COPPER-METABOLISM IN RAT - EFFECTS OF COPPER LOADING AND COPPER DEPLETION

Variations of the Cu distributions subsequent to Cu input changes were studied in normal male Wistar rats. A fasting period (48 or 96 h) produces significant variations only in the kidneys. D-Penicillamine administered during the fasting period induces a significant decrease of the Cu content also in the liver. When injected s.c., CuCl2 (1-2 mg/kg body wt) is stored first in the liver and second in the kidneys (24 h after a 2 mg/kg body wt injection, 80% of the Cu is found in the liver and 6% in the kidneys). D-Penicillamine administered s.c. to animals treated with CuCl2 reduces the Cu of the liver to normal values within 6 h. A prominent role of the liver and the kidneys in Cu metabolism is discussed.