Dietary Protein Level and Skeletal Development in the Golden Syrian Hamster 1 2

Abstract

Abstract

The hamster was used as a model for investigating the effect of low, moderate, and high protein intake (12, 18, and 36% casein) on bone mineral content. Animals fed the low level of protein between 3 and 8 months of age had a reduction in the weight of all skeletal components measured, with the exception of the diaphyseal portion of the long bones. Diaphyseal weight and calcium remained significantly lower when expressed as a percentage of body weight. However, urinary calcium excretion was not lower than that of animals consuming an adequate protein intake. Ingesting a high protein diet resulted in a significant increase in urinary calcium excretion, and a reduced amount of both mineral and organic material in the diaphyses. We conclude that long-term consumption of a high protein ration led to the development of a mild osteoporotic condition in the hamster which was limited to the diaphyseal portions of the long bones.