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Fractional zinc absorption using a single isotope tracer
G S Yeung1, C S Schauer, S H Zlotkin
1Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|January 10, 2002
Summary
This study introduces a simplified method for measuring zinc absorption using a single oral isotope dose, eliminating the need for intravenous administration. The new approach accurately estimates zinc absorption, comparable to the traditional dual isotope method.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Biochemistry
- Medical Research
Background:
- Fractional absorption of zinc (Zn) is typically measured using dual isotopes with oral and intravenous doses.
- This method requires venipuncture and measurement of double isotopic enrichment in urine.
- A simpler method was investigated to reduce procedural complexity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine a constant (k) for urine zinc enrichment after intravenous administration.
- To utilize 'k' for calculating fractional zinc absorption.
- To compare these results with the standard dual isotope method.
Main Methods:
- A single-arm cohort study involving 17 healthy adults.
- Administration of a single intravenous dose of (67)Zn and a single oral dose of (70)Zn.
- Measurement of isotopic enrichment in urine to calculate fractional zinc absorption.
Main Results:
- The constant (k) was estimated at 1.60 mg.
- No significant difference was found in mean fractional zinc absorption between the single-isotope (12.58%) and dual-isotope (12.68%) methods.
- A high correlation (r=0.81) was observed between the two methods.
Conclusions:
- A simplified method using a single oral dose of isotopic-enriched zinc and a constant (k) can effectively estimate fractional zinc absorption.
- This approach may replace the conventional dual isotope method, reducing the need for venipuncture.
- The findings support a more accessible way to assess zinc absorption in populations.