Calcium-binding protein and kidney 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-1-hydroxylase activity in turkey poults

A vitamin D-dependent calcium-binding protein (CaBP) has been found in the intestinal mucosa of turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo). This protein is similar, if not identical, to the corresponding one found in the intestine of the chicken (Gallus domesticus). The concentration of intestinal CaBP in the intestine of cholecalciferol-fed turkey poults was twice that found in the intestine of the domestic chicken of parallel age. Dietary calcium or phosphorus restriction resulted in a significant increase in intestinal CaBP. This increase was less pronounced than that obtained in chickens. The relationship between duodenal CaBP and dietary calcium appears to be linear. Cholecalciferol (vitamin D) deficiency or dietary calcium, but not phosphorus, restriction resulted in an increase of kidney 25 hydroxycholecalciferol-1-hydroxylase activity in vitro. The values of activity obtained in turkeys were higher than those obtained under the same experimental conditions in chicks. Bone ash was reduced by dietary calcium, phosphorus or cholecalciferol restriction. Plasma inorganic phosphorus was lower in either cholecalciferol- or phosphorus-restricted turkeys. Plasma calcium was significantly higher in the phosphorus-restricted turkeys than in the calcium-restricted or control turkeys.