Some functional manifestations of the protein depletion of sheep tissues

Abstract

In order to elucidate the alterations in tissue function of Merino sheep feeding on a low protein, low energy diet, the sequential measurement of a number of clinical parameters has been performed. Emphasis has been directed to the protein storage tissues, and the following indices were measured: bromsulphthalein clearance; serum levels of glutamic oxalacetic transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, total cholesterol, cholesterol esters, total proteins, electrophoretic protein fractions, and urea; urinary volume, and urine creatine, creatinine, and urea.

Alterations in these indices were consistent with a marked degree of liver dysfunction occurring after several weeks on the experimental diet. No significant changes were apparent in the functional ability of kidney or muscle.