Experimental zinc deficiency in guinea-pigs: biochemical changes.

1. Zinc deficiency was produced experimentally in guinea-pigs fed on a diet containing 1.25 mg Zn/kg diet over a period of 60 d. In addition, the response of the Zn-deficient (ZnD) animals to Zn supplementation was studied for 15 d. 2. In the ZnD group a significant reduction was found in serum Zn and protein concentrations and in alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1; AP) activity from day 24 onwards. 3. Paper electrophoretic studies on serum revealed a significant decrease in relative values, as well as absolute values, of albumin and gamma-globulin and an increase in beta-globulin. 4. Albumin:globulin increased on day 24 but decreased significantly from day 48 onwards. 5. The kidney and testis of the ZnD group showed a reduction in Zn and protein contents, and AP activity. 6. Zn supplementation of the previously ZnD group resulted in marked although incomplete improvement in the biochemical indices studied.