Effects of elevated zinc intake on the copper metabolism and the pancreas of the mouse
Sutomo, F.X.; Woutersen, R.A.; Van den Hamer, C.J.
Journal of Trace Elements and Electrolytes in Health and Disease 6(2): 75-80
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0931-2838 PMID: 1384853 Document Number: 387983
The effects of moderately elevated zinc intake on copper metabolism and on the pancreas were studied. Zn (80 mg/litre) as acetate was added to the drinking water of male Swiss mice for up to 12 weeks, which increased the total daily Zn intake to about 5 times the adequate amount. Total Cu and Zn in tissues was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. 64Cu was used to measure some effects of Zn supplementation on Cu metabolism. Furthermore, ceruloplasmin and amylase in plasma and superoxide dismutase in erythrocytes were measured. The pancreas was examined by light microscopy. The Zn supplementation decreased 64Cu absorption and increased retention of 64Cu, but did not lead to Cu deficiency. Microscopic examination of the pancreas revealed focal hypertrophy of acinar cells, occasionally accompanied by vacuolation of cytoplasm and/or the presence of degenerated cells. The results warn against the chronic use in man of high doses of Zn for non-medical purposes.