Changes in Hemoglobin, Hematocrit and Plasma Protein in Vitamin B6-Deficient Rats During Pregnancy

Abstract

Weekly changes in the concentration of total protein of the plasma, in hemoglobin and in hematocrit were observed in control and vitamin B₆-deficient pregnant and non-pregnant rats. Non-pregnant rats receiving a deoxypyridoxine supplement exhibited a tendency toward early hemoconcentration evidenced by a marked increase in the concentration of total protein in the plasma and an increase in hematocrit. Continued administration of the deoxypyridoxine led to a decreased ability to synthesize both hemoglobin and blood cells. Administration of pyridoxine to animals previously depleted of their vitamin B₆ stores led to a restoration of blood volume as indicated by a marked fall in the concentration of total protein and in the levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit. This was followed by a return of both hemoglobin and hematocrit to the levels observed at the beginning of the experiment. The concentration of total protein at the end of the experimental period was higher than at the beginning and was probably due to the increase in tissue synthesis during the rehabilitation period. The response of the pregnant and non-pregnant controls was similar during the first two weeks. During the third week, the pregnant animals exhibited a marked fall in the concentration of total protein, hemoglobin and hematocrit indicating hemodilution of late pregnancy. The effect of depletion upon the concentration of hemoglobin and blood cells appears to be independent of fetal development.