Abstract
In a previous communication we showed that cholesterol which has been purified by means of bromination failed to develop antirachitic properties as the result of ultra-violet irradiation. 1 These experiments, as well as some others, led us to question whether it is the cholesterol itself which becomes active or some contaminating substance intimately associated with it.
Recently we have been conducting experiments with a preparation of ergosterol prepared from yeast. Ergosterol is an optically active sterol possessing three double bends and a hydroxyl radical. Its molecule therefore possesses two factors which have been found to be linked with the activation of cholesterol derivatives and allied sterols. 2 The ergosterol was irradiated with the mercury vapor lamp for one-half hour at a distance of one foot, then suspended in linseed oil and fed to rats in varying amounts. It was found to bring about a healing process of the bones when even as little as 0.003 mg. per capita daily was given. In tests in which irradiated cholesterol is fed, it has been found that approximately 1 mg. is needed to initiate healing.
Other experiments will be undertaken to ascertain the relationship of ergosterol to cholesterol and the extent of its distribution in the animal body. This is a complete report.
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