Effects of protein restriction and acute refeeding on leucine and lysine kinetics in young men

To explore the effects of altered protein intake on the uptake and utilization of dietary amino acids in human subjects, six healthy male Massachusetts Institute of Technology students were studied during three dietary periods each of 9 days, with tracer infusion studies conducted on days 8 and 9. During one period the diet provided a generous protein intake (1.5 g.kg-1.day-1) and during the other two a low-protein intake (0.1 g.kg-1.day-1). Tracer infusions (fed state) were given while subjects received either a liquid formula, supplying the prior protein intake or (on day 9) a generous intake. Combinations of [2H3]Leu and [13C]Leu and of [15N]Lys and [2H4]Lys were given via continuous intravenous or intragastric infusion for 4 h to estimate leucine kinetics and the first-pass splanchnic uptake of tracer. Dietary-induced changes in leucine flux and oxidation were similar irrespective of the tracer and/or route of administration and sampled pool (leucine or KIC) used for calculation. Estimates of absolute changes in the rates of leucine disappearance via nonoxidative metabolism (protein synthesis) and of appearance via protein breakdown depended on the route of [13C]Leu administration. However, it appears that both altered rates of protein synthesis and breakdown contribute to the adaptations required in the body nitrogen economy when protein intakes are restricted and subsequently resupplied. From the intragastric [13C]Leu protocol, the first-pass splanchnic uptake of tracer was the same (approximately 30%) for generous, low-protein, and refed conditions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)