Effect of experimental zinc deficiency and repletion on sodium, potassium, copper and iron concentrations in guinea-pigs

Abstract

Zinc, sodium, potassium, copper and iron concentrations were analysed in serum and tissues of guinea-pigs fed on a diet containing 1.25 mg Zn/kg diet over a period of 60 d. The response of the Zn-deficient (ZnD) animals to Zn supplementation (100 mg Zn/kg diet) was also studied for 15 d. Serum studies in the ZnD group revealed significant decreases in the concentrations of Zn and Na from 24 d, and increases in the concentrations of Fe and K from 36 and 48 d onwards respectively; an increase in Cu was seen on day 60 only. Zn deficiency caused significant reductions in Na, K and Zn and increases in Cu and Fe contents of liver and kidney. In testis, significant decreases were noted only in Zn, K and Fe contents. Zn supplementation of the previously ZnD group resulted in marked improvements in serum and tissue mineral levels. However, hepatic Cu and Fe and renal K did not appear to respond appreciably.