Changes in vitamin A status following prolonged immobilization (simulated weightlessness)

A study was conducted to investigate the effects of a simulated weightlessness induced by chronic immobilization on vitamin A status. To simulate the stress condition of weightlessness, rats were suspended for 10 days in a special jacket to which metal chains were attached. Animals received a commercial stock diet. Control rats were pair-fed in reference to the suspended rats. As compared with the control, prolonged immobilization resulted in a decrease in body weight gain and an increase in adrenal weight occurred. In the suspended rats, serum concentrations of retinol and retinol-binding protein (RBP) declined. Hepatic retinyl palmitate content increased, and the hepatic retinol level was decreased. The prolonged immobilization led to significantly reduced retinyl palmitate levels in the testis and lung as well as lowered testicular retinol levels. The results suggest that the stress state induced by prolonged immobilization caused accumulation of hepatic retinyl palmitate, decreasing the serum retinol concentration and retinyl ester content in the extrahepatic tissues.