Effect of short-term protein deprivation on hemopoietic functions of
healthy volunteers
R Catchatourian, G Eckerling and W Fried
To ascertain the effects of protein deprivation on hemopoietic parameters
in otherwise healthy subjects, three volunteers were placed on diets
containing 0.15 g protein/kg body weight for 8 days followed in 2 mo by
another 8-day study period during which they ingested their usual diets
containing more than 0.9 g protein/kg body weight. Complete blood counts,
serum protein determinations, and tests of in vitro and in vivo leukocyte
chemotaxis were performed prior to and at the conclusion of each study
period. Subjects were phlebotomized of 500 ml on day 7 of each study
period. Twenty-four-hour urinary erythropoietin excretion rates were
assayed just prior to and again postphlebotomy. Reticulocyte counts were
performed at intervals up to 1 wk postphlebotomy. Some of these
determinations were replicated during a subsequent study. The hemoglobin
and hematocrits decrased slightly but significantly after 8 days on low
protein diets. Erythropoietin excretion rates and reticulocyte responses to
phlebotomy were also less marked while subjects were on protein depleted
diets. Leukocyte chemotaxis, measured both in vitro and in vivo, was also
markedly reduced while subjects were on protein-depleted diets. We conclude
that 8 days of moderately severe protein deprivation significantly impairs
erythropoiesis and leukocyte function in otherwise healthy individuals.
Volume 55,
Issue 4,
pp. 625-628,
04/01/1980
Copyright © 1980 by The American Society of Hematology
