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Zinc kinetics in preterm infants: a compartmental model based on stable isotope data
M E Wastney1, P Angelus, R M Barnes
1Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia 20007, USA.
The American Journal of Physiology
|November 1, 1996
Summary
This study quantifies zinc absorption and excretion in preterm infants, revealing crucial insights into their nutritional needs for healthy growth. Understanding zinc kinetics is vital for infant development.
Area of Science:
- * Nutritional Science
- * Pediatric Physiology
- * Tracer Kinetics
Background:
- * Zinc is an essential nutrient for infant growth and development.
- * Limited data exists on zinc kinetics (absorption, distribution, excretion) in preterm infants (< 38-wk gestation).
Purpose of the Study:
- * To investigate and quantify zinc kinetics in preterm infants.
- * To develop a model for assessing zinc requirements during infant growth.
Main Methods:
- * Stable isotope (70Zn) administration (oral or IV) in two preterm infants (32 and 33-wk gestation).
- * Longitudinal sampling (up to 30 days) of plasma, red blood cells (RBC), urine, and feces.
- * Analysis using compartmental modeling (SAAM31) adapted from adult models, incorporating ICP-mass spectrometry and ICP-atomic emission spectrometry.
Main Results:
- * Zinc absorption rates were determined to be 42% and 34%.
- * Endogenous fecal excretion was measured at 15 µg/kg/day.
- * A modified compartmental model successfully fitted preterm infant data, accounting for unique physiological aspects like RBC kinetics.
Conclusions:
- * The developed model allows for the quantification of zinc kinetics in relation to age, weight, and intake in preterm infants.
- * This research provides a foundation for evaluating and optimizing nutritional requirements for preterm infants.
- * Further studies can utilize this model to track changes in zinc metabolism as preterm infants grow.