Factors affecting liver lipid content in pyridoxine-deficient rats. I. Dietary protein levels.

Abstract

Effects of choline fortification and various dietary protein levels on liver lipid content in pyridoxine-deficient rats were studied. Choline fortification did not prevent the accumulation of liver lipids in pyridoxine-deficient rats. Considerable accumulation of liver lipids was observed in the 70% casein pyridoxine-deprived group. Reducing the protein level in the diet decreased the extent of lipid accumulation. A highly negative correlation was found between liver lipid content and liver GPT [alanine aminotransferase, EC 2.6.1.2] activity, indicating that the fatty infiltration of the liver may be intimately related to the pyridoxine deficiency state. The time course of fatty liver induction upon feeding of a 70% casein pyridoxine-deficient diet was also studied. The liver lipid content increased gradually and reached the highest value by the 3rd wk with a concomitant decrease in food intake. Effect of change of dietary compositions on fatty liver caused by 70% casein pyridoxine-free diet was examined. Feeding of a 70% casein pyridoxine-supplemented diet or a 20% casein pyridoxine-free diet caused decreases in the liver lipids.