BLOOD PLASMA PROTEINS AS INFLUENCED BY INTRAVENOUS INJECTION OF GUM ACACIA : II. PRODUCTION OF CHRONIC...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Physiology

Background:

• Gum acacia (Acacia) is used intravenously.
• Maintaining plasma protein concentration is crucial for physiological functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the long-term effects of repeated gum acacia injections on plasma protein levels in dogs.
• To assess the impact of gum acacia on liver function and plasma volume.
• To determine the suitability of these animals for further dietary studies.

Main Methods:

• Dogs received weekly intravenous injections of gum acacia solution for 4-5 months.
• Plasma protein concentration, total circulating protein, fibrinogen, albumin, globulins, and plasma volume were monitored.
• Dietary intake was not quantitatively controlled during injection periods.

Main Results:

• Plasma protein and total circulating protein levels were maintained at significantly low levels.
• Fibrinogen reduction was disproportionately greater than overall plasma protein changes, indicating potential liver dysfunction.
• Plasma volume initially decreased then increased by 20-25% above basal levels.
• Albumin and globulins were reduced, with globulins showing a greater decrease after single injections.
• These effects persisted for months after injections ceased and were independent of diet.
• Despite low protein levels, dogs maintained good appetite.

Conclusions:

• Repeated gum acacia administration effectively reduces plasma protein concentrations in dogs for prolonged periods.
• Gum acacia administration appears to interfere with liver function, particularly fibrinogen synthesis.
• The observed changes in plasma volume and red cell volume warrant further investigation.
• Dogs treated with gum acacia can serve as models for studying plasma protein production and function under controlled dietary conditions.