Effects of Mineral Deficiencies on Amino Acid Utilization. Critical Role of Potassium and Phosphorus

Abstract

Results of this study point to the critical role of K in amino acid utilization following protein depletion. Rats depleted only of protein failed completely, even when offered a complete source of amino acids, if at the same time K was withheld. If P was withheld during the repletion period, the rate of recovery was lessened, but complete failure and deaths did not result as with K deprivation. Deprivation of Na, Ca or Mg did not appear to have immediate limiting effects on the appetite of protein-depleted rats for a complete amino acid source or on their ability to recover lost wt. Fourteen mg. of K/rat/day appeared to meet the requirement for this element. Addition of 10 milliequivalents of K per liter to the intraven. fibrin hydrolysate, Aminosol, appear to supply an effective, safe ratio of K to amino acid nitrogen.