[15N tracer technical studies of protein metabolism in arteriosclerosis patients]

The incorporation of the stable isotope 15N in plasma proteins and blood cells after oral application of 3 g 15NH4Cl (95 At% 15N) per 70 kg body weight was followed up in 11 patients with ischemic heart disease or peripheral arteriosclerosis and in 7 healthy control subjects. Preliminary results indicate that the turnover of plasma protein, especially fibrin, is elevated in patients with arteriosclerosis. Investigations of platelets intimate a decreased turnover of platelet protein in patients with arteriosclerosis as compared to control subjects. Possible reasons for these alterations are discussed.