Failure of Protein to Protect Against Cholesterol Atherogenesis in Underfed Rabbits

Abstract

Summary

1. Study of effect of protein on development of experimental atherosclerosis on blood lipids and lipoproteins, in underfed rabbits with supplementary cholesterol, was performed. 2. Cholesterol fed rabbits on a limited intake of standard laboratory food lost approximately one-fourth of their body weight. A marked degree of atherosclerosis, increased blood lipids and lipoproteins was produced. 3. Cholesterol-fed rabbits on a limited intake of a relatively high protein diet, who lost equivalent amounts of weight, developed approximately the same degree of atherosclerosis, increase in blood lipids and lipoproteins.