INFLUENCE OF MAGNESIUM-DEFICIENCY ON CONCENTRATION OF CALCIUM IN SOFT-TISSUE OF UREMIC RATS

The influence of magnesium (Mg) deficiency on the concentration of cal cium (Ca) in the aorta, heart, and kidney was evaluated in uremic rats . A total of 32 rats were randomly assigned to two groups: one group m ade uremic by the 5/6 nephrectomy method, and the other sewing as sham -operated controls. Both groups were randomly assigned to two subgroup s: one group given a Mg-deficient diet and the other fed a Mg-suppleme nted diet. After 12 weeks on the regimen, all animals were sacrificed. In Mg-supplemented uremic rats, the concentration of Ca in the aorta was higher than in Mg-supplemented control rats. The concentration of Ca in the aorta was further increased in Mg-deficient uremic rats. The concentrations of Ca in the heart and the kidney were also increased in Mg-deficient uremic rats, as compared with Mg-supplemented uremic r ats. The concentration of Mg was decreased in the aorta and increased in the kidney of Mg-deficient rats. There was no significant influence of Mg deficiency on the concentration of phosphate in tissue. Results suggest that Mg deficiency in uremia may increase aortic calcificatio n.