Diurnal changes in the metabolism of calcium and phosphate were studied in fasted
conscious rats by use of a perfusion balance study method. On a light dark 12:12 h
schedule and on a constant iv load of calcium among other nutrients, the animals exhibited
a diurnal rhythm in which urinary excretion of calcium was low in the night and high
in the day. This was accompanied by a reciprocal change in phosphate balance (high
excretion in the night, and low in the day). The diurnal change was abolished by adrenalectomy.
Thyroparathyroidectomy alone did not prevent the diurnal change. It was abolished,
however, when thyroparathyroidectomy was followed by a constant infusion of parathyroid
hormone(0.8 U/h). These data indicate the presence of a diurnal rhythm of calcium
and phosphate metabolism in rats and the involvement of parathyroid and adrenal hormones
in the genesis of the rhythms.
Urinary Calcium and Phosphate Excretion
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Diurnal Rhythm
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Conscious Rats
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Adrenal and Parathyroid Hormones