Dietary Requirements for Vitamin E and Selenium Measured at the Cellular Level in the Chick

Abstract

Dietary requirements for vitamin E in the presence of adequate selenium, and for selenium in the presence of adequate vitamin E, were determined in vitamin E-depleted chicks fed a semipurified basal diet low in selenium and vitamin E. Inhibition of in vitro ascorbic acid-stimulated peroxidation in hepatic microsomes was used as a parameter. Results showed that both nutrients were required for complete protection of these membranes. Vitamin E was required at 30 to 50 IU per kilogram diet. This level also was required for optimal growth and utilization of dietary vitamin E as plasma tocopherols in selenium-adequate chicks. Selenium was required at 0.06 ppm (as Na₂SeO₃) for inhibition of peroxidation. This level also was required for optimal growth in vitamin E-adequate chicks.