycogen levels are not altered by vitamin B6 deprivation in the rat. Insulin administration had a slightly more pronounced effect on blood sugar levels in vitamin-B6-deprived than in pair-fed control rats. Alloxan administration elevated blood sugar levels of deprived rats to a slightly greater extent than the levels of controls. In accord with the earlier studies, disturbances of carbohydrate metabolism can be readily demonstrated in vitamin-B6-deprived rats.