CALCIUM, MAGNESIUM, AND ZINC STATUS IN EXPERIMENTAL HYPOTHYROIDISM

In this study, experimental hypothyroidism was established and used to investigate possible alterations in the calcium, magnesium, and zinc homeostasis by assessing their concentration in plasma and erythrocyte s. Hypothyroidism was induced by administration of methimazole an iodi ne blocker at a dose of 75 mg/100 g food for 3 wk. In the methimazole- induced hypothyroid state, the experimental animals showed a significa nt decrease in plasma zinc concentration, whereas a significant increa se in plasma magnesium concentration occurred. No change was observed in plasma calcium concentration. The erythrocyte zinc and calcium conc entrations were found to be increased, whereas magnesium concentration decreased. Erythrocyte magnesium concentration showed a significant p ositive correlation with T-4 values. The study provides evidence for m arked alterations in homeostatis of zinc, magnesium, and calcium.