[Determination of N metabolism parameters in an N increase trial in the rat using 15N tracers]

3 groups of 8 Wistar rats each of a live weight of ca. 215 g received graded N supplements. A number of N metabolism parameters were ascertained and discussed. Among other things, the protein synthesis and degradation quotas were ascertained by means of the 15N tracer technique. For the assessment a 3-pool model was used, the content of which was in so far extended as growth and metabolic faecal nitrogen are concretely taken into consideration. A quasi-continuous method of supplementing the tracer was chosen; it was discontinued in approximately the middle of the experiment. Thus the labelling and abatement phases in urine could at the same time be included in the calculation. The protein synthesis quota increases with N intake. It can be concluded from the course of the graph that it gravitates towards a saturation value.