[Effect of chronic alcohol administration and of folic acid deficiency on iron absorption]

The influence of chronic alcohol ingestion and artificially induced folic acid deficiency on iron absorption has been measured in rabbits by whole body counter. Results show that chronic alcohol ingestion does not modify iron absorption. Folic acid deficiency increases iron absorption by two probable mechanisms: first by increased plasma iron turnover (PIT), which parallels ineffective erythropoiesis, and second by a probable direct effect on the intestinal mucous membranes. This second mechanism appears to be independent of PIT: concomitant deficiency of folic acid and alcohol ingestion produces an increase in iron absorption without modification of PIT. Experience with drugs inhibiting protein synthesis suggests that this increase may be mediated by decreased protein synthesis.