An Improved Synthetic Ration for Vitamin B4 Studies

Abstract

A revised method for the study of vitamin B₄ in chicks has been described. Changes in a synthetic ration for these studies, previously described, include purification of the casein and use of highly potent sources of the factors in the B complex other than B₄. It was found necessary to add to the ration a substance which prevents the occurrence of lesions in the lining of the gizzard of the experimental chicks. Dried lung tissue is a potent source of this ‘gizzard factor.’. On the improved basal synthetic ration a nutritional paralysis occurs in 100 per cent of the animals, which may be prevented by addition of supplements such as peanuts, brain, kidney or liver tissue.