Percutaneous Uptake of Zinc in Rabbit Skin 1

Abstract

Summary

The percutaneous uptake of zinc in rabbits was studied radiochemically and radioautographically using single- and double-dose applications of four different zinc compounds. All compounds were absorbed equally, regardless of their chemical composition. ⁶⁵Zn was optimally located in the keratogenous zone of the hair shaft and in the subcutaneous muscle layer. Histochemical demonstration of zinc and sulfur amino acids was also optimal in the same sites.

There was a depletion of ⁶⁵Zn in the skin radioautographs of animals sacrificed 24 hr after application of a first and a second dose. A rationale for these results is discussed.